The Comox Valley Regional District says big progress is on the way in 2026 as it works toward cutting corporate emissions and meeting climate targets.

The regional district is moving ahead with key actions under its Corporate Energy and Emissions Plan, which aims to reduce overall emissions by 50 percent by 2030.

One of the biggest steps this year will focus on the Comox Valley Aquatic Centre, one of the organization’s largest sources of emissions.

Officials say the aquatic centre, along with the sports centre, accounts for about 60 percent of the CVRD’s total corporate emissions.

As part of scheduled maintenance this summer, aging natural gas-powered mechanical systems at the facility will be replaced with more efficient electric heat pumps.

The upgrades will allow the building to be heated, cooled and dehumidified more efficiently.

The $2.5 million project is expected to reduce overall CVRD emissions by about 30 percent, while also extending the life of the facility.

The district says the work is being timed to coincide with the end of the current system’s lifespan, ensuring the investment is both environmentally and financially responsible.

Beyond emissions reductions, the upgrades are also expected to improve comfort for users, with better humidity control and air circulation inside the facility.

The CVRD says it has already made progress toward its targets, including a significant drop in gasoline emissions through reduced driving and the continued shift toward electric vehicles in its fleet.

Get details at Comox Valley Regional District.