Advancing climate goals through Indigenous school retrofits

The Ermineskin Primary School mechanical retrofit is a leading example of energy modernization for Indigenous community infrastructure. Located in Samson Cree Nation, Maskwacis, Alberta, the 5,700 m² primary school required a major mechanical upgrade to improve climate resilience, indoor environmental quality, and long-term energy performance.

The project aligned with Infrastructure Canada’s Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program, which prioritizes electrification, emissions reduction, and improved community resilience in underserved and Indigenous communities.

Focal Engineering was retained by Rede Energy Solutions to complete an energy and GHG savings analysis using RETScreen software. This analysis supported the GICB program submission, evaluating system performance, lifecycle cost, and GHG reduction potential to strengthen the project’s funding application.

– Replacement of gas-fired systems with high-efficiency air-source and ground-source heat pumps

– Addition of cooling capacity to support climate resilience during extreme heat events

– Modernized ventilation systems with integrated heat recovery for improved air quality

– Advanced digital building controls for optimized performance and monitoring

– RETScreen modelling quantifying pre and postretrofit energy use, cost savings, and emissions reductions.

This retrofit highlights the critical role of electrification and performance modelling in modernizing community infrastructure. By integrating efficient heat pump technology and advanced controls, the project sets a scalable example for low-carbon retrofits in Indigenous communities, supporting both climate objectives and community resilience.

Energy Modelling and Technical Strategy: Focal Engineering

Mechanical: Rede Energy Solutions

Program: Infrastructure Canada – Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB)