Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan

Transcription

1 2017 Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan

2 Table of Contents Executive Summary... 4 Introduction & Background:... 6 What is Community Energy Planning?... 6 Stage 1: Stakeholder Engagement... 6 Stage 2: Baseline Energy Study (BLS) and Energy Map(s) Stage 3: Community Energy Plan development Legal Framework/Background:... 9 Ontario Long Term Energy Plan Middlesex Centre Strategic Plan & CEP: The Benefits of CEP: Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan: Goals & Objectives Middlesex Centre Current Context Social Context Population Growth Economic Growth Electricity Consumption: Analysis of electricity consumption in Middlesex Centre Time of Use (TOU) Pricing: Natural Gas Consumption Middlesex Centre Energy Conservation & Demand Management Plan ( ): Financial Implications of Middlesex Centre Energy Savings: Net Zero Energy Coldstream Fire Hall: Komoka Wellness Centre: Waste Water Treatment Plants: Best Practices of Other Municipalities Burlington s Renewable Energy Projects: Oakville s Sustainable Corporate Energy Management Plan Halton Hills Green Development Checklist Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 1

3 Priority Green Clarington: Opportunities & Constraints Development of Wellness Centre lands to affordable net zero energy housing Housing Needs Assessment: Request for Proposal: Middlesex Centre Green Builder Award: Green Fleet Plan Ontario Green Energy Act FIT Contract Projects in Middlesex Centre: Analysis of Green Energy in Middlesex Centre: Net Metering: Forward Thinking Approach: Geothermal: Recommendations & Implementation Plan Recommendations Implementation Plan List of Figures Figure 1: Planning Cycle of Community Energy Plan (Island Institute 2016)... 9 Figure 2: A view of high voltage electricity power lines in Ontario Figure 3: Bloomberg energy finance research on solar PV price decline Figure 4: The municipal map and boundary of Middlesex Centre (Middlesex County 2013) Figure 5: Settlement Areas of Middlesex Centre Figure 6: Population Growth Rate in Middlesex County (Statistic Canada, 2016) Figure 7: Population growth rate within the Middlesex County Figure 8: Sector-by-sector consumption of electricity from Local Utility Figure9: Sector-by-Sector Electricity Consumption in Middlesex Centre ( ) Figure 10: TOU Pricing (2016/2017) Figure 11: Residential Sector: Natural gas consumption (2016) Figure 12: Commercial Sector: Natural gas consumption (2015 & 2016) Figure 13: Commercial Natural gas consumption in 2015 and Figure 14: Middlesex Centre combined energy usage for 2011 and Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 2

4 Figure 15: Annual energy consumption [natural gas, propane & electricity] at Middlesex Centre buildings and facilities. (Source 2012 Energy Consumption Data) Figure 16: An Architectural Impression of new Coldstream Fire Hall: An Architectural Impression of new Coldstream Fire Hall Figure 17: Komoka Wellness & Recreational centre depicting solar panels on roof top Figure 18: Energy Usage Kilworth Waste Water Treatment Plant (Portfolio Manager) Figure 19: Energy Usage Ilderton Waste Water Treatment Plant (Portfolio Manager) Figure 20: Energy Usage Komoka Waste Water Treatment Plant (Portfolio Manager) Figure 21: An example of solar pool heating in RusTon Campground - Grand Bend Ontario. June Figure 22: Overview of Burlington Tansley Woods Community Centre Figure 23: A portrait of down town Oakville Figure 24: Cover of Green Development standards Figure 25: A Priority Green demonstration home under construction Figure 26: Concept plan of Avi Friedman housing proposal Figure 27: An example of the type of net-zero residential houses to be developed at the Wellness Centre Figure 28: Sample of Avi Friedman s housing type at Wellness Centre Figure 29: Recipients of Green Builder Recognition Program Award Figure 30: Total number of micro-fit projects in Ontario Figure 31: List of FIT contract projects in Middlesex Centre Figure 32: A solar farm in a local municipality Figure 33: Solar shingles in residential household renewable energy generation Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 3

5 Executive Summary Canada has made tremendous strides when it comes to green infrastructure, energy efficiency, clean energy technologies and clean fuels. In 2012, Canada s per capita greenhouse gas emissions dropped to a historical low at 20.1 tonnes per person, which is about 12 percent lower than Since 2005, Canadian greenhouse gas emissions have decreased by 5.1 percent while the economy has grown by 10.6 percent. In 2013, Canada had the second fastest growing clean energy market among the G-20 countries. Canada s green energy sector has grown so quickly and has become such an important part of the national economy, the International Energy Agency ranked Canada second in energy efficiency improvements between 1990 and The successful endeavour of the Canadian green energy revolution is an achievement Middlesex Centre is working to emulate at a local level. The development of this Ministry of Energy partly-funded Community Energy Plan (CEP) can serve as a tool that will help Middlesex Centre in their pursuit of being a Canadian green energy success story The four primary objectives of the CEP are: Reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gases Reduce energy cost Explore green energy opportunities Support local economic development Energy consumption trends for Middlesex Centre were obtained from Hydro One and Union Gas. This data was analyzed and broken down into the following sectoral usage: Residential Industrial Commercial Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 4

6 Agriculture Consumption trends from the Municipality since 2012 have been reviewed in this plan. The analysis found that the industrial sector has the lowest consumption for electricity, while the residential sector has the highest consumption rates for both electricity and natural gas usage. The Municipality of Middlesex Centre s review will also include other Municipalities best practices and how they have successfully integrated the concept environmental sustainability and energy conservation. The CEP concludes with recommendations and an implementation plan that will enable the municipality and its residents to play a role in meeting the energy conservation objectives set by the Ontario Long Term Energy Plan. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 5

7 Introduction & Background: What is Community Energy Planning? A Community Energy Plan (CEP) is a comprehensive, long term plan to improve energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and foster local sustainable energy solutions in the community. Community Energy Plans evaluate a municipality s existing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in order to: Accurately measure community-wide energy consumption and GHG emissions. Identify and implement solutions to improve energy efficiency and conservation. Help develop community priorities around renewable energy and other energy infrastructure. Integrate energy conservation and sustainability into the local planning process. The development of a CEP is comprised of three major stages: Stage 1: Stakeholders engagement Stage 2: Baseline Energy Study/Energy Mapping Stage 3: The creation of the Plan and approval by Municipal Council Stage 1: Stakeholder Engagement A Stakeholder Engagement component is intended to ensure that all relevant stakeholders in Middlesex Centre are engaged in the process of creating the Plan. Key stakeholders include, but not limited to: Elected Municipal Officials Local Distribution Company and Local Gas Utilities Large institutional, commercial and industrial energy users Business improvement associations and local business groups Local non-governmental organization with an energy focus, sector organisations Real estate sector Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 6

8 Local builders and developers Energy project developers Local academic institutions The engagement is intended to build awareness of current energy issues (including generation and transmission supply), invite stakeholder input about individual energy trends, issues, needs, and to identify conservation and renewable energy objectives or opportunities. Stakeholder engagements can take the form of public meetings, surveys and correspondences soliciting for stakeholder views/opinions. On October 25 th, 2016 between 7pm 9pm the first stakeholder engagement session for Middlesex Centre CEP was undertaken. The second and final stakeholder engagement session will be occurring in the fall of 2017 to review the content of draft CEP. Stage 2: Baseline Energy Study (BLS) and Energy Map(s). Baseline energy studies (BLS) measure how and where energy is used within a municipality and analyses opportunities for energy reduction. The participation of local gas and electric utilities is required to provide energy consumption data. Other sources of data may include the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC), municipal offices and other government bodies. An accurate BLS will allow for the Municipality to identify potential opportunities for energy savings. Due to privacy concerns, energy data Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 7

9 can only be collected at the resolution of postal code level. This level of detail is somewhat granular, but will be reviewed to help in identifying specific areas and opportunities for reducing energy consumption. Energy mapping is an effective tool for visually representing energy use, identifying conservation opportunities and communicating this information to the residents of Middlesex Centre. Stage 3: Community Energy Plan development. Using energy consumption data from the BLS, the Municipality will be able to evaluate their energy conservation opportunities by sector and area and develop an implementation plan that includes conservation and policy recommendations aimed at reducing energy use throughout the Municipality. An important priority for the Province is the consideration of renewable and local energy sources, therefore, this will be evaluated and included in the development of the Plan. The Plan also needs to include a commitment and support from Council, as well propose timelines on integrating energy efficiency and conservation recommendations. This will include action items included in other municipal planning directives such as the Official Plan, Strategic Plan, economic strategies, growth plans and prioritization exercises. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 8

10 Figure 1: Planning Cycle of Community Energy Plan (Island Institute 2016) 1 Legal Framework/Background: In 2013, there was a ministerial directive to the Independent Electricity Systems Operator (IESO) and OPA (Ontario Power Authority) 2 regarding engaging local communities in the citing of large electricity projects. This ministerial directive led to the development of the report Engaging Local Communities in Ontario s Electricity Planning Continuum 3. One of the recommendations of this report was to support local municipalities to better The Ontario Power Authority merged with the Independent Electricity Systems Operator in January of 2015 to form one single entity. The new organization will combine the OPA and IESO mandates. 3 Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 9

11 understand their local energy needs, identify opportunities for energy efficiency, clean energy, and develop plans to meet their goals. To promote community energy planning, in pursuance with IESO/OPA report, the Ministry of Energy launched two programs: The Municipal Energy Plan Program (MEP) 4 The Aboriginal Community Energy Plan Program. These programs led to the inception of the community energy planning process by municipalities in Ontario. The MEP Program provides successful applicants with funding for 50 per cent of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $90,000 to develop a Community Energy Plan (CEP). Some municipalities that are currently developing CEPs include: City of Kingston City of Temiskaming Shores Municipality of Chatham Kent, City of Woodstock Municipality of Wawa City of Vaughan Town of Newmarket City of Markham City of Windsor Durham Region Region of Waterloo 4 Municipal Energy Plan is the same as Community Energy Plan. These names are used interchangeably. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 10

12 A CEP takes an integrated approach to energy planning by aligning energy, infrastructure and land use planning. The outcome of these four items leads to the following fundamental goals of the CEP: Assess the community s energy use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Identify opportunities to conserve, improve energy efficiency and reduce GHG emissions. Consider impact of future growth and options for local clean energy generation. Support local economic development. Ontario Long Term Energy Plan On a broader context of energy planning, the Ontario Long Term Energy Plan (LTEP) 5 which was launched in 2010 and reviewed/updated in 2013, was developed to enhance energy planning in the province with the input from people across Ontario. The revision of the LTEP will follow the steps outlined in the recent amendments to the Electricity Act of 1998 and will require consultation with local Communities, Stakeholders and other Ministries. The 2017 LTEP is a road map setting out the direction for Ontario s energy future for the next 20 years 6. The Community Energy Plan created by Middlesex Centre will be used to provide input into LTEP. 5 See Ministry of Energy website for more information on LTEP: Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 11

13 Figure 2: A view of high voltage electricity power lines in Ontario Middlesex Centre Strategic Plan & CEP: Middlesex Centre Strategic Plan gives Council and Staff direction on where to focus planning and resources for Middlesex Centre. The mission statement from the Strategic Plan is: To create a proactive community strategy for Middlesex Centre, which will foster a culture of diversification, excellence, and innovation, develop opportunities for future growth, and preserve the established community characteristics which make it a valued place to live. This mission statement complements the CEP regarding local opportunities for future economic growth. The Strategic Plan also has 21 strategic priorities which focus on shortterm, mid-term to long-term initiatives. Four strategic priorities that overlap with the purpose of CEP are: Diversifying future residential development Promoting local commercial and retail growth and sustainability Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 12

14 Realizing economic development opportunities Promoting environmental initiatives. The promotion of Environmental Initiatives in the Strategic Plan has a long-term initiative of adopting green initiatives such as solar power and bio-fuel. Since the CEP seeks to identify opportunities for energy conservation and explore green energy initiatives, both policy documents work together to achieve a common goal. The Benefits of CEP: A CEP can provide a wide range of economic, environmental, social and energy security benefits, which include: Build awareness of energy use, energy generation and supply in the community Identify opportunities to conserve energy, reduce energy costs and initiate green energy solutions and develop long-term strategies to implement these solutions through-out Middlesex Centre Create economic opportunities, support investment and encourage energy efficiency and local energy projects that may create local jobs Increase energy security that will lead to more environmentally and economically sustainable communities in Middlesex Centre Improve energy efficiency, reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions Foster local sustainable energy solutions in the community Address energy limitations where they exist Reduce community vulnerability to energy price increases Increase energy security and resilience Build a local energy efficiency and local energy market sector and retain energy dollars within the community Engage major stakeholders in Middlesex Centre who have an important stake in energy issues Provide input into energy planning in Ontario, locally and regionally Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 13

15 Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan: Goals & Objectives 1) Promote Education & Awareness, Behavioral Change and Culture of Conservation to increase community knowledge and participation in energy conservation programs. Rationale: Managing energy use is the corner stone to a sustainable community development. Therefore an educated and well informed community are better positioned to make right decisions regarding energy conservation. 2) Encourage businesses and residents to improve the thermal energy efficiency of their buildings/homes through measures such as increased insulation and weather stripping. Rationale: A reliable affordable and sustainable energy supply is essential to the long-term vitality of any community. The development of strategies to reduce energy consumption will contribute enormously to reducing operating cost, lowering energy bills and generating savings that can be reinvested in other areas of the local economy. Union Gas and Hydro One offer financial incentives to undertake home energy retrofits, which can be found at: Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 14

16 3) Encourage home owners and building managers to benchmark energy consumption of buildings. Develop or use existing online software such as ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager for tracking energy usage and energy cost 7. Rationale: By tracking energy use in their homes, consumers will be able to identify energy consumption patterns and make changes or improvements where ever necessary. Being able to measure usages allows for better managing of energy consumption. 4) Increase community engagement opportunities by including information on Municipality s website to engage community on conservation initiatives. Rationale: To create an easily accessible online presence to enable members of the Middlesex Centre community to access energy efficiency related information, business opportunities and incentives programs. 5) Improve energy efficiency of existing buildings in the Municipality. Rationale: Despite a growing population, increased housing and commercial/institutional building stock, the stability in emissions in the buildings sector is largely attributed to energy retrofits. 7 See link to register for Energy Star software: Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 15

17 6) Encourage builders to exceed Ontario Building Code energy efficiency requirements. Rationale: According to the Environment Canada 2013 Emission Report 8, greenhouse gas emissions in the commercial and residential buildings increased by 14 mega tonnes between 1990 and Since 1990 buildings in Canada have accounted for about 12% of the nation s GHG emissions. Encouraging builders to exceed Code requirements will be Middlesex Centre s minor contribution towards Canada meeting it s Paris Agreement on Climate Change and also partially fulfilling the requirement of Ontario s Climate Change & Low Carbon Economy Act of ) Explore net metering & behind-the-meter as an opportunity to support green energy projects and community micro-grid concept. Rationale: Net metering is a billing arrangement that allows electricity customers to generate renewable energy on-site for their own use and receive bill credits for any surplus electricity sent to the grid. The Ontario Ministry of Energy is proposing amendments to the 2005 Net Metering Regulation (O. Reg. 541/05). The 2005 Regulation establishes a consistent net metering program in the Province by requiring electricity distributors to offer net metering to their customers upon request, in accordance with the Regulation. Net metering offers significant advantages: Avoid line loses Can reduce the need for future distribution system build out 8 Canada's%20Emissions%20Trends%202013_e.pdf Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 16

18 Reduces carbon emissions Avoids use of bulk transmission system and Reduces fuel price risk The price of solar panels have been on a downward trend within the last 15 years and projected to further decline by (See graph below) Figure 3: Bloomberg energy finance research on solar PV price decline 9. 9 Randal, T. (2016). World Energy Hits a Turning Point: Solar that s cheaper than wind. Retrieved from: 03/07/17. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 17

19 8) Maximize the use of on-site renewable energy such as solar and geothermal in new construction as a means to develop net zero energy buildings. Rationale: The use of on-site renewable energy can increase the resilience of the provincial electrical grid and serve as a tool that will contribute to significant peak demand load. It will also increase home and business owners awareness of the economic and environmental benefits of green energy. In support of Ontario s Climate Change Action Plan , Provinces are to reduce greenhouse emissions in the building sector, in particular the development of net-zero energy structures. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 18

20 Middlesex Centre Current Context The Municipality of Middlesex Centre was established on January 1, 1998 with the amalgamation of the former townships of Delaware, Lobo, and London. The Municipality has a land area of approximately 588 square kilometres and is located north and west of the City of London in the County of the Middlesex. Middlesex Centre is one of the eight municipalities that form Middlesex County. The remaining seven municipalities are: North Middlesex, Lucan Biddulph, Thames Centre, Adelaide Metcalfe, Strathroy Caradoc, Southwest Middlesex and Newbury. Figure 4: The municipal map and boundary of Middlesex Centre (Middlesex County 2013). Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 19

21 Social Context Middlesex Centre has a unique blend of agricultural areas and eleven settlements areas. The structure of the settlement areas within the Municipality is based on a three level hierarchy, in conformity with the Middlesex County Official plan. The three levels are: Urban Settlement Areas, Community Settlement Areas and Hamlets. Urban Settlement Area Community Settlement Area Hamlets Ilderton Arva Ballymote Komoka/Kilworth Delaware Birr Bryanston Denfield Lobo Melrose Poplar Hill- Coldstream Figure 5: Settlement Areas of Middlesex Centre Population Growth According to Statistics Canada the current population of Middlesex Centre in 2016 is 17,262 residents. This figure is projected to increase by 36.8% to 23,607 by the year In the 2016 census, the population of the Middlesex Centre witnessed a 4.7% growth compared to the previous 2011 census. In comparison with other municipalities in the Middlesex County, Middlesex Centre, experienced the second highest level of population growth behind Lucan-Biddulph with 8.3%. In comparison the City of London saw a 4.8% increase in population growth. Local Municipality Population Growth Rate (%) Middlesex Centre 4.7 Strathroy -0.5 Adelaide-Metcalfe -1.3 Southwest Middlesex -2.3 North Middlesex -4.6 Lucan-Biddulph 8.3 Thames Centre 1.5 Figure 6: Population Growth Rate in Middlesex County (Statistic Canada, 2016) Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 20

22 2011 to 2016 Population Growth (%) Figure 7: Population growth rate within the Middlesex County Economic Growth According to Statistics Canada, the 2015 median after tax income for residents of Middlesex Centre was $92,151 per annum. To compare the median annual income for the combined residents of Ontario was $65,285 per annum. This represents a 41% higher median after tax income for the residents of Middlesex Centre. In comparison to the rest of Canada, Middlesex Centre s annual income earning is 50.2% higher. This statistic indicates a healthy financial status of the residents of Middlesex Centre. This income level is also an indication of possibilities for future economic growth and development within the Municipality. Electricity Consumption: Local utilities play an essential role in the development of CEPs. Access to reliable energy consumption data will enable residents to comprehend trends in consumption patterns. Hydro One is the local utility for Middlesex Centre and provided consumption data for the Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 21

23 development of the CEP. Below is electricity consumption data provided by Hydro One for the agriculture, commercial, residential and industrial sectors from 2013 to present. 80,000,000 70,000,000 60,000,000 50,000,000 Electricity Consumption kwh 40,000,000 30,000,000 20,000,000 10,000,000 - Agriculture Commercial Industrial Residential Figure 8: Sector-by-sector consumption of electricity from Local Utility. Agriculture Commercial Industrial Residential 2016 Electricity Consumption (kwh) 24,071,747 24,479, ,074 66,799, GHG Emissions 963, ,429 10,446 2,672, Electricity Consumption (kwh) 23,723,829 39,060, ,356 64,042, GHG Emissions 949,214 1,562,844 10,097 2,562, Electricity Consumption (kwh) 24,479,007 37,045, ,745 65,106, GHG Emissions 979,429 1,482,218 8,712 2,604, Electricity Consumption (kwh) 24,018,564 34,969, ,789 64,496, GHG Emissions 961,007 1,399,158 9,194 2,580,575 Figure9: Sector-by-Sector Electricity Consumption in Middlesex Centre ( ) Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 22

24 Analysis of electricity consumption in Middlesex Centre According to the Hydro One consumption data, the residential sector in Middlesex Centre consistently had the highest consumption of electricity from when compared to the other sectors. This was followed by the commercial sector and then the agriculture sector. The industrial sector had the least consumption of electricity. Appropriate energy efficiency measures could be adopted by the respective sectors to reduce energy consumption, especially residential. The benefit of such measures will be evident in the reduction of energy bills municipal residents will experience. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 23

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26 Time of Use (TOU) Pricing: One way to reduce residential electricity consumption is by taking full advantage of TOU pricing. At the current 2017 pricing, off-peak (7pm 7am) will cost a consumer 6.5 cent per kwh of usage. Mid-peak cost 9.5 cents and On-Peak cost 13.2 cents per kwh. Weekend and holidays are considered off-peak and consumers are charged 6.5 cents per KWh. Shifting household chores like laundry to weekends and after 7pm, will reduce residential energy consumption. A clothes dryer requires a lot of energy to operate because they need to spin and produce heat. The energy use of a dryer varies between 1800 watts and 5000 watts, a typical dryer will use around 3000 watts. Therefore doing your laundry during peak time or mid-peak will cause an incremental rise in your energy bills. Figure 10: TOU Pricing (2016/2017) 10 Other practices such a purchasing an ENERGY STAR rated products, which are designed to maximize energy efficiency will contribute to lesser residential electrical 10 See Hydro One website for more information on how to reduce residential energy consumption: Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 25

27 energy consumption. The following link provides additional information on how to reduce residential energy consumption: Natural Gas Consumption Natural gas is the predominant fuel for space heating in Middlesex Centre. Other fuels that are used for heating but are in the minority, are propane and heating oil. In consultation with Union Gas (the local utility), the natural gas consumption data for 2016 is shown below. Consumption is categorized as residential, commercial and industrial accounts. In reviewing consumption data from 2014 to present, there has been a decreased in natural gas usage. There are several factors that may influence this decrease such as warmer winters, but this should continue to be monitored over time Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 26

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29 Since 1997, Union Gas conservation programs have helped eliminate 11.8 million tonnes of CO 2 emissions, which is equivalent to taking 2 million cars off the road for one year. Middlesex Centre s, commercial, industrial and residential customers are able to take advantage of these conservation programs which include rebates and incentives from Union Gas that will contribute to greater reduced energy consumption. Union Gas offers a comprehensive portfolio of natural gas programs and analytical tools designed to help communities cut cost while conserving energy. For more information on Union Gas conservation programs you can go to: Natural Gas Consumption Delaware TWP 14% London TWP 44% Komoka 10% Kilworth Heights 17% Lobo TWP 15% Delaware TWP Komoka Kilworth Heights Lobo TWP London TWP Residential Sector Consumption: Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 28

30 Area 2016 Consumption (1,000m3) Delaware TWP 1, Komoka 1, Kilworth Heights 1, Lobo TWP 1, London TWP 5, Total Usage 11, Figure 11: Residential Sector: Natural gas consumption (2016) 6, , , , , , Commerical Natural Gas Usage 0.00 Kilworth Heights Komoka Delaware TWP Lobo TWP London TWP Total Usage 2015 Consumption (1000's m3) 2016 Consumption (1000's m3) Figure 12: Commercial Sector: Natural gas consumption (2015 & 2016). Commercial Sector Natural Gas Consumption: Area 2015 Consumption (1000's m3) 2016 Consumption (1000's m3) Kilworth Heights Komoka Delaware TWP Lobo TWP 1, , London TWP 3, , Total Usage 5, , Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 29

31 Figure 13: Commercial Natural gas consumption in 2015 and 2016 Middlesex Centre Energy Conservation & Demand Management Plan ( ): Ontario Regulation 397/11 enacted under the Green Energy Act, 2009, requires every public agency to prepare, publish and made available to the public, as well as implement energy conservation and demand management plans. A summary of the public agency s annual energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions for its operations must also be prepared and made available to the public. Middlesex Centre is a public agency and therefore is required to record the annual energy consumption in our facilities and develop a plan stating our goals for conserving and reducing energy consumption, proposed energy conservation measures and a description of renewable energy generation facilities and amount of clean energy produced. In order to comply with Reg. 397/11, Middlesex Centre has recorded and published energy consumption data for the years, 2011 through to This data has been submitted to the Ministry of Energy and is also available to the public on the municipal website. An Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan was developed in 2014 and approved by Council to outline the goals and objectives of the municipality with respect to conservation and reducing energy consumption. A target of 1% energy consumption per annum was set. To date, municipal staff has met the 1% reduced energy consumption and is well placed to exceed the 5% target by Financial Implications of Middlesex Centre Energy Savings: The 2014 Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan (ECDM) has contributed to approximately 917,599kWh of energy savings by reducing consumption. This energy savings translates to over $160,000 per annum in energy and maintenance cost savings which typically has a return on investment of six to ten years. Greater energy savings are 12 See Council approved CDM Report for past and future energy saving projects Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 30

32 anticipated for Middlesex Centre as a result of energy efficiency projects identified for 2016/2017. Some of the major projects that have been completed are: 1) The substantial conversion of inefficient high pressure sodium streetlights to LED. 2) The conversion to LED lighting technologies in 75% of all municipal properties/facilities to date. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 31

33 Combined Energy Consumption Breakdown (2011 & 2012) Propane 1,043, (2%) Grid Electricity, 2,817, (12%) Natural Gas, 19,998, (84%) Grid Electricity Natural Gas Fuel Oil Figure 14: Middlesex Centre combined energy usage for 2011 and 2012 Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 32

34 Natural Gas (m3) Electricity (kwh) Propane ( L) Figure 15: Annual energy consumption [natural gas, propane & electricity] at Middlesex Centre buildings and facilities. (Source 2012 Energy Consumption Data). Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 33

35 Net Zero Energy Coldstream Fire Hall: The flagship of sustainability in Middlesex Centre is the new Coldstream Fire Hall that is due to open in November of Middlesex Centre has received funding from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Green Municipal Fund for the construction of new 10,000 square foot municipal fire hall. The fire hall is being constructed as a net zero energy/net zero carbon low impact development. This new fire hall will replace the existing Coldstream Fire Hall which is over 100 years old and has issues with poor insulation and indoor air quality. A comprehensive Fire Services Master Plan undertaken by the IBI Group in 2013 recommended the immediate replacement of the Coldstream Fire Hall. The Canadian Housing and Mortgage Corporation defines a net zero energy building as a type of building that generates as much energy as the building consumes per annum. Though the design and construction of net zero energy buildings tend to focus on energy efficiency and renewable energy generation, they may also include technologies and practices that enhances indoor air quality and comfort, reduce environmental impact, conserve natural resources and improve affordability. This project will incorporate a 60kW solar photovoltaic system that will generate on-site renewable energy to offset the projected annual energy demand loading of the fire hall. A feasibility study of the sustainability portion of the fire hall showed a 9 year simple payback. The fire hall will also be equipped with net metering. The project is currently in the construction phase and is set for completion by the end of The economic benefit of a net-zero energy/carbon neutral fire hall is reduced energy consumption that will enable Middlesex Centre to attain its corporate energy reduction target of 5% by 2019 in terms of the municipal Energy Conversation & Demand Management Plan. Also, once completed; the Coldstream Fire Hall will contribute to the growing concept of net-zero energy/low carbon emissions construction in Ontario in accordance with the Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 34

36 Ontario Climate Change Action Plan and Climate Change & Low Carbon Economy Act of Figure 16: An Architectural Impression of new Coldstream Fire Hall: An Architectural Impression of new Coldstream Fire Hall Komoka Wellness Centre: Middlesex Centre can be described as a municipality striving to become environmentally sustainable with zero carbon foot print. This impressive facility comprises of two NHLsized ice rinks with six change rooms each and a combined seating capacity of The facility also contains a fitness centre with an indoor walking track and gymnasium. With a GREEN Globe Certification (i.e. a LEED equivalent) the Komoka Wellness & Recreation Complex stands as a beacon of sustainability. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 35

37 The Green Globe sustainability certification of the complex implies that there is improved indoor air quality for all patrons, less water and energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. In short, the overall environmental impact of the property is low thereby contributing to Provincial and global targets of reducing GHG 13 that causes climate change. The Wellness Centre has the highest energy consumption rate amongst all Middlesex Centre facilities with an average of 2,000,000kWh per annum electricity consumption. However, the 250KW Solar PV system situated on the roof-top of the Centre, off-sets a quarter of the energy consumed at the site. Operational controls such as adjusting overnight temperature set point of the ice rinks and a floating head pressure control upgrade 14, will contribute to significant energy savings in the coming years at the Wellness Centre. 13 Greenhouse Gases [CO 2 ]; Ref. Ontario Long term Energy Plan Air Emissions Forecast [Module 5). Retrieved from: 14 This energy efficiency measure involves the condensing pressure of the high stage ammonia refrigeration system to the minimum acceptable level based on outdoor air conditions and condenser performance ratings, whenever the system is not in heat recovery mode. Currently the facility operates at an average condensing pressure of 187 psig, 195 psig when the thermal equalizer is satisfied. Since reducing the condensing pressure reduces the pressure ratio within the compressor and dramatically improves compressor efficiency, there are significant energy savings (Extract from 2015 Preliminary Engineering Studies report) Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 36

38 Figure 17: Komoka Wellness & Recreational centre depicting solar panels on roof top. Waste Water Treatment Plants: For most Canadian municipalities, water and wastewater infrastructure is their largest energy cost facilities. The Municipality of Middlesex Centre s water and wastewater systems are no exception. With the assistance of the Save on Energy program and operational changes, staff at Middlesex Centre has seen a continual decrease in the energy consumption at two of their three waste treatment plants. Since 2014, energy savings at the Kilworth & Ilderton Wastewater Treatment Plants is over 120,000kWh, which translates into financial savings of over $5,000 per annum. Operations staff are continuously looking for ways to decrease energy consumption through process adjustments and optimization. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 37

39 Figure 18: Energy Usage Kilworth Waste Water Treatment Plant (Portfolio Manager) Figure 19: Energy Usage Ilderton Waste Water Treatment Plant (Portfolio Manager) Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 38

40 Figure 20: Energy Usage Komoka Waste Water Treatment Plant (Portfolio Manager) Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 39

41 Best Practices of Other Municipalities Some practical examples that other Municipalities have implemented to meet the four main goals of a Community Energy Plan: Reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gases Reduce energy cost Explore green energy opportunities and Local economic development initiatives. Though these other municipalities may be slightly bigger in terms of size, the underlying theme for their success was thinking sustainably and acting accordingly. Middlesex Centre has reviewed what has been accomplished by the City of Burlington, Oakville, Halton Hills and Clarington, what can be learnt from these successes and how to implement locally. Burlington s Renewable Energy Projects: Burlington has made tremendous strides in the utilization of renewable energy to reduce municipal operational costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In April of 2010, 90 solar collector panels supplying a total thermal energy of 325kW were installed at Tansley Woods Community Centre. The heat produced by this installation represents 25 per cent of the required heat loading needed to heat the centre s swimming pool. This project reduced the City s greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 67.5 tons each year, as well as reduced the City s hydro consumption by approximately 101,481 kwh per year and natural gas by 24,138 cubic metres. There was an annual energy savings of $27,033, which resulted in a pay back on the project of two years. Solar energy (PV) panels were also installed at Alton Secondary School, Library and Community Centre in north Burlington, along with a solar wall with a heat recovery system installed at the new Fire Station #8. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 40

42 Figure 21: An example of solar pool heating in RusTon Campground - Grand Bend Ontario. June 2016 Figure 22: Overview of Burlington Tansley Woods Community Centre Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 41

43 Oakville s Sustainable Corporate Energy Management Plan The Oakville Sustainable Corporate Energy Management Plan establishes the importance of energy conservation and the strategic management of energy usage. This Plan enabled Oakville to reduce their operational contributions of greenhouse gas emissions, reduce reliance on non-renewable fossil fuel sources and to support becoming a sustainable community. The Plan establishes baseline energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions for operations, identifies actions along with roles and responsibilities, performance measures and timeframe to better manage corporate energy sustainability. The Plan is comprehensive and serves to effectively integrate and manage responsibilities, plan implementation and impact assessment. Related procedures include Sustainable Purchasing and Sustainable Building Design. Figure 23: A portrait of down town Oakville Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 42

44 Halton Hills Green Development Checklist Halton Hills is a town in the Regional Municipality of Halton, located in the northwestern end of the Greater Toronto Area and has a population of approximately 61,161 (2016 Census Data). In 2010, Halton Hills Council approved a Green Development Evaluation Checklist for new residential developments. The creation of this checklist was based on the assumption that buildings consume over 30 per cent of energy. The intent of the checklist is to promote higher environmental building performance which will assist in achieving the Town s sustainability objectives. Considered as a first generation checklist, it consists of 23 criteria relating to Energy Conservation, Water Conservation and Quality, Transportation, Indoor Air Quality, Innovation and other Green Features. While the checklist is intended as a selfassessment tool for proponents, it is to serve as the preferred minimum baseline for all new major ground-related residential developments including sub-divisions and site plan applications. A key feature is a direction for all new ground-related residential homes to be constructed with Energy Star standards for new homes. A Green Development Standards has also been developed based on the Green Development Checklist. Figure 24: Cover of Green Development standards Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 43

45 Priority Green Clarington: The Municipality of Clarington is a lower-tier municipality with an approximate population of 84,500 situated in the Regional Municipality of Durham. Priority Green, was adopted by Council with the objective of promoting green residential development by encouraging developers and builders to use practices that reduce environmental impacts. Its focus is on efficient use of energy, water, land and other resources as a strategy to address climate change and improve the general environment. Priority Green development encourages developers and builders to use sustainable practices that have a positive impact on the receiving environment. In 2016, an audit on the first six houses built in accordance with the goals of Priority Green revealed that the water consumption was found to be 14% more efficient in comparison to average Code built homes. The demonstration homes also revealed a 10% reduction in energy use intensity, which is a comparison of the energy use of a building relative to its size. The reduction in energy intensity can be attributed in part to improved insulation, improved air tightness and duct sealing. An energy cost savings of $386 per annum was attained with the Priority Green demonstration homes. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 44

46 Figure 25: A Priority Green demonstration home under construction. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 45

47 Opportunities & Constraints Below are the initiatives Middlesex Centre are taking to become an environmentally sustainable municipality in adherence to its Strategic Plan. Development of Wellness Centre lands to affordable net zero energy housing. One of the operating highlights and key initiatives of Middlesex Centres 2017 budget, is to establish a net zero energy community behind the Wellness Centre in partnership with a Developer. In 2011, Middlesex Centre retained the services of Avi Friedman Consultants Inc. to propose a master plan that would examine the lands on either side of the Wellness Centre for a potential green housing development. The outcome from Avi Friedman review and consultations indicated that a mixed-use town centre in the surrounding lands will complement the recreational aspect of the Wellness Centre in Komoka. The plan further suggests affordable housing forms and innovative housing including live/work units. Green design were also strongly recommended and promoted in the Avi Friedman master plan See link for copy of full report: Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 46

48 Figure 26: Concept plan of Avi Friedman housing proposal Housing Needs Assessment: Based on Avi Friedman s report, SHS Consulting was retained by Middlesex Centre to prepare a Needs Assessment and Market Analysis of local ownership and rental housing markets to determine how the Municipality might achieve its goals and bring the residential component of Avi Freidman s report into fruition. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 47

49 The Needs Assessment and Market Analysis revealed several key findings which are: Population of household growth is expected to continue in Middlesex Centre Population is showing signs of aging Household composition is showing signs of diversifying Median income is comparatively high however a number of low income households Supply of rental housing is limited Housing stock is predominately single Development activity data shows residential potential House prices create affordability challenges for many households Request for Proposal: On October 17 th, 2017 the Municipality of Middlesex Centre posted a Request for Proposal for the Wellness Centre Lands Development. This proposal asks the proponents to meet the requirements of the Official Plan, as well as the key vision of Middlesex Centre for the development of the site by creating a green community. All buildings should follow the green standards set by the Wellness Recreation Centre, take advantage of the natural resources available, as well as incorporating design attributes and features including but not limited to: Walkable streets Building energy and efficiency Site design for habitat and water body conservation Tree lined and shaded streets Local food production (if possible) Access to civic and public space Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 48

50 The Municipality of Middlesex Centres Official Plan, further supports the project with the goal of developing these lands, based on the desire to achieve the following green goals and objectives: To create a green community that is environmentally sustainable based on the standard set by the Middlesex Centre Wellness Complex by ensuring the design and construction of buildings utilize green building practices. To encourage the generation of on-site renewable energy including but not limited to solar, wind and geo-thermal. To improve air quality and reduce cooling loads on buildings with the planting of shade trees along new and existing streets. To promote local food production to increase access to fresh produce by encouraging the growing of produce through the use of balconies, roof tops and community gardens. Figure 27: An example of the type of net-zero residential houses to be developed at the Wellness Centre. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 49

51 Figure 28: Sample of Avi Friedman s housing type at Wellness Centre Middlesex Centre Green Builder Award: In 2016, the Planning & Building Department of Middlesex Centre introduced the Green Builder s Recognition program. The main goal of this program is to encourage builders in Middlesex Centre to build more suitable and energy efficient homes. Following the example of municipalities such as Kelowna in British Columbia, a checklist was developed that awards points to builders that go beyond Building Code requirements in terms of energy efficient and sustainability features. If a builder accumulates 40 points, the building will be considered as a green build and the home homebuilder will be recognized as a green builder in the Municipality. At a Council Meeting on December 14 th 2016, three builders were recognized and received awards for their efforts and participation in the program. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 50

52 From left to right: Arnie Marsman (Director, Planning & Development Services/Chief Building Official Middlesex Centre); Blake and Mike Loyens (Riverstone Design & Build); Mike Wall (Wall to Wall Construction); Christian Tham (then Embedded Energy Manager Middlesex Centre); & Phil Masschelein (Sifton Properties). Figure 29: Recipients of Green Builder Recognition Program Award Green Fleet Plan Middlesex Centre is in the process of developing a Green Energy Fleet Plan for the Municipality. This study is being undertaken to explore the opportunities for Middlesex Centre to reduce greenhouse gases along with the optimization of vehicle replacement and capital purchases to ensure that the residents are receiving the best value and the fleet replacement is optimized. The review will includes the following: 1. Review of the Municipality s current fleet and historical data; 2. Developing a GHG baseline; 3. Completing a Best Management Proactive review; Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 51

53 4. Provide a life cycle analysis and recommendations; and, 5. Preparation of a Green Fleet Plan. Once the Green Fleet Plan has been approved, Middlesex Centre will have a clear direction on best practices associated with fleet management and the reduction of GHG. This process falls within Middlesex Centre s Strategic Theme, Quality of Life which promotes environmental initiatives in becoming an environmentally sustainable green community. The Objectives that Middlesex Centre is trying to achieve are: Environmental Promoting of environmental initiatives though the adoption of green initiatives. This will result in the reduction of Greenhouse gases through the purchase of electric vehicles and replacement of vehicles with improved fuel efficiency resulting in less fuel consumption. Social Leading by example with the purchase of electric vehicles and the installation of charging stations Economic Reducing overall fleet costs and improving of fleet reliability through the timely replacement of vehicles. Ontario Green Energy Act Ontario Green Energy Act (GEA) officially known as the Green Energy and Green Economy Act, 2009 was enacted to increase renewable energy production, encourage energy conservation and create green jobs. Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) programs such as micro- FIT and FIT are products of the Green Energy Act. The Micro-FIT program is designed for small non-commercial systems under 10 kilowatts. FIT, on the other hand is intended for larger commercial renewable energy projects under 500KW. Currently, Ontario has implemented a total of 24,550 micro-fit projects producing renewable energy to the grid. (See table below): Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 52

54 Fuel Category # of Contracts Contract Capacity (MW) Solar 24, Wind Grand Total 24, Figure 30: Total number of micro-fit projects in Ontario. The Independent Electricity Systems Operator (IESO) does not publish a list of current micro-fit projects in operation, but rather aggregate micro-fit data in the IESO s quarterly Progress Report on Contracted Electricity Supply 16. FIT Contract Projects in Middlesex Centre: Since the launched of the FIT programme in 2009, Middlesex Centre has a total of five FIT contract projects totalling 760KW. In comparison to the total existing projects of 3,542 in the province, Middlesex Centre has only contributed 0.14% of renewable energy through the FIT program. FIT Contract (Date) Type of Installation Capacity Installed Geographical Location 19-Aug-11 Solar PV (Roof-top) 80kW Denfield 2-Aug-12 Solar PV (Roof-top) 100kW Ilderton 9-Aug-11 Solar PV (Roof-top) 80kW Denfield 15-Nov-11 Solar PV (Roof-top) 250kW Komoka 9-Oct-16 Bioenergy - Biogas 250kW Ilderton Figure 31: List of FIT contract projects in Middlesex Centre 16 You can access this report through the link below: For more information: Phone: Toll-free: customer.relations@ieso.ca Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 53

55 Figure 32: A solar farm in a local municipality Analysis of Green Energy in Middlesex Centre: The performance of Middlesex Centre in the area of green energy generation has room for improvement. Out of the total of 3,542 projects in the province, Middlesex Centre can only boast of five existing projects. One of the long-term initiatives of the Municipality s Strategic Plan, is that the Municipality will adopt green initiatives such as solar power. One of the ways to achieve this goal will be for residents and businesses to participate in renewable energy initiatives such as net-metering and behind-the-meter projects respectively. Net Metering: Net Metering is a program whereby Middlesex Centre residents can reduce their net energy costs by generating renewable energy (e.g. solar) on site for their daily usage and sending surplus generated energy back onto the utility distribution system for credit against the energy cost. Residents participating in the Net Metering program will have the net energy charge on their hydro bill adjusted according to the Net Metering Regulation. Essentially, the customer will receive a credit or an adjustment on their monthly hydro bill for the energy Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 54

56 sent to the utility's grid up to, but not exceeding the value of the energy consumed from the utility's grid. If Net Metering customers return more power than they import during a billing period, their excess credit is carried over into their next billing period. Excess energy credits from successive billing periods can be carried-over for up to a maximum of ten months. Participation in the Net Metering Program is available to all Hydro One customers with a generator that meet all of the following conditions: The electricity is generated primarily for the customer's own use, The electricity generated is conveyed to the customer's own consumption point without reliance on the Hydro One distribution system, The maximum cumulative output capacity of the generator does not exceed 500 kw and The electricity is solely generated from a renewable energy source, such as wind, drop in water elevation, solar radiation, agricultural bio-mass, or any combination thereof. With the improvement of solar technology, solar shingles could be incorporated in new building and on existing roof-top to generate own energy. Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 55

57 Figure 33: Solar shingles in residential household renewable energy generation. The reasons why net metering using solar energy is an option worth considering: Generate Profit The price per watt in 1977 began at over $76. In 2015, it was down to $0.57/watt. That makes solar over 130 times cheaper within 38 years. Renewable, Clean Power Source Solar power is environmentally clean and does not emit any greenhouse gases, chemicals and pollutants. Reliable and Low Maintenance Solar panels have a 30+ year life expectancy and protect the shingles of your roof from harsh elements, thus increasing the lifespan of your roof. Solar panels require little to no maintenance once installed. Reduce Costs Solar panels generate the greatest amount of energy during onpeak periods when electricity is the most expensive. This will produce significant savings on annual residential hydro costs. Increased Property Value Installing solar panels on your home increases your property value and resale value significantly. Recent studies have shown that homes with solar panels sell 20% faster and for 17% more money 17. Forward Thinking Approach: Grid parity, which is where the cost of generating renewable energy for your consumption is the same or less than purchasing from the grid may soon be a possibility. Policy 17 See Forbes magazine article: Middlesex Centre Community Energy Plan Page 56