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Scheduled to open in early 2014, Hornsby Shire's new Aquatic Centre will operate a 100kW natural gas fired Cogeneration System installed and commissioned by Simons Green Energy that will reduce the its electricity demand and carbon output.

The system will provide a large portion of the facility's electricity demand with the Centre utilising waste-heat generated by the engine to provide hot water for the facilities and for heating the swimming pools.

Explaining the installation, Hornsby Council Project Manager Raymond Huzij states "the indoor pools have been designed to operate at 31 to 32 degrees water temperature.

"An extensive study of the options available was carried out at the design phase and the provision of a Cogeneration System was selected as the most cost effective solution for the project."

Cogeneration is the simultaneous production of two forms of energy - electricity and heat, from a single fuel source (natural gas), at the point of use. These systems have a total efficiency of 85%, as compared to the 32% efficiency of the NSW electricity grid.

Designed, and to be installed, by Simons Green Energy, the Cogeneration System is to be supplied by the well-established global manufacturer Ener-G.

Built in 1962, the Hornsby Aquatic Centre had, in spite of ongoing repair and remediation works, been closed in December 2010 when the condition of the structure supporting the pool had declined to a level where its integrity was unpredictable and where repairs could no longer be undertaken to address the risks.

As a result, the new Peter Hunt Architects designed Centre will feature:

• A heated, eight-lane 50-metre outdoor pool suitable for lap swimming and water polo
• Outdoor seating for 500 spectators with provision for temporary seating for a further 300 spectators
• A heated, 10-metre by 25-metre indoor pool for learn-to-swim activities
• A heated leisure pool with zero-depth entry leading to a walking zone
• A ground floor multi-purpose room suitable for crèche purposes
• Changing and showering facilities with separate spaces for families and groups
• A kiosk accessible from inside the centre and the adjacent Hornsby Park
• A first floor multi-purpose room & meeting room for dry recreation and club activities
• Office space for the operation and administration
• Parking for more than 100 vehicles

Two lifts to provide access to all levels of the complex for people with access needs.

Water filtration works for the project are to be provided by Trisley's Hydraulic Services, whose Managing Director Robert Trisley explains "The Centre will utilise state of the art Atlas UFF filtration systems ... selected after extensive comparisons with other overseas built filters.

"Centrifugal pumps matched to the required filter flow rates have (also) been selected (which will) be built to withstand the aggressive nature of chlorinated water to provide reliability and durability."

The Centre will operate an onsite Chlorine generator as well as using Ultra Violet sanitization for the leisure pool.

Commenting on the development, Hornsby Council Design and Construction Manager Rob Rajca concludes "for me, the most exciting feature of the new centre is the large learn to swim pool, as there has always been a long waiting list for the old facility.

"The leisure pool and water slide are also noteworthy features as are the number of multipurpose rooms for dry activities, and excellent access all round for people with mobility difficulties.

"The provision of undercover parking for over 100 vehicles is another major benefit as the old facility had no on-site parking."

More information on the project can be seen at www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/council/major-projects/yourpool

22nd September 2011 - SIMONS GREEN ENERGY LAUNCHES COGENERATION SYSTEM FOR CASTLE HILL RSL

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