Low-Carbon District Energy System (LCDES)
The Low-Carbon District Energy System (LCDES) project is entering its final stretch. We anticipate the system will be turned on September 1, when commissioning of all building tie-ins begins so everything works seamlessly. Here is what to expect on campus in the coming weeks.
Accessibility
We recognize that construction has made navigating campus more challenging at times. Safety and accessibility remain our top priorities, and crews continue to adjust pedestrian routes, signage, and barriers to maintain safe and accessible pathways wherever possible. Thank you for your patience and feedback as this work continues.
Construction timeline and key impacts
TRU is laying groundwork for its clean-energy system, with pipe installation and retrofits taking place. As part of this work, the following construction activities are underway or scheduled. Please follow onsite signage and allow extra time to navigate areas safely.
Work continues on the Sustainability Powerhouse, an integral part of the LCDES system.
What to expect on campus in the coming weeks
Work in campus buildings
Old Library Administration and Research Annex Hub and Clock Tower Theatre
Remaining mechanical work is ongoing. The theatre is closed for the duration of this work until the middle of August. All work is contained within the designated construction areas, and notices will be posted locally.
Administrative Building, International Building, Old Main and House of Learning
Work continues in the mechanical rooms. No impact to the public is expected.
Gymnasium
The contractor, PCL, will occupy half of the gym at various times during the week of August 10–14 to complete the remaining mechanical work. Please watch for posted notices about gym access during that week.
Fire alarm and lighting
Base-building fire alarm verification and lighting commissioning are scheduled for this week.
Outdoor work - please stay off the grass
Irrigation work will begin in the coming weeks. Please follow the posted signs on grassy areas and stay off the grass so the new irrigation and landscaping can be completed with the best possible outcome.
Thank you for your patience while we restore these areas.
Sustainability Powerhouse
Regular work continues on the new building within the site boundary, including mechanical and electrical finishes.
In the coming months, our Sustainability team will move into the offices in the new building.
What this means for you
Aside from the gym schedule during the week of August 10–14 and temporary signage on grassy areas, no disruptions to campus activities are expected.
Construction areas are clearly marked. Please respect all fencing and signage.
Watch this page for updates as we count down to the September 1 system start-up.
Stay informed
Visit this page regularly for updates, closure notifications and progress reports. For inquiries or feedback, email us at zerocarbon@tru.ca.
Thank you for your patience as we enhance our campus. Please note that work and impact dates are subject to change.
TRU's bold journey to zero carbon
TRU is on the brink of a monumental achievement—progressing toward our ambitious goal of zero carbon! How? Together with our partners, Creative Energy, known for innovative district energy solutions, and BC Hydro, we are building a cutting-edge Low-Carbon District Energy System (LCDES) on our Kamloops campus.
The LCDES is the most ambitious energy project in TRU’s history and replaces our old natural gas boilers with a sustainable electrical heating source, making our campus greener than ever by offsetting over 100,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions over the next 30 years—this is like planting a 4,000-acre forest, a space 16 times larger than our own campus.
TRU will be one of the first universities in North America to hit zero carbon.
With the LCDES, TRU continues to demonstrate our commitment toward building a greener future and as a leader in what true sustainability looks like.
Starting in fall 2024
Get ready for the future!
The building of LCDES will be starting in fall 2024 and includes the construction of the Sustainability Powerhouse, a marvel of modern engineering located in the heart of the Kamloops campus.
Half of this building will be an energy plant and serve as a "living lab," showcasing cutting-edge electrically powered air-source and water-source heat pumps along with backup natural gas boilers. Heat will be generated here and pushed throughout the campus in underground pipes to 13 existing buildings: Arts and Education, Administrative Services Building, Campus Activity Centre, Clock Tower, Culinary Arts Training Centre, Brown Family House of Learning, Indigenous Education Centre, International Building, Ken Lepin Science and Health Sciences Building, North Tower Residence, Old Library Administration and Research Annex (OLARA), Old Main and TRU Gymnasium.
The other half of the Powerhouse will host the new offices of the award-winning TRU Sustainability Office.
See below to learn more about milestones and construction updates.
View MilestonesPowering up with strong partnerships
Our sustainability journey is powered by remarkable partnerships.
Creative Energy and BC Hydro have been instrumental in pushing this clean energy initiative forward. Together, we’re making a real difference.
Cutting-edge heating solutions
The Sustainability Powerhouse will be a marvel of modern engineering.
The Sustainability Powerhouse will feature air-source and water-source heat pumps that provide a renewable energy heating source. Natural gas boilers will be on standby for backup, ensuring resilience and uninterrupted operations. An underground closed-loop distribution system will weave through the campus, connecting buildings to the LCDES and allowing us to retire our old boilers.
Expansion potential: building a greener tomorrow
But we’re not stopping there.
A second phase of the LCDES has been proposed to connect an additional five buildings and further decarbonize campus spaces. In the future, new TRU buildings and nearby City of Kamloops buildings, like the Tournament Capital Centre and the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, along with buildings in The Reach development on campus, could also connect to the system. Additional low-carbon generation capacity and thermal energy storage can be added to the LCDES, providing renewable infrastructure for future growth.
FAQ's
When will major construction begin?
Site preparation for the LCDES Sustainability Powerhouse near Old Main will begin on Mar. 18, followed by excavation and deep civil work starting Mar. 24.
Will parking be impacted?
Yes, throughout the project, some parking areas will be temporarily closed. Detours and alternate parking options will be provided. Any affected permit holders will be informed in advance of any closures and alternative parking options.
Who can I contact with questions?
For inquiries or feedback, email us at carbonneutral@tru.ca.
Be a Hero for Zero
Support a zero-carbon future with a donation and have your name honoured in the Sustainability Powerhouse.
Milestones on our journey
2021
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Engaged in public consultation on the LCDES.
2023
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Received approval for the first phase from the BC Utilities Commission.
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Conducted public consultation on the proposed second phase.
2024
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Breaking ground on construction in fall 2024.
2030
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Once the project is complete, emissions (from heating buildings using natural gas) will be reduced by 95% compared to 2020 levels.
Stay tuned for project updates and progress
Stay tuned for construction updates and more information about the LCDES project. This major initiative will significantly reduce our environmental impact and set the stage for a sustainable tomorrow.
Any questions, email zerocarbon@tru.ca.
