Fourteen projects target sustainability and energy efficiency with Trust support

Community-purpose buildings in 12 communities will be more sustainable, safer, and energy-efficient for Basin residents. The energy retrofits and repairs are made possible with $1.2 million in support from Columbia Basin Trust.

“Basin residents have told us that climate resiliency and community well-being are important to them,” said Mark Brunton, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “These projects increase energy efficiency and sustainability in buildings used by the community, which in turn helps non-profit organizations and First Nations meet local needs.”

The projects focus on building improvements that aim to conserve or generate energy, such as adding LED lighting, insulation or solar systems, repairs that extend the useful life of buildings such as repairing building envelopes or foundation repair, and improve health and safety, such as improving ventilation systems or fire exits.

Here are a few of the recipients (see full list below)…

ʔaq̓am

ʔaq̓am is improving its language and cultural centre by adding insulation to the crawlspace and exterior walls; and replacing doors, windows and siding.

“This work will improve the energy-efficiency of our facilities in line with the ʔaq̓am community strategic plan—kniⱡwi·tiyaⱡa—specifically in line with the ȼmak̓qapmuⱡ energy goal: Live in ways that conserve energy,” said Michelle Shortridge, Director of Operations and Community Services.

Salmo Community Resource Society

The Salmo Community Resource Society is improving its programs and office building by adding LED lighting and occupancy sensors; replacing the metal roof and exit stairway; replacing the air conditioner with a high efficiency unit; adding attic insulation; and repairing the cracked foundation.

“We appreciate the Trust’s support as we upgrade our 311 Railway office,” said Maureen Berk, Executive Director. “We moved into the space in 2005 and the years have taken a toll and upgrades are necessary. As well as making the building more sustainable and providing a level of comfort, the improvements will enhance safety and reduce costs.”

Community Connections (Revelstoke) Society

The Community Connections (Revelstoke) Society is improving the building that houses its office by adding LED lighting and occupancy sensors; replacing the roof and rooftop heating, high efficiency ventilation and air conditioning units; adding solar panels; and repairing a crack in the building’s façade.

“The Community Connections (Revelstoke) Society has been able to realize exciting and essential upgrades to our program and administrative office while prioritizing environmental efficiency,” said Sheena Wells, Executive Director.

“The Trust program enables us to integrate improvements that would be out of reach for us and allows our organizational dollars to go further to serve our community.”

To view the recently approved projects, visit ourtrust.org/building-support.

Columbia Basin Trust supports the ideas and efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin. To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, and how it helps deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the Basin, visit ourtrust.org or call 1-800-505-8998.

Lead image: ʔaq̓am will carry out energy retrofits and repairs on its language and cultural centre with support from the Trust. Columbia Basin Trust photos

Columbia Basin Trust

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