Many of the University of Waterloo's campus buildings were built at a time when insulation, air sealing, and thermal bridging were not major concerns. Consequently, these buildings are not optimal for saving energy and are a large source of greenhouse gas emissions. How can we improve these buildings by prioritizing high-performance building envelopes?
Climate Change and Energy
We all know that it is bad to waste electricity. Since we have knowledge on peak electricity demand days, we can take steps to reduce our electricity use. How do we go about doing this?
Is there a potential for ground source heat pumps in existing buildings on campus? How can we implement UN Sustainable Development Goals 7 and 13, for affordable and clean energy and climate action?
The University of Waterloo has a large untapped potential for renewable energy production that can reduce peak electricity demand and greenhouse gas emissions. Renewable energy systems are an important solution to the climate crisis and can also reduce the power draw during the five peak demand days that impact electricity costs throughout the year.
How can Waterloo expand deployment of renewables on campus? Where would they make sense to go? What is their generation potential, and what is the financial commitment and payback? What other considerations should be explored?