Part of the Electrify Barrie Program and the City’s commitment to net-zero by 2050
(Barrie, ON) – As part of the City’s Electrify Barrie Program, all City recreation/community centres are transitioning to electric ice resurfacers this winter – another step toward becoming a low-carbon, net-zero community by 2050.
These zero-emission machines with cold water flooding replace traditional gas-powered units, keeping ice surfaces smooth while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The electric machines also operate quietly, reducing ambient noise for participants and spectators, and feature safety and efficiency upgrades such as quick two-hour recharges, boltless blade changes, on-board diagnostics, seat sensors for emergency shut off, and improved operator comfort.
“These new ice resurfacers provide an opportunity to modernize our arenas while improving efficiency and reducing long-term operating costs,” said Mayor Alex Nuttall. “This approach helps ensure City facilities remain well maintained and cost-effective for residents.”
Following a successful 2022-2023 pilot, which replaced two gas units with electric ones, the City is now adding eight additional electric ice resurfacers with cold water flooding capabilities to replace the remaining gas units. The 10 electric ice resurfacers eliminate approximately 70 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually and saves approximately $25,000 in annual energy costs. The annual energy reduction for the 10 ice resurfacers is 440,000kwh, or enough to power 16 typical Barrie households for a year. The City expects maintenance cost to be reduced by up to 40% or a reduction of $20,000 in annual maintenance costs.
For more information on the Electrify Barrie Program and the City’s fleet electrification projects, visit barrie.ca/ElectrifyBarrie.
