York University is proud to be an institution that changes with the times, and that includes its energy management strategy. 

As concerns about climate change grow, York plans to shift its electricity supply toward the 93 per cent emission-free Ontario power grid and away from onsite electricity production at the co-generation plant that consumes natural gas. The plant, which produces approximately 60 per cent of Keele Campus’ electricity requirements, offered financial savings at a time when that was a top concern. 

However, says Steve Prince, the university’s director of utilities and energy management, electricity production from the co-generation plant is also responsible for 24,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases (GHGs). As a result, York is looking toward a transition to purchased electricity by July 2023, using the co-generation plant largely for cost savings during peak periods and as a backup in the event of a disruption. This shift will contribute to York’s ability to achieve its target of a 45 per cent reduction in GHGs by 2030, compared to its 2005 baseline. 

In addition, York plans to have energy meters installed in all campus buildings by July 2023, allowing for data collection and evaluation. The real-time data about energy use on campus will be available on a public platform. This information will also assist in identifying major energy users, allowing a tactical response to reducing our need for utilities.

 “We plan to establish key performance indicators and targets with real-time data that can be utilized in a Campus-as-a-Living-Lab setting,” Prince says. Prince would like to see classes use the university’s actual operating data in their studies and would like to see the interest extending to residences – re-establishing the former Race To Zero in a digital world. 

 “We can envision a competition between residences to see who has the lowest energy use,” he says. “If we can engage and empower the student population in our emissions reduction mission, we will be successful. In fact, I can picture future generations of students demanding that York be accountable for its environmental footprint and insisting on reducing it.” 

 The university is exploring opportunities through a renewed Energy Management Group and will start the process of recommissioning all mechanical spaces and HVAC systems on campus. This initiative will drive lower campus emissions and improve system efficiency, all while maintaining safe airflows and air quality for all occupants. 

 “We continue to tighten the operation to be sure we’re as effective and efficient as can be in delivering services,” Prince says. “It’s all part of the strategy to ensure that York is carbon neutral by 2049.” 

 “It’s very exciting to have the opportunity to do work that has an impact on York’s carbon footprint. The work we are doing will change the landscape of the University forever.”