Science World Launches $39 Million Energy Retrofit Project

Science World in Vancouver is undergoing a significant energy retrofit aimed at enhancing sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. The ambitious $39 million project, which commenced in 2022, not only focuses on lowering environmental impact but also seeks to serve as a model for retrofitting architecturally complex structures. This initiative aligns with the City of Vancouver’s new carbon reporting requirements.

Tracy Redies, president and CEO of Science World, emphasized the importance of this retrofit, stating, “Based on everything we’re doing, we will be a role model for other public facilities that are looking to become more sustainable.” After four decades of operation, the facility, originally constructed for Expo 86, faced challenges such as significant energy loss and structural issues.

To address these problems, Science World is implementing innovative upgrades, including the installation of 12 heat pumps, 298 solar panels, and a new pump room for plumbing and piping. The building’s unique design, which partially sits over water on pilings, necessitated the use of the largest crane in Western Canada to hoist heavy mechanical equipment onto the roof.

Brian Radburn, chief operating officer of Science World, described the logistical hurdles: “The crane that did the lift had to sit partly on a deck and partly on land, and that the land is sort of primordial mud.” Extensive preparations were required, including soil sampling and drilling, to ensure the crane could safely operate under these conditions.

The retrofit also includes substantial internal renovations, particularly within the dome, which will require $1 million in scaffolding. Building this scaffolding took four months, and safety measures such as rescue simulations have been implemented for workers. Redies highlighted the scale of the project, noting, “It’s like we’re flying the plane at 500 miles an hour, changing the engines on the fly, and serving dinner and drinks while we’re doing that.”

While the majority of the science centre will remain open during renovations, the 400-seat auditorium is temporarily closed for an extensive overhaul. This space, which hosts planetarium displays, laser shows, and IMAX documentaries, will receive new seating, a modern sound system, and upgraded projection capabilities. The previous projector, which relied on 70-millimetre films, will be replaced with a digital version, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Funding for the retrofits is sourced from $19 million provided by the federal government’s Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program, along with $20 million from the province of British Columbia. This work is part of a broader $115 million revitalization plan for the museum, which is expected to unfold over the next five to six years.

Upon completion, the retrofits are projected to yield a 42 percent reduction in energy consumption and a decrease of 66.5 tonnes in greenhouse gas emissions annually. Although achieving net zero may not be feasible, Science World will have the capacity to supply surplus power back to BC Hydro during peak demand periods.

Radburn noted the relevance of this initiative to Science World’s mission, stating, “To me, it’s shown the importance of the STEAM [science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics] skills that we are trying to instill in that next generation.” The ongoing retrofit serves as a practical demonstration of these principles, underscoring the institution’s commitment to sustainability and education.