The Town of Petawawa is considering options when it comes to being more environmentally friendly.
One of those options is looking at purchasing an electric ice-resurfacer for the Petawawa Civic Centre.
Director of Community Services Kelly Williams says up front, the costs are significantly higher, but over the course of the life of the machine, it works out to be about the same.
In a report presented to council, it shows an upfront costs for a propane powered machine at about $82,000 compared to $135,000 for an electric ice-resurfacer.
Williams says when you factor in fuel savings, compared to electricity costs, replacement parts, maintenance and not considering environmental benefits, over the 10-year lifespan of the ice-resurfacer, the Town would pay about $195,000 for a conventional propane one or $197,000 for one that’s electric powered.
He adds the machine the town currently has is not falling apart, but it’s nearing the end of it’s life expectancy and due to be replaced soon.
The electric ice-resurfacer will be an item for council to consider as part of the 2022 budget process.
Petawawa has already committed to switching over to zero emission pick up trucks by 2035 with the first vehicle set to be replaced in 2027.