The Town of Collingwood is committed to reducing energy consumption, improving energy efficiency, and managing energy costs across municipal buildings and facilities.
The Energy Conservation and Demand Management (ECDM) Plan provides a framework for how the Town monitors energy use, identifies opportunities for improvement, and invests in energy savings initiatives. The ECDM Plan supports compliance with the Province of Ontario's energy reporting requirements while helping the Town reduce operating costs, improve asset performance, and support climate change goals.
By improving energy efficiency, the Town can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower utility costs, and ensure municipal facilities continue to serve the community effectively.
What is Energy Conservation and Demand Management?
Energy conservation and demand management involves using energy more efficiently and reducing unnecessary energy consumption without affecting the quality of municipal services.
Examples include:
• Upgrading heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems
• Improving building insulation and controls
• Converting lighting to energy-efficient LED technology
• Monitoring facility energy performance
• Optimizing building operations and maintenance practices
• Incorporating energy efficiency into facility upgrades and new construction
These measures help reduce energy use while improving the comfort, reliability, and performance of municipal facilities.
Our Energy Management Approach
The Town follows a continuous improvement approach to energy management that includes monitoring, planning, implementation, and reporting.
Measure and Monitor Energy Use
Tracking energy consumption helps the Town understand where and how energy is being used across its facilities. Regular monitoring identifies trends, opportunities for improvement, and areas where energy-saving measures may be most effective.
Set Goals and Priorities
The ECDM Plan, in conjunction with the Asset Management Plan and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Pathway Feasibility Study establishes priorities for improving energy performance and guides decision-making related to facility operations, maintenance, and capital investments.
Implement Energy Efficiency Projects
The Town continues to pursue energy-saving opportunities through building upgrades, equipment replacements, operational improvements, and capital projects designed to reduce energy consumption.
Track Results and Report Progress
Energy performance is reviewed regularly to measure savings, evaluate project outcomes, and identify future opportunities for improvement.
Supporting Climate Action
The Energy Conservation and Demand Management Plan supports the Town's Greener Collingwood Corporate Climate Change Action Plan by reducing energy-related greenhouse gas emissions from municipal operations.
Energy efficiency is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce emissions while maintaining high-quality municipal services. Together, these plans help the Town reduce its carbon footprint, improve operational efficiency, and support a more sustainable future.