Monday, January 10, 2011

Rotorua Aquatic Center - Rotorua, New Zealand



We went on our way to Rotorua and we were able to see New Zealand's country side.
The UTA Mavericks strolled together to visit the sustainable Aquatic Center.
We were given a tour by a cheerful manager as soon as we got there.

The Rotorua Aquatic Centre is the first swimming facility in New Zealand to achieve Qualmark’s prestigious Enviro-Gold Award, which recognises the country’s highest standards in environmental practice.

All heating of the pool water and hot water is provided through geothermal energy. Out back behind the property are the metal pipes that are connected to the hot springs that provide the geothermal energy. The financial benefit is that there are very little or no heating costs. However, there are energy costs for pumping, ventilation and lighting. The energy savings initiatives include the following:
Reducing pump speed at night and controlling level
Shutting down domestic hot water pump at night
Shutting down Amenities / Change extract fans and ensuring Pool Hall fans go to slow speed at night
Control Pool Hall lights on daylight sensor and Main Entry Canopy Lights on daylight control
1st Floor, Cardio Gym and Staff Room lights on occupancy / light sensor
Main Plant room and Outdoor Plant room Metering Room light

It was a great idea for the Aquatic Center to have used it's local resources (hot springs) in efforts to increase it's sustainability.

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