OUT OF OFFICE…

Innovative Low-Carbon Business Park to Address Retail and Commercial Needs in Columbia Valley

A new initiative aimed at addressing the need for additional retail, office, and commercial facilities in the Columbia Valley has been launched by the Light House Development Co-op. The group consists of 7 companies that recognize the need to create sustainable solutions for businesses in the area. The result of their efforts is the Columbia Valley Low-Carbon Business Park, a model for a sustainable business park powered entirely by renewable energy sources.

The business park will feature a mix of retail, office, and commercial facilities (staff housing is being considered too) connected within a microgrid powered by wind and solar energy, with low-energy and low-carbon products such as LED lighting and heat pumps. The park will also utilize hydrogen for back-up energy storage and Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) fuel sources, and will provide combined heat and power through electrolysis.

Phase 1 of the project, which includes the construction of the first round of facilities, will take place over the next 24 months. These facilities aim to meet Step 5 building code standards. In phase 2, the park will generate additional electricity on-site to establish electric and hydrogen fueling stations for zero-emission vehicles. These zero-emission fuels will be available to tenants to help them transition to zero-emission fleets and low or net-neutral carbon operations. Phase 3 of the project will open additional electric and hydrogen vehicle fuelling stations to the general public.

Businesses in need of new or expanded facilities are encouraged to complete a survey by March 15th. The Lighthouse Development Co-op will then contact survey respondents in April to discuss further details of the Columbia Valley Low-Carbon Business Park. The initiative represents a new path towards sustainability and equity in the Columbia Valley.

To participate in the survey please visit: www.kootenaysolar. com/facilities