Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia

Client: Nova Scotia Power Inc.

Architect: WZMH Architects

Certifications: LEED Canada-NC Platinum (First in Atlantic Canada)

Size: 195,000 sq. ft.

Project Budget: $46M

The overall project goal for the new NSPI head office, was to adaptively reuse the former Water Street Generating Station as the new Corporate Headquarters in the most sustainable and energy efficient manner possible. LEED Platinum was selected as the project sustainability goal to actively demonstrate to the public a corporate commitment to conserve resources and operate with a low Carbon Footprint. 

M&R Engineering was responsible for mechanical design including HVAC, Plumbing and Fire Protection as well as electrical design including Lighting, Power, Communications, Fire Alarm and Security.

Key facts:

• Water-to-water heat pumps use Halifax Harbour as a heat source and sink to provide space heating and cooling

• Chilled beams cool the space reducing energy use compared to VAV systems.

• Space heating is provided by low temperature baseboard heaters rather than through an air based system increasing thermal comfort.

• Ventilation air provided by dedicated outdoor air systems equipped with energy recovery wheels

• Pumps and fans are equipped with variable frequency drives to reduce electricity use.

• A rainwater cistern supplies water to water closets and urinals

• Occupancy and daylight sensors control lighting

• Energy modeling indicates over 55% energy cost savings compared to a building built to meet the energy code