City of Nanaimo earns bonus from BC Hydro for pool water treatment upgrade

NEWS RELEASE - Distributed December 10, 2025 10:00 AM

Summary

The City of Nanaimo received a $78,600 bonus from BC Hydro for its innovative upgrade to pool water treatment systems at Beban Pool and the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre to help offset implementation costs. The City replaced traditional ultraviolet (UV) technology with a more energy-efficient and sustainable filtration and enhanced chemistry process system.

UV technology, formerly considered the industry standard for pool water treatment, has been shown to contribute to poor indoor air quality, have high repair costs and consume a large amount of energy. When it came time to replace the aging UV systems, City staff recognized an opportunity to improve water and air quality while using less chemicals and energy.

The City tested the new chemistry filtration system, popular in Europe and increasingly adopted in Canada, at one facility before rolling it out to additional locations. City of Nanaimo and BC Hydro staff collaborated to assess the energy savings, projected to surpass 489,000 kWh's, or over $34,000 each year, paired with the new speed drives installed on the pool pumps.

This program demonstrates the City's dedication to sustainability, creativity and offering healthier public spaces for residents and a commitment to reduce operating costs.

Link to Strategic Plan: The City of Nanaimo's pool water treatment initiatives support the City's commitment to a Healthy Nanaimo that fosters community well-being and livability.

Key Points

The City received a bonus of $78,600 from BC Hydro to help offset implementation costs, recognizing the innovation and environmental benefits of the upgrade.
The City of Nanaimo replaced traditional UV pool water treatment systems with an enhanced chemistry and filtration system, improving water and air quality while reducing chemical use and energy consumption.
The new system, combined with speed drives on pool pumps, is projected to save over 489,000 kWh's ($34,000) annually, contributing to the City’s sustainability goals.

Quotes

"This upgrade benefits us in many ways with enhanced water quality, superior air quality and substantial energy savings. By adopting cutting-edge technology, we’re not just improving the experience for pool users but also promoting the City’s dedication to sustainability."

Mike Bryson

Deputy Director, Civic Facilities

City of Nanaimo

"We greatly appreciate the City of Nanaimo’s ongoing commitment to energy conservation. Through our Commercial Energy Manager Program, the City is enhancing community spaces while advancing sustainability goals. These efforts not only earned bonus funding under the program but also demonstrate true leadership in creating a healthier, more sustainable future for residents."

Meaghan Fahey

Key Account Manager

BC Hydro