Reducing the use of fossil fuels: A bonus for your buildings

There are 475,000 buildings in Montréal. The potential for reducing energy consumption and GHG emissions is significant. The city owns 1,750 of these buildings. Specifically, it has made a commitment to:

• Replace the use of fossil fuels (such as natural gas, fuel oil and propane) in municipal buildings with renewable energy.
• Strengthen regulations pertaining to energy efficiency and encourage the construction of sustainable buildings.
• Gradually eliminate fuel oil heating systems throughout the city.
• Develop a financial assistance program geared to building owners in order to support eco-friendly renovations.

All small, medium and large businesses can take action to improve the energy efficiency of their buildings. If you are a business owner, you can:

• Convert your heating system to hydroelectricity, a source of renewable energy produced in Québec. GHG emissions generated by heating with hydroelectricity are 100 times lower than those generated by heating with natural gas.
• Use LED light bulbs, which are more sustainable and energy-efficient. Your company will reduce its energy consumption and thus save on its hydro bills.

• Completely shut down your computers and electronic devices when they are not in use, which can reduce their annual electricity consumption by up to 40 per cent.
• Consider renewable energy sources, such as solar heating, and favour natural lighting and ventilation.

You can also take action at home to protect the environment. For example, you can:

• Replace your fuel oil or natural gas heating system with one that uses electricity. An electrical system pollutes 160 times less than a fuel oil heating system. You can also get financial assistance under the Chauffez vert program. In addition, the city will help low-income households replace their fuel-oil heating systems.
• Carry out eco-friendly renovations by properly insulating your home. You will emit fewer GHGs and save on heating. For example, opt in favour of Energy Star-certified windows and optimal caulking (in French) for year-round thermal comfort. Energy Star windows also optimize natural ventilation in summer and allow you to maximize natural lighting, which will reduce your energy costs.
• Use sun-blocking equipment (blinds) to improve your heating in winter and keep your home cool in summer.
• Shut off electronic devices (computers, televisions, etc.). Even in sleep mode, these devices consume energy. Unplug them: you could save up to 10 per cent on your hydro bills.