City introduces electric Zamboni to ice re-surfacing fleet

Levelling ice surfaces at the Leduc Recreation Centre in the City of Leduc will be more efficient and cost effective with the recent arrival of the city’s first ever electric powered Zamboni.

The new machine, which is the first of its size in Alberta, was added to the city’s fleet in March 2021 and is expected to improve ice quality for users while reducing fuel costs and water consumption.

 The Zamboni will require approximately 30 per cent less maintenance than a traditional ice resurfacer, reduce wear and tear on the blade, and cut back roughly 5 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions produced during routine resurfacing per year. It will also reduce carbon monoxide exhaust released in the facility.

 “Our Council and staff are committed to sustainable operations and working towards our greenhouse gas reduction targets,” said Mayor Bob Young. “I look forward to seeing the new Zamboni in action on a regular basis, especially as provincial health restrictions are eased and we are able to fully welcome our community back to the ice.”

 It also features the following key components:

• A hydraulic system that provides optimum power and smooth operation;
• A motor that requires minimal maintenance;
• Level-ice laser levelling system that reduces opportunity for operator error;
• An electric charging station that will be partially powered by the facility’s solar panels;
• The ability to charge between resurfacing, eliminating the need to charge for extended periods of time overnight; and
• Sealed lithium ion batteries that do not require maintenance, are emission free and carry a life expectancy of 10–12 years.

In total, the Zamboni cost approximately $184,000 and is being paid for in part ($50,000) by grant funding through the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre. This equipment was acquired as part of the Leduc’s fleet replacement program. Additional machines may be considered as the rest of the city’s ice resurfacing fleet reach the end of their lifecycle.

“By electrifying their ice resurfacer through the Electric Vehicles for Municipalities Program, the City of Leduc continues to advance their leadership on climate action, and inspire residents and businesses to do their part to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” stated Trina Innes, Executive Director of the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre.

Left to right: Coun. Bill Hamilton, Mayor Bob Young, Coun. Laura Tillack, Coun. Lars Hansen and Coun. Glen Finstad.