Humber Polytechnic's North Campus Transitions to Low-Carbon Heating System with Project SWITCH
Humber Polytechnic's North Campus has transitioned from an outdated steam heating system to a modern hot water distribution network through Project SWITCH, aimed at enhancing sustainability. The new system, which began operations in November 2025, features a 2MW electric boiler and a combined heat pump capacity of over 6,000,000 BTU/hr, targeting a 40% reduction in carbon emissions as part of Humber's goal to achieve net zero by 2029. Completion of the project is anticipated by Spring 2026.

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 The outdated steam system, operational since the 1970s, was inefficient and not aligned with modern sustainability goals.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.




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