ENSURE ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE, RELIABLE, SUSTAINABLE AND MODERN ENERGY FOR ALL
The goals of SDG 7 are universal access to modern energy services with increasing renewable energy generation and energy efficiency. The focus for the University of Waterloo has been on developing the technologies for clean energy generation and addressing the barriers to their implementation.
Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Energy
The Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Energy recognizes that the energy issues facing our society are complex. That's why over 100 experts are drawn from dozens of different disciplines spanning all six faculties. Energy issues also involve multiple stakeholders. The institute works closely with utilities, private-sector partners, government, and the non-profit sector in 36 countries around the world to ground their work in real-world issues. It offers their partners the full spectrum of energy research and development, education and training, and commercialization activities, as well as student internship and education opportunities regarding sustainable energy access.
Affordable Energy for Humanity Global Change Initiative
The Affordable Energy for Humanity Global Change Initiative is a global consortium of researchers and practitioners committed to ending energy poverty through the sustainable deployment of clean technology. The initiative brings members together on joint projects to scope and develop impactful interventions, and through supporting student involvement and other stakeholders in the energy access sector. The University of Waterloo is a founding partner.
Waterloo Centre for Electrochemical Energy
The Waterloo Centre for Electrochemical Energy fosters collaborative and interdisciplinary research on electrochemical energy storage and conversion materials and systems. They collaborate with industry and government agencies to develop cleaner, more efficient and environmentally friendly energy technologies for portable electronics, electric vehicles, fuel cell vehicles, portable and stationary backup power supplies, and smart grid systems. These new energy technologies will protect and clean our air, water, and soil while improving the competitiveness of Canadian industry and the standard of living of Canadians.
University of Waterloo Student Energy
University of Waterloo Student Energy is a group of students dedicated to understanding their role in the global energy transition. They enjoy learning more about clean energy through engaging discussions with faculty members and participating in energy challenges. They are excited to think of creative solutions to address clean energy access challenges all over Canada and the world. They believe that access to a reliable source of energy is essential to success in all aspects of life!
University of Waterloo Alternative Fuels Team
The University of Waterloo Alternative Fuels Team was established in 1996 by a group of Engineering students who wanted to make a difference. With a passion for cars—designing, building, and driving them—and also awareness of environmental consequences, the team is focused on finding viable alternatives to fuel the cars of the future. They participate regularly in sustainable design competitions, including the ongoing EcoCAR3 challenge.
District Energy System
The University of Waterloo is serviced by a district energy system, with a central plant that moves energy between buildings. Numerous investments have been made over the years to improve the efficiency of the network, including systems to recover waste heat, insulating pipes, reducing steam pressure, and installing more efficient pumps and motors. Decarbonizing the system will be an ongoing effort of Waterloo’s climate action plan.
