Hillcrest Elementary in Salmon Arm will be able to proceed with a heating system upgrade thanks to $505,000 contribution of taxpayer dollars from the B.C. government.
The money is being put towards the installation of a ground-source heat pump.
It is estimated the system will save 58 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year, and reduce energy costs by $12,400 per year.
Armstrong’s Pleasant Valley Secondary is also receiving funding from the province – $140,000 for a control system upgrade, including CO2 sensors, which is also expected to improve energy efficiency.
Work is expected to begin this year and be completed by spring 2016.
“These upgrades will greatly improve the infrastructure and operating efficiency of Hillcrest and Pleasant Valley schools,” Shuswap MLA Greg Kyllo said. “Our government is committed to providing safe, comfortable learning environments, and I’m pleased that we are delivering these improvements to Salmon Arm and Armstrong.”
These projects were approved under the province’s routine capital program.
Projects were chosen based on need, priority and supporting student learning.