Feature Project - Calgary Zoo's Enmax Conservatory

Home to 2,500 animals and 4,000 plants, the Calgary Zoo is committed also to educating about carbon footprints. Since its foundation in 1929, the Zoo has been committed to the highest standards of animal care. In 2009, the Zoo launched a new mission statement: engage -visitors in enjoyable and unique experiences, connect- our community with nature, inspire- actions which support conservation.

This mission statement rings true through the Zoo's ENMAX Conservatory. Reopening in 2009 after a year of construction, the ENMAX Conservatory has become the site of many special events, and its new environmentally friendly design showcasing alternative energy technologies, which will influence the thinking of future generations. The greenhouse was built to meet LEED Gold certification and is highly efficient in incorporating alternative energy from five alternative energy technologies:

1kW WhisperGenTM combined heat and power system based on core Stirling technology

Two 4.3kW solar photovoltaic cells

2.4 kW Wind turbine

Evacuated tube solar domestic hot water heating

Open geothermal well water system (1 production well / 2 injection wells) used to add or remove heat from the indoor condenser loop servicing Water Source Heat Pumps (6 total) used for cooling and heating. They add heat to the geothermal ground water in the summer for cooling and remove heat from the geothermal ground water in the winter for heating.

The total power generated by these technologies is captured in the building grid and reduces the need for conventional gas and electrical systems.

The Calgary Zoo continues to grow and evolve responding to grow and evolve responding to the changing needs of species conservation while always striving to provide an enjoyable experience for its many visitors.