Construction has begun on Teck’s new sustainable office building in Sparwood.
Teck officials said the 121,500-square-foot facility will have space for 580 employees.
“Consolidating multiple Teck offices in Sparwood into one modern facility will improve business efficiency by integrating operations and facilitating collaboration among departments, providing capacity to meet current and future forecasted workforce needs, and enhancing working conditions for staff,” said the company.
The building will also have bike storage and a pedestrian tunnel under Highway 3.
“Our steelmaking coal operations have a proud history in the Elk Valley and a bright future ahead responsibly providing an essential material to the world,” said Robin Sheremeta, Senior Vice President of Teck’s coal division. “This new office is a big part of that future, creating a modern space for our employees as they work every day to ensure responsible mining that delivers social and economic benefits to the entire region.”
Teck said the building’s construction will have a focus on sustainability.
“This state-of-the-art project will incorporate sustainable design technologies including energy efficient lighting, EV charging stations, drought-resistant landscaping that utilizes native plants to negate the need for irrigation, and water-efficient fixtures such as sinks, toilets and showers to reduce impact on the local watershed,” said Teck officials.
The company said the building will be certified by the Canada Green Building Council under Zero-Carbon Building Standards, the BC Energy Step Code Two and CleanBC.
“The requirements set by these certifications will exceed those required by the Zero Carbon Building Standard,” said Teck officials. “A zero-carbon building is highly energy-efficient and minimizes greenhouse gas emissions from building materials and operations.”
Sparwood Mayor David Wilks said the new building will be a welcomed addition to the community.
“This building sets the gold star that we need to meet our carbon goals and achieve our community development plans,” said Teck officials. “Teck is once again demonstrating its commitment to operating sustainably and responsibly in Sparwood and the Elk Valley. As the biggest employer in the region, the economic benefits are tremendous, and we are excited to continue working with Teck as a community partner.”
Teck officials said the facility is expected to open its doors in 2025.
