In its bold commitment to combat climate change and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, the City of Brampton has taken a significant step by designating the Susan Fennell Sportsplex as its first zero-carbon facility. This decision comes at a pivotal moment, as much of the equipment within the facility was nearing the end of its useful life. Embracing the provincial and federal greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets of 30% by 2030 and 80% by 2050, Brampton is meeting the challenge and transforming the Susan Fennell Sportsplex into a model of sustainability and a future-focused city.

To achieve results, the City of Brampton partnered with Johnson Controls to craft an innovative engineering design, harness creative financing solutions, and engage in strategic relationship building to unite various local stakeholders. Together, we achieved an impressive 100% reduction in on-site GHG emissions. With flawless execution of this landmark project, the City not only sets a precedent for future initiatives in Brampton but also paves the way for similar endeavors in surrounding communities.

The City of Brampton Collaborates with Johnson Controls on Susan Fennell Sportsplex as their Zero Carbon Strategy Pilot

As Canada’s 9th most populated city, the City of Brampton desires to be a leader in city revitalization planning throughout Canada. Brampton officials strive to be a model in their community by aggressively decarbonizing their City-owned facilities. To accomplish this mission, the City of Brampton announced a 2040 plan for a Zero Carbon Transition for the City, with a focus on sustainability, livability, diversity, and health. To launch their initiative, they tasked Johnson Controls with their first major transformational growth project that pivots from traditional energy savings performance contracting to a net zero program based on greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction instead of payback dollars. The City chose as their pilot project their main community centre, the Susan Fennell Sportsplex. A cornerstone of the community, the Sportsplex houses four ice hockey rinks; a 25-meter, 6-lane pool; fitness centre; community meeting rooms; and a library. Johnson Controls developed a solution that provides 100% GHG reduction and meets the approved target. The Johnson Controls team identified 19 energy conservation measures (ECMs) to achieve the City of Brampton’s goal to make the Susan Fennell Sportsplex net zero. After a thorough facilities assessment, the key ECMs focused on rooftop solar PV, a ground source heat loop, ice rink chiller replacement, solar thermal pool heating, LED retrofits, and various HVAC upgrades. The ice rinks will employ new, first-of-their-kind indoor CO2 chillers. To keep the project on schedule, the program management team navigated multiple subtrades and ensured the accuracy of deliverables.

In addition to the ultimate goal of carbon neutrality, the team needed to solve challenges the City faced in operations, community relations, climate change leadership, and future proofing. Of utmost importance operationally, the plan needed to address major building systems at the end of their useful life, reduce equipment failure, improve thermal comfort for facility users, and generate lifecycle cost savings to fund ongoing maintenance of building systems. The Johnson Controls team was also tasked with a goal to help demonstrate the City’s commitment toward climate change leadership and ensure their facilities are prepared for emerging codes, legislation, carbon pricing, and higher performance building standards.

Background

The City of Brampton stands at a critical juncture as they confront a range of pressing social issues that impact the well-being of their community. As part of the Peel Region, they are grappling with a housing affordability crisis, where only 19% of the need for affordable housing is being met. This shortage contributes significantly to homelessness, leaving vulnerable individuals and families without stable shelter. Brampton is also facing a mental health crisis exacerbated by economic challenges such as job insecurity and the high cost of living, which further strain the mental well-being of its residents. In addition, the City is battling a drug toxicity crisis, with fentanyl being a major factor in the alarming rise of opioid-related deaths in recent years. In its commitment to fostering an equitable community, Brampton is actively working to eradicate systemic anti-Black racism and ensure safety for all residents through its Community Safety Action Plan.

As they navigate these complex challenges, Brampton is also dedicated to addressing the impacts of climate change, recognizing that a healthy environment is essential to a thriving community. They are actively focused on creating a supportive, inclusive, and safe city where every resident can flourish. Collective efforts will pave the way for a brighter future for all Brampton residents.

One piece of The City of Brampton’s aggressive agenda to positively change the course of their community is a transformative strategy aimed at revitalizing older community centres, guided by the insights and recommendations of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan (PRMP). This comprehensive plan is the result of 18 months of extensive consultations with the public, stakeholders, partnering agencies, City Council, and dedicated staff, ensuring that every voice has been heard in shaping the future of Brampton’s recreational facilities.

Brampton’s renewal strategy focuses on creating vibrant spaces that offer one-stop convenience for residents, featuring flexible, multi-use, and multi-generational facilities that cater to the diverse needs of the community. By embracing youth-friendly, age-friendly, and sport-friendly design principles, Brampton aims to foster an inclusive environment that encourages participation from all ages. Additionally, the plan addresses the growing demand for gymnasiums and large multi-purpose halls, ensuring that every corner of Brampton has access to high-quality recreational opportunities.

“Investing in deep retrofits to reduce emissions and build more efficient infrastructure is a critical way we can fight climate change and support cleaner communities. These retrofits will result in significant cost savings for the municipality as well as providing a state-of-the-art net zero facility that residents and families can enjoy.” - The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

Economic Factors

The City of Brampton faces significant economic challenges, including poverty, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and rising inflation. In 2020, 15.4% of residents were classified as low income, and many households struggled to meet basic needs during the pandemic. Additionally, inflation and supply chain issues have further strained its economy.

Despite these hurdles, Brampton has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth. The City’s rapid expansion has presented opportunities in healthcare, infrastructure, and affordable housing. It has also attracted jobs and investment, fueling a thriving construction and development sector. Their economic development strategy targets high-growth areas, such as advanced manufacturing, health and life sciences, and technology innovation.

Furthermore, the arts, culture, and tourism sectors play a vital role in enhancing Brampton's identity and driving economic progress. The Economic Development Office’s annual report showcases Brampton’s resilient economy and highlights investments in high-quality jobs, underscoring their commitment to fostering a prosperous future for all residents.

Addressing the needs of its citizens, the Susan Fennell Sportsplex overhaul will be a showplace for community pride, engagement, and gatherings. The project brings jobs into the city and addresses environmental issues to support healthier and cleaner living. For the Sportsplex, the outcome is a 91% reduction of GHG emissions from the 2010 baseline, with an additional 9 percent GHG reduction from carbon credits. Additionally, a 99% reduction in the use of natural gas spurred by a conversion to a fully electric system brings an annual utility cost reduction of $195,000. The monies from the cost savings can be distributed to other worthy and necessary programs within the City.

Political or Governance Issues

The City of Brampton is actively addressing important political challenges with a positive outlook for the future. With a growing population, the City is committed to enhancing its housing stock through innovative policies aimed at increasing affordable housing options. Efforts are under way to secure fair transit funding, ensuring that residents enjoy improved regional connectivity and community building. Brampton proudly supports newcomers, providing a welcoming environment and opportunities for all to thrive while collaborating with government partners to combat immigration fraud. The City is also focused on fostering innovation by seeking federal investment in an innovative district and is dedicated to tackling climate change and enhancing community safety.

Through strategic funding from federal and provincial governments, along with local revenue sources, Brampton is well-equipped to meet these challenges head-on, paving the way for a vibrant and sustainable future for all its residents. Specifically due to the Susan Fennell Sportsplex, the City secured grants and other finance funds from non-traditional sources. The Johnson Controls team aided the City in applying to secure funds from the CICB Grant and Canadian Federal Government Grant programs. The City received $15.3M in funds. Next, the team coordinated the paperwork necessary for the City to receive $10M in funding from Federation of Canadian Municipalities Green Municipal Funds Community Building Retrofit Program. Funding includes a $2.5 million grant and a $7.5 million loan. Finally, the Johnson Controls team spent significant time navigating the City’s procurement processes with City personnel and educated the board and the City’s decision makers on how an “as a service” model works and its benefits to the City.

Projects Highlights

The Susan Fennell Sportsplex encompasses a spacious 1,612 square meters and features an impressive array of facilities designed to enhance community engagement and promote active living. Among its standout amenities are four ice hockey rinks, providing ample opportunities for sports enthusiasts of all ages. The facility also boasts a 25-meter, 6-lane pool, perfect for both competitive training and recreational swimming. Additionally, a state-of-the-art fitness centre caters to health and wellness needs, while community meeting rooms offer versatile spaces for gatherings and events. To further enrich the community experience, a library is included, serving as a hub for knowledge and learning. Collectively, these outcomes create a vibrant centre that fosters community interaction, supports physical fitness, and encourages lifelong learning.

Community Involvement

On the community relations front, the team developed a plan to assist the City in developing broader educational programs, increasing engagement and awareness regarding zero carbon technologies, and stressing the importance of reducing GHG emissions. The Johnson Controls team created a tracking program that encouraged the entire community to do their part to support the community wide GHG reduction targets. Another community initiative involved promoting pride in the City’s first zero-carbon recreation centre and achieving formal recognition by the Canada Green Building Council.

Lessons Learned

Ambitious Emission Goals: The City of Brampton has committed to ambitious greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets of 30% by 2030 and 80% by 2050, aligning with provincial and federal objectives.

Zero Carbon Transition: Announced in 2019, Brampton's Zero Carbon Transition plan aims for a sustainable future by 2040, focusing on sustainability, livability, diversity, and health.

Strategic Project Selection: The City has commissioned five GHG reduction studies, selecting the Susan Fennell Sportsplex for a Zero Carbon Retrofit, which will serve as a pilot project for transitioning City-owned facilities to zero carbon.

Exemplary Model: The retrofit project is intended to be a model for municipalities across Canada, showcasing effective strategies for decarbonization.

Significant GHG Reductions: The project aims for a 100% reduction in GHG emissions, with a 91% decrease from the 2010 baseline and an additional 9% from carbon offsets.

Economic Benefits: Anticipated benefits include approximately $195,000 in utility cost savings, a 99% reduction in natural gas usage, and a substantial grant of $15,743,000 from the Canadian Federal Government through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program.

Comprehensive Facility Features: The 173,546-square-foot facility will include four ice rinks; a 25-meter, 6-lane pool; a library; youth hub; meeting spaces; and a fitness centre, enhancing community engagement and wellness.

These initiatives reflect Brampton’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, positioning the City as a leader in environmental stewardship and community development.

Recommendations

The City of Brampton needs to remain bold and follow their current initiatives and plans to bring to life their vision of a vibrant, age-friendly community that thrives on inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation. As a leader in smart city development, Brampton needs to continue to be committed to creating well-designed outdoor spaces and public buildings, enhancing a renowned transit system that is accessible and affordable, and ensuring diverse housing options for all residents. With a declared climate emergency and a bold target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050, the City needs to continue to prioritize sustainable energy initiatives and environmental stewardship.

By executing on their 2040 plan, Brampton will be a connected mosaic of thriving neighborhoods, where electric vehicles and public transit powered by clean energy are the norm. The City will embrace green technology, with extensive electric vehicle charging stations, solar panels, and geothermal energy systems integrated into City facilities. Their urban landscape will feature revitalized districts, vibrant arts hubs, and lush green spaces, fostering community engagement and health.

Through the Brampton 2040 Vision: Living the Mosaic, the City will cultivate economic opportunities within their neighborhoods, support local arts and culture, and create a beautiful, interconnected environment for all. With strong local organizations and a commitment to collaboration, Brampton will harness the power of its community to tackle challenges, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for generations to come. They will create a city that is not only a place to live but a place to thrive.

The City of Brampton is taking decisive action to meet its greenhouse gas emission reduction targets of 30% by 2030 and 80% by 2050. As part of its Zero Carbon Transition plan, announced in 2019, the City is focusing on sustainability and health while addressing livability and diversity. A key initiative includes the selection of the Susan Fennell Sportsplex for a Zero Carbon Retrofit, in partnership with Johnson Controls. This pilot project aims for a 100% GHG reduction, achieving a 91% decrease from the 2010 baseline and a 9% reduction through Renewable Energy Credits (RECs).

In addition, the project is expected to yield significant economic benefits, including approximately $195,000 in utility savings and a 99% reduction in natural gas usage, alongside an anticipated federal grant of $15,743,000. The revamped facility will enhance community well-being, featuring ice rinks; a 25-meter, 6-lane pool; a library; and more — setting a benchmark for municipalities across Canada in the transition to zero carbon operations.

“The energy transition is under way in communities across Canada, and the City of Brampton is committed to doing its part to create a cleaner, more sustainable future for everyone to enjoy. We are thrilled to receive this $10 million investment from the Government of Canada and FCM. The upgrades to Susan Fennell Sportsplex are another step toward meeting our net-zero goals while ensuring this facility is prepared to serve Bramptonians for generations to come.” - Patrick Brown, Mayor of the City of Brampton.

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References

Burns, Joe. (2024, March 22). Dive Brief: Johnson Controls starts net-zero retrofit pilot in Brampton, Ontario. Facilities Dive. Retrieved on February 24, 2025 from https://www.facilitiesdive.com/news/johnson-controls-pilot-brampton-sports-center-renovations-energy-efficiency-upgrades/711134/

The B Hive. (n.d.). Brampton’s smart city initiative: harnessing technology for a better future. BHIVE.com. Retrieved on February 24, 2025 from https://thebhive.ca/bramptons-smart-city-initiatives-harnessing-technology-for-a-better-future/#:~:text=Its%20sustainable%20energy%20initiatives%20lie,Trees%20Program%20(by%202040).

The City of Brampton. (2024). City of Brampton 2024 Association of Municipalities of Ontario Conference: Building a better Brampton. Brampton.com. Retrieved on February 2025 from https://thebhive.ca/bramptons-smart-city-initiatives-harnessing-technology-for-a-better-future/#:~:text=Its%20sustainable%20energy%20initiatives%20lie,Trees%20Program%20(by%202040).

The City of Brampton. (n.d.). Recreation revitalized. Brampton.com. Retrieved on February 2025 from https://www.brampton.ca/EN/Residents/Recreation/Revitalized/