Reservoir No.1 & Energy Recovery Facility (Associated Engineering)

Detailed design of a 14 ML, circular reinforced concrete reservoir. The project includes a timber-roofed, energy recovery building that generates enough energy to power 60-70 homes and recoup water supply system operating costs. The system takes advantage of topography and hydraulics to the point that much of City of Nanaimo’s water can be fed by gravity without the use of pumps. Excess hydraulic energy is leveraged by the energy recovery building to reduce City of Nanaimo’s carbon footprint by renewably generating approximately 680 mega watt hours.

“The engineering concept, developed by Associated Engineering, releases the latent energy from the excess hydrostatic pressure caused by the differential elevations between the water treatment plant and the distribution system. The energy recovery building, designed to house the 360kW capacity turbine and other equipment, celebrates innovative infrastructure engineering, builds public awareness of water as a valuable resource, and utilizes sustainable design strategies to influence the form and character of the building. The dominant, asymmetrical roof is designed to represent the journey of water and this is expressed through a continuous reflective sheet metal roof. Two types of dark brick, one with a matte and the other with a glossy surface, are also a reference to the varied color and reflective qualities of natural water bodies, and the custom security screen facing Nanaimo Lakes Road is designed with a pattern reminiscent of raindrops.” – Local Practice Architecture + Design