The City of Kingston has acquired three electric ice resurfacers, which will be situated at Springer Market Square, Leon’s Centre, and the Memorial Centre. With these new machines, the City is nearly halfway to its goal of replacing all 12 propane-powered machines with zero-emission electric ones.
The Memorial Centre machine is currently in operation, with the ones at Leon’s Centre and Springer Market Square to begin operating later this season. Each battery-powered machine will eliminate around 17 to 19 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. In 2021, the City received its first two electric resurfacers, which are currently in operation at the INVISTA Centre.
The machines were purchased from Zamboni Ltd. and come equipped with the Zamboni-Connect onboard communication system, which allows for improved analytics. The system provides real-time information on charging events, battery charge, maintenance and diagnostic alerts, performance, and other operating metrics.
“These battery-powered electric ice resurfacers are expected to reduce fuel-related costs by 80% and maintenance costs by up to 35%,” says Brent Fowler, Director of Corporate Asset Management & Fleet. “In addition to these cost reductions, we will also have access to improved operational and maintenance data while providing an overall enriched operator experience, with Zamboni providing valuable ongoing training opportunities for staff.”
Replacing gas-powered machines aligns with the City’s Climate Leadership Plan and its goal of achieving greenhouse gas reduction targets. The initiative was identified as part of this strategic priority during Council’s 2019-22 term.
“We are excited and proud to now have five electric ice resurfacers in our fleet, which will have several benefits for community members and the environment. Thank you to our colleagues in Asset Management & Fleet Services for demonstrating strong leadership and commitment to climate change action,” says Lacricia Turner, Director of Recreation & Leisure Services.
Submitted photo (City of Kingston):
A new zero-emission electric Zamboni at the Memorial Centre is one of three hitting the ice in Kingston this season
