Climate action progress: Calgary Parking's sustainability update
Calgary Parking continues its commitment to environmental responsibility. With big strides made in 2024 and exciting plans for 2025, we are making meaningful progress toward a greener, more efficient city.
We caught up with Medina, who oversees parking operations, to chat about what has been accomplished and what is next for sustainability at Calgary Parking.
What were some of Calgary Parking’s major sustainability achievements in 2024?
2024 was a big year for us in advancing our climate action goals. One of our biggest wins was expanding the solar panels at the Municipal Impound Lot, helping us move closer to our goal of net-zero energy consumption by 2030. Investing in renewable energy like this is a key part of our long-term sustainability strategy.
We also made it easier for electric vehicle drivers to charge up while parked at our facilities. Our first Level 2 EV chargers were installed at Lot 7, offering public charging times. Meanwhile, we added fleet vehicle charging stations at the Municipal Impound Lot to allow us to charge our operational vehicles efficiently during off-peak hours.
Another important initiative was our efforts to protect Calgary’s waterways. We piloted hydrocarbon catchers at the Municipal Impound Lot which trap pollutants like oil, plastics, and cigarette butts before they reach storm drains, helping to keep our water clean.
What sustainability initiatives does Calgary Parking have planned for 2025?
- More Solar Power: We are expanding solar panels at the Municipal Impound Lot to generate even more renewable energy and further reduce our carbon footprint.
- Bike-Friendly Parking: We are launching a daily bike locker pilot at Lot 25 in collaboration with Bike Calgary, featuring five bike lock stations and two bike lockers. These will include e-bike charging and will be accessible via an app for easy payment and use.
- Greener Fleet Vehicles: We are aiming to have 50% of our operational fleet made up of green vehicles by the end of 2025, cutting emissions and improving fuel efficiency.
- Sustainable EV Charging: We are introducing an off-grid, solar-powered Level 2 EV charging station at the Municipal Impound Lot, offering sustainable charging without adding strain to the grid. This will be specifically for impounded EV vehicles, ensuring they are fully charged and ready for release.
- Efficiency Upgrades: We will be consolidating three office locations into two, reducing electricity and natural gas use. We will also be upgrading the lighting in our parkades to energy-efficient LED lights and replacing old boilers with more efficient models tailored to each facility’s needs.
Why is sustainability a priority for Calgary Parking?
Sustainability is at the core of what we do. By investing in renewable energy, efficient lighting, and eco-friendly transportation infrastructure, we are reducing our environmental footprint while improving the services we provide to Calgarians. Our efforts align with The City’s broader climate action goals, ensuring that parking solutions contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable urban landscape.
We are proud of the progress made in 2024 and are excited about the future. With continued innovation and community collaboration, Calgary Parking remains committed to making a meaningful impact on Calgary’s sustainability journey.
Categories: Community, Sustainability
