Saint John Laundry solar project cuts costs, emissions

A new solar installation at Saint John Laundry is now producing clean power for the facility, covering about a quarter of its electricity needs.

Local Government Minister Aaron Kennedy, who is also minister responsible for Service New Brunswick, said the 500‑kilowatt project is the largest solar system ever completed at a provincial government-owned site.

“This will reduce energy costs, and, since it’s producing clean energy, it will reduce our carbon footprint, as well,” Kennedy said in a government release.

The laundry plant processes more than seven million kilograms of laundry each year for hospitals and nursing homes across New Brunswick.

Environment and Climate Change Minister Gilles LePage said the project’s emission reductions are equal to taking 50 cars off the road.

“This solar project will have a positive impact on our environment,” LePage said. “This is one more example of how our government is combatting climate change.”

The $1.9‑million project was funded through the province’s Climate Change Fund.

The fund provides financial support for initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting education and helping communities adapt to the effects of climate change.

It also advances the province’s Climate Change Action Plan, which sets a target to cut emissions by 2030 and reach net‑zero by 2050.