Energy consumption in the commercial and institutional building sector accounts for almost 17% of secondary energy use in Canada and almost 13% of the country’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, approximately 60 Mt of CO2 equivalent in 2006.
CanmetENERGY develops the expertise and technologies that help to progressively lower barriers and move towards net-zero energy buildings. Its activities aim to reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions of commercial and institutional buildings while improving the comfort of occupants and the air quality.
Optimizing energy use
CanmetENERGY’s science & technology (S&T) activities provide the necessary tools to effectively manage energy use in commercial and institutional buildings. They combine advanced practices and technologies into the design and operation of buildings to ensure efficient operation while preserving the quality of the environment. This includes:
- Building operation optimization (commissioning, recommissioning, etc.)
- Refrigeration in arenas, curling rinks, supermarkets and warehouses
- Heat pumps as the central element for effectively managing a thermal energy system
Integration of clean energy
CanmetENERGY also aims to integrate the various energy sources available (alternative energy and excess energy from certain buildings) in order to maximize renewable energy use. This includes:
- lntegration of photovoltaic (PV) systems in buildings