Canadian Energy Efficiency Outlook: A National Effort for Tackling Climate Change

Pierre Langlois, Econoler’s president, and Geneviève Gauthier, Econoler’s national director for consulting services, have co-authored the book, Canadian Energy Efficiency Outlook: A National Effort for Tackling Climate Change. They have written the book in collaboration with energy efficiency experts from each province and territory of the country, in both the public and private sectors.

Canadians are among the most energy-intensive societies in the world and there is still huge unrealized potential for pursuing energy efficiency in Canada. Quite a number of interesting programs and initiatives have been implemented across the country by governmental bodies, though many financially rewarding actions across the economic sectors could help reduce energy consumption, save a total of billions of dollars each year, reduce our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, create jobs and improve our businesses’ profitability.

Most institutional responsibilities related to energy efficiency fall into provincial or territorial jurisdiction. Hence, each provincial or territorial government regulates this sector through laws, regulations and incentives. Across Canada, the desire to create jobs, reduce energy costs and GHG emissions and reduce the need for new energy-production infrastructure is the factor having a major influence on the development of energy efficiency.

In this overview, the authors have identified good practices as well as missed opportunities across Canada. Among the missed opportunities is the transportation sector, a highly overlooked sector. In general, it is especially a lack of information and knowledge that is hindering the development of energy efficiency. Among the good practices is the recently launched Quebec energy transition effort.

 

 

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