The recent opening of the Stanley Business Centre has marked the introduction of Manitoba’s first district geothermal system that exclusively serves office buildings.

“Manitoba continues to be a leader in geothermal technology, installing systems at nearly three times the national per capita average and featuring some of the largest, most innovative systems in Canada,” says Innovation, Energy and Mines Minister, Dave Chomiak.

Located between the cities of Winkler and Morden, the new business centre houses the offices of the Rural Municipality of Stanley, Access Credit Union’s corporate office and BDO Canada, all of which are served by the district geothermal system.

The Stanley Business Centre geothermal project was supported by the Manitoba Geothermal Energy Incentive Program, which assists home and building owners that want to invest in geothermal technology. The centre received a grant of more than $76,000 through the program.

“Our geothermal system has multiple benefits, offering environmentally friendly, sustainable heating and cooling, while achieving savings in operating costs,” says project manager, Hank Hildebrand.

To date, more than 11,000 geothermal heat pump units have been installed in office and manufacturing buildings, condominiums, highrise apartments, local Hutterite colonies and private homes in the province.