The Durham Community Energy Plan is Durham Region’s ambitious strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and take advantage of new clean energy jobs. It presents a pathway up to use less carbon until 2050 with long-term strategies to reduce GHG emissions while growing our economy.
| Community Energy Plan |
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The Durham Community Energy Plan will accelerate the move to a clean energy economy in Durham, while achieving multiple economic, environmental and social benefits. In 2021, after the Regional Council declared a climate emergency, the Region set new goals to reduce greenhouse gases (GHG). These goals are to reduce GHG by 10% by 2025, 30% by 2030, and 100% by 2050 from 2019 levels, matching the federal government’s 2050 net zero goal. Resources: |
| EV Chargers |
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In 2017, vehicles were the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Durham Region, accounting for over 40% of total emissions. The Community Energy Plan highlights electric vehicles (EVs) as key to reducing emissions, with EV adoption expected to contribute 20% of the needed reductions under the Low Carbon Pathway. By 2030, all new vehicles in the Region are expected to be zero-emission. Durham is also transitioning its own fleet, investing $10 million in a pilot project for electric buses. Additionally, the Region is partnering with municipalities to install 60 new public EV charging stations across 21 sites. Resources:
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| District Energy |
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District energy systems are centralized systems that distribute heating and cooling through underground pipes to multiple buildings in a neighbourhood, district, or campus. This is different from each building having its own on-site heating and cooling systems. District energy is an important way for Durham Region to reduce GHG emissions and is expected to make up 16 per cent of total GHG emissions reductions as part of the Region’s low carbon plan. It is especially important in areas with lots of new buildings or redevelopment near sources of waste heat from cities or industries. Resources: |
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