December 21, 2012 (Edmonton, Alta.) – The executive director of Métis Capital Housing Corporation (MCHC), which is developing the new 90-unit seniors-friendly and barrier-free complex, said: "This new home for seniors and disabled residents in the heart of our city is a key part of the Quarters redevelopment and we are excited to announce this complex is being officially named Renaissance Tower."
The affordable housing complex is set to welcome Métis, Aboriginal, seniors and disabled residents in November 2013. Now four storeys, the complex on 95 Street between 104 Avenue and 105 Avenue, will rise to seven storeys when completed.
“Construction is on track and the workmanship on the building is outstanding.” “Once it has reached its full height of seven storeys, it will be ready for the installation of the high-efficiency co-generation heat and power system, which is scheduled for March.”
The co-generation system is part of Edmonton’s first “district energy” application, which allows multiple buildings to share hot water produced from the waste heat from an electrical generation facility. This approach is more efficient, reducing operating costs and green-house gas (GHG) emissions.
This system, made possible by working with ENMAX Energy, is estimated to reduce GHG emissions by 7,500 tonnes over the 30-year life of the system – the equivalent of removing 2,884 cars from the road.
“The system is approximately 20 to 25 per cent more efficient than standard boiler systems and is able to reduce GHG emissions by generating electricity while simultaneously re-using waste heat normally emitted into the air,” said ENMAX Vice-President, Adrian Begley.
"The City is proud to support this landmark project in two ways: through the Cornerstones program, and also through our efforts to identify sustainable energy solutions," said Mayor Stephen Mandel. "This innovative project is an example of how we can address the need for housing while helping our city grow in a more sustainable way."
Our approach is to build quality and environmentally progressive affordable housing because it’s a better long-term investment than building to minimum standards, Renaissance Tower is a model for future affordable housing developments in Edmonton, and providing these kinds of quality homes also instills a greater sense of pride among residents.
Other features include:
For more information about the building’s features, funding and project partners, see our Renaissance Tower brochure.
RenaissanceTower CHP video.