Ice arenas, which offer significant climate control challenges, represent some of the most energy-intensive buildings a city can operate. The process of making ice takes a lot of energy, as does keeping the ice at a consistently frozen temperature all while ensuring that cheering spectators remain comfortable without overheating active, sweating players.

The rinks, which are typically used day and night, year-round, need to be able to maintain consistent and comfortable temperatures all while quickly adapting from conditioning a nearly vacant space to hosting capacity crowds.