Article

Humber Polytechnic's North Campus has replaced its legacy steam-based heating network with a new hot water distribution system through Project SWITCH. The outdated steam system, operational since the 1970s, was inefficient and not aligned with modern sustainability goals.

The new hot water network, which runs at lower temperatures, allows for the integration of lower carbon heating sources. Construction began in 2022 and involved the installation of 1.6 kilometers of underground piping, connecting campus buildings to a centralized heating system.

The hot water heating system commenced operation in mid-November 2025, featuring a 2MW electric boiler and a combined heat pump capacity of over 6,000,000 BTU/hr, significantly reducing natural gas use. The project aims to decrease carbon emissions by 40% and is a step towards Humber's goal of achieving net zero by 2029, with final completion expected in Spring 2026.