The Centre for Excellence will be the newest addition to the Penticton Campus, and will be the most sustainable of all of Okanagan College's buildings.  It is 76,000 sqft (7090 m2), housing a gymnasium, building trade shops, classrooms and faculty offices.

• The project is pursuing the Living Building Challenge, requiring Net Zero energy use, Net Zero non-potable use and zero waste water production, amongst other criteria.  The strategies used will be incorporated into the curriculum of the trades and College programmes, ensuring graduates are trained on the most up-to-date technologies, and that students understand the principles of sustainability.  The facility will be both a tool for outreach to the community, as well as a resource, providing a much needed gymnasium/fitness area and a more comprehensive local alternative for post secondary education and training.

• Passive design strategies using solar / thermal chimneys to naturally light and ventilate the spaces and renewable technologies such as solar panels and wind power are currently under investigation.  Ground water will provide the heating/cooling source, as well as subterrainian irrigation, closing the water loop.  A district system is being considered for the waste water treatment, using UV treatment and biofiltration.

Centre of Excellence Site Plan