City of Hamilton energy programs result in $9.9 million in savings and avoided costs in 2018

HAMILTON, ON – Last evening, Hamilton City Council received the 2018 Annual Energy Report, which provides a detailed review of the City’s energy usage, costs, energy performance, procurement efforts and conservation initiatives for corporate assets.

In 2018, the City’s energy strategies and programs resulted in a $9.9 million in savings and avoided costs. This includes savings such as:

• $2.5 million in energy conservation efforts 
• $6.4 million in managing electricity rate program
• $323,000 in incentives
• $220,000 in cost recovery initiatives
• $530,000 in natural gas hedging

Energy intensity (energy usage per square foot) is the key performance indicator for corporate buildings. Since 2005, the City’s energy intensity has been reduced by 25 per cent.

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions related to corporate operations have been inventoried and reported annually since the adoption of the Corporate Air Quality and Climate Change Strategic Plan in 2008. In 2017, the GHG emissions inventory was 79,028 tonnes of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent). This represents a 38% reduction since 2005 and 5% reduction since 2016. Reporting data for the GHG emissions report is one year behind.

In 2014, Hamilton City Council approved a corporate energy policy which provides guidelines for making energy-related decisions as it pertains to corporate assets. The policy supports making building and process improvements that lead to energy usage reductions and emission reductions to benefit the City both environmentally and financially. The policy also:

• Facilitates the achievement of corporate-wide energy and emission reduction targets
• Addresses the legislated reporting requirements
• Defines policies for capital investment related to energy
• Defines policies related to energy procurement and exploring renewable energy opportunities
• Addresses regulations concerning GHG emissions

The City of Hamilton’s commitment to energy conservation and environmental sustainability plays an important role in supporting the City’s Strategic Plan by contributing to a prosperous and healthy community, providing valued and sustainable services, and demonstrating innovation and leadership.