THUNDER BAY — Johnson Controls U.L.C. has been fined $25,000, plus a victim fine surcharge, after pleading guilty to a violation under the Environmental Protection Act.

Johnson Controls U.L.C. maintains refrigeration units that provide air conditioning throughout the main campus of Lakehead University.  In August 2006, an incident occurred where a substantial volume of refrigerant was released and the automatic building venting system caused the refrigerant to be discharged into the atmosphere. 

Johnson Controls U.L.C. was charged following an investigation by the Ministry of the Environment's Investigations and Enforcement Branch.

Johnson Controls U.L.C. pleaded guilty to discharging a refrigerant into the natural environment, contrary to a section of the Environmental Protection Act.  Johnson Controls U.L.C. was fined $25,000, plus a victim fine surcharge, and given 60 days to pay.