The carbon footprint of a planned multifunctional ice sports centre in Helsinki, Finland to be minimised through an energy solution utilising CO2 cooling

The carbon footprint of a planned multifunctional ice sports centre in Helsinki, Finland to be minimised through an energy solution utilising CO2 cooling  

A planned multifunctional ice sports centre in Myllypuro, Helsinki, will provide top conditions for practicing ice sports with a minimal carbon footprint. Investing in the centre’s energy solution has a significant carbon handprint that reduces the need for purchased energy and minimises the carbon footprint of the property while keeping operating costs low.

When choosing an energy solution to provide the required cooling and heating for a building, the environmental impact is crucial. The new multifunctional centre will use as much electricity per year as 1,800 apartments, as much heating energy as 470 single-family houses, and as much cooling energy as 20,000 refrigerators.  

“Traditionally, ammonia has been used as a refrigerant in ice arenas. The excess heat from the cooling unit is rejected to the ambient air when at the same time heating energy is purchased from an energy supplier. By investing about half a million euros in new technology in the construction phase, it is possible to save about EUR 6 million in operating costs over a 20-year period. At best the sports centre is not just carbon neutral but can produce carbon handprint,” says Business Manager Jani Orava, Caverion Finland.

The low operating costs and low carbon footprint are based on three principal factors: recycling of energy flows in the property, local generation of energy such as photovoltaic and geothermal energy, and a comprehensive building systems delivery where automation plays a key role. Top quality ice is ensured by modern environmentally friendly technology.  

The total floor area of the multifunctional centre is approximately 16,000 square metres.  

Multifunctional, energy-friendly centre 

“Right from the beginning of the design phase, we have attached great importance to environmental friendliness and accessibility. In addition, our centre will be truly multifunctional: three different ice sports and many other forms of exercise can be carried out simultaneously. Another important aspect is that the centre will be a place where everyday sports and top-level sports meet,” says Janne Hänninen, Chairman of the Board, Myllypuron Jääurheilukeskus Oy.  

The new multifunctional ice sports centre in Myllypuro is planned to be a training centre for both speed and figure skating. The plans for the sports centre include a 400-metre speed skating track, two ice rinks, a 447-metre running track, and more. Stands with seating capacity for approximately 2,000 spectators will make it possible to organise events such as speed skating European Championships and World Championships in Finland.  

Caverion and YIT have drawn up an implementation plan for the project in accordance with the letter of intent signed with Myllypuron Jääurheilukeskus Oy.  

The Myllypuro ice sports centre is listed by the Olympic Committee as a nationally important sports centre (November 2018). The value of the project is approximately EUR 20 million.

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