City of Royal Oak

The John Lindell Ice Arena in Royal Oak, Michigan, recently implemented targeted measures to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. These efforts align with the City of Royal Oak’s Sustainability and Climate Action Plan (S-CAP) and demonstrate how even small operational changes can yield measurable environmental benefits.

As part of a broader strategy to improve the performance of municipal facilities, the City of Royal Oak began implementing energy-saving measures in late 2023, following the hiring of its first sustainability manager. While the facility is still in need of long-term capital upgrades, the city’s efforts have already made a significant impact, earning the John Lindell Ice Arena top honors in the Entertainment/Hotel/Restaurant category of the 2024 Michigan Battle of the Buildings.

Though the project involved a relatively simple scope, it exemplified the idea that small operational changes can lead to substantial results. The upgrades focused on:

• Necessary repairs to water heating and boiler systems, including a boiler repair and the economizer filter section
• Behavioral and operational changes, such as turning off lights and electronic devices when not in use, and adjusting thermostat settings for better efficiency

In partnership with Suburban Sports Group, which manages the day-to-day rink operations, these changes were implemented with minimal cost but considerable strategic value.

These efforts are consistent with Royal Oak’s broader vision for sustainability. As outlined in the city’s S-CAP, 39.1% of the municipality’s greenhouse gas emissions are linked to building electricity use. By eliminating energy waste, the city is reducing operational costs and making steady progress toward its environmental goals.

With a focus on efficient operation and energy-conscious behavior, the facility achieved a 12.19% reduction in weather-normalized source energy use intensity (kBtu/ft2) and a greenhouse gas reduction of 942.08 metric tons of CO₂e.

Though exact cost savings and ROI are not yet available, the project underscores how low-cost measures and employee engagement can contribute meaningfully to a municipality’s sustainability targets.

For the City of Royal Oak, winning in this category validates the philosophy that every effort counts, no matter the size. As a city official put it:

“Being the winner in this category affirms that even when we aren’t taking on the really big challenges, with everyone doing their part, we can recognize measurable success.”

This recognition highlights the importance of integrating sustainability into everyday operations, especially in facilities like the ice arena that are heavy energy users by nature.

While the John Lindell Ice Arena still requires significant capital investment, the City of Royal Oak remains committed to operating it and all municipal buildings with a sustainability mindset. The city’s Energy & Buildings Vision prioritizes safety, comfort, and health for all by fostering a built environment that promotes accessible energy resource efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable building techniques, and resiliency. 

Looking forward, the City plans to continue pursuing energy savings through targeted upgrades, expanded use of renewable energy, incorporating sustainable techniques and certifications, and deeper collaboration with public utilities. These efforts are part of a comprehensive sustainability strategy that spans multiple focus areas, from green space and water management to waste reduction and quality of life.