The Government of Canada has embarked on a transformative journey with the Energy Services Acquisition Program (ESAP) to work towards Canada’s broader environmental goals and commitments under international climate change agreements like the Paris Agreement. These initiatives aim to modernize the National Capital Region’s (NCR) energy infrastructure, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote energy efficiency.
Understanding ESAP and ESM
The Energy Services Acquisition Program (ESAP) is a comprehensive initiative by Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) to modernize and optimize the heating and cooling systems that serve over 80 buildings in the NCR, including Parliament Hill. The program’s primary goals are to enhance energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the energy systems.
Under the umbrella of ESAP, the Energy Services Modernization project (ESM) focuses specifically on upgrading the district energy system (DES) that heats and cools these buildings. The modernization project involves transitioning from outdated steam-based systems to more efficient low-temperature hot water systems for heating and electric chillers for cooling. This shift is expected to significantly reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Tomasz Smetny-Sowa, ESAP’s Senior Program Director at PSPC, highlighted the environmental impact of the project: “The entire system will be in a position to be carbon neutral by 2030. This will make it one of the greenest district energy systems of its kind and scale”.
The Significance of Modernization
“Modernizing our district energy systems will help us reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ensure we are more energy efficient,” said Carla Qualtrough, Former Minister of Public Services and Procurement Canada.
By replacing the aging steam systems with state-of-the-art low-temperature hot water, installing electric chillers and installing electric boilers at the Gatineau Energy Centre, ESAP will , achieve a 92 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2026, compared to the 2005 baseline. This reduction is a substantial contribution to Canada’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and its broader climate goals.
These efforts will also enhance the reliability and resilience of the energy systems—crucial for handling fluctuations in demand, ensuring uninterrupted service to critical government buildings. “This initiative is a great example of a long-term and strategic investment that is good for the environment, the economy, and Canadians,” says Smetny-Sowa.
Impact on Local Communities
ESAP has far-reaching implications for the local communities in the National Capital Region. The transition to more efficient energy systems is expected to lead to cleaner air and a healthier environment overall for residents.
The project serves as a model for other municipalities and institutions across Canada, says Smetny-Sowa. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of modernizing energy infrastructure, ESAP can inspire similar initiatives nationwide.
“The modernization of the district energy system is an important step towards building a more sustainable future. It demonstrates our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint and improving the quality of life for residents,” says Steve MacKinnon, Former Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement Canada.
Project Funding and Financial Viability
Funding for ESAP is a critical aspect of their success. The Canadian government has allocated substantial financial resources to ensure the successful execution of these initiatives. The total investment in the modernization efforts is approximately $1.3 billion.
This investment is not only a testament to the government’s commitment to sustainability but also a strategic financial decision. The transition to more efficient energy systems is expected to result in significant cost savings over the long term. Reduced energy consumption and lower maintenance costs will offset the initial investment, making the projects financially viable and sustainable.
Infrastructure projects of this magnitude inevitably lead to job creation and economic stimulation, and the ESAP is are no exception. The modernization efforts have created numerous jobs in the construction, engineering, and technology sectors. Moreover, the projects have engaged local businesses and suppliers, further boosting the regional economy. The procurement of materials, equipment, and services from local vendors ensures that the economic benefits of the projects are distributed within the community.
“The Energy Services Acquisition Program is not just about upgrading our energy systems; it’s also about creating jobs and stimulating the economy. We’re proud to support local businesses and create employment opportunities through this initiative,” says Qualtrough.
The Energy Services Acquisition Program represents a bold and forward-thinking approach to modernizing Canada’s energy infrastructure. The successful completion of ESAP will be a new benchmark for energy infrastructure modernization in Canada. The lessons learned and best practices developed during these initiatives can be applied to similar projects across the country and beyond underscoring the importance of government leadership in driving sustainable development and climate action.
For more information, please visit www.canada.ca/en/public-services-procurement.html
