Vancouver - A national research initiative was announced today that would accelerate the implementation of district energy systems in urban centres across Canada.

The announcement was made today at the Canadian District Energy Association's 11th Annual conference in Vancouver, British Columbia. The Canadian District Energy Association (CDEA), the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI), and the Toronto Atmospheric Fund (TAF) have partnered to undertake a national research initiative that will examine the practical methods that local decision makers can use to undertake successful district energy developments in their communities.

The Urban Energy Solutions project has been made possible through a contribution of $160,075 by Infrastructure Canada and $25,000 by the Toronto Atmospheric Fund. Infrastructure Canada's Knowledge-building, Outreach and Awareness (KOA) program supports research, knowledge and outreach activities and products aimed at improving the understanding of public infrastructure and community issues in Canada.

"Urban Energy Solutions is an innovative, national initiative that will help address the challenges and expand the market opportunities for district energy in Canadian communities," said Bruce Ander, Chair of the Canadian District Energy Association. "The program will focus on the operation of successful district energy systems while promoting understanding on how to develop new systems across Canada."

"The heating, cooling and power supplied by district energy systems can help meet the growing energy needs of cities and businesses. When integrated with sound community planning and modern urban design strategies, district energy can contribute greatly to a renewed public realm," said David Crombie, President and CEO of the Canadian Urban Institute.

"Today's district energy systems are helping cities around the world meet their energy conservation goals, improve air quality, stimulate economic investment through brownfield redevelopment and contribute to the provision of affordable housing," added Phil Jessup, Executive Director of the Toronto Atmospheric Fund.

District energy is a key solution for those communities struggling to meet energy supply challenges while ensuring a high quality of life, and improvements to our environment. The Urban Energy Solutions program is directed at assisting government decision makers, research institutes, energy practitioners, investors and industry associates to address the challenges, find solutions, and enhance knowledge about district energy applications. For more information on the Urban Energy Solutions project, please visit http://www.cdea.ca/decrc

Media Contact:
Brent Gilmour, Project Manager
416-365-0816 ext 228