Western University Library

Western University Library sets bold energy efficiency goals with Jaga’s Briza and Freedom heating and cooling units.

Western University in London, Ontario, is one of Canada’s top universities and one of the top 10 universities in the world for sustainability. As part of its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions on its campus by 2050, the university recently replaced one of its natural gas boilers with an electric version that produces high-pressure steam to heat buildings on campus.  This shift reduces greenhouse gas emissions by more than 80 percent compared to natural gas production, significantly lowering Western’s overall carbon footprint.

When Western set out to update its library spaces, including the iconic DB Weldon Library at the heart of campus, it also needed to address the aging building infrastructure. The existing heating and cooling terminal units were outdated, resulting in poor energy efficiency, reduced performance and discomfort for occupants.

Installing a new energy-efficient heating and cooling system, the university required a heating system that could operate at low-water temperatures to support its reduced carbon reduction and net-zero emission goals. Jaga units checked all the right boxes, and were ultimately selected because of their superior energy efficiency and performance. The units not only ensure large, open spaces in the library quickly heat and cool, but that they provide optimal student comfort in the study areas. 

To preserve the existing piping infrastructure and reduce costs, Jaga created a custom solution that allowed for pipes to run through the enclosure of the Briza-22 units. These units provide both heating and cooling across staff offices and study spaces with a sleek, continuous casing that is aligned with the existing molding height and complements the library’s modern aesthetic.

In hallways lined with full-length windows, Jaga’s fan-powered Freedom units help regulate temperature by offsetting hot and cold radiation. When thermal loads increase due to sunlight or increased occupation, the Freedom units react quickly, providing a consistently comfortable temperature for students passing through the space.