The Ontario government introduces revised standards for energy reporting and conservation that are applicable to particular public sector entities. This regulation is designed to advance energy management practices and accountability among public agencies in Ontario. Ontario Regulation 25/23 supersedes the previous Regulation 507/18.

Under this regulation, all designated public agencies are mandated to develop and implement an energy conservation and demand management (ECDM) plan. This plan must receive approval from the agency’s senior management before being made publicly accessible on the agency’s website and available in printed form at its head office. The intent is to enhance transparency and accountability regarding energy use and conservation practices.

The ECDM plans must encompass comprehensive details, including:

• • • Annual Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A summary of emissions from each operation for the year.
    • Previous Measures: A report on prior energy conservation initiatives and their outcomes.
    • Cost Estimates: An analysis of current and projected costs and savings associated with energy conservation measures.
    • Renewable Energy: Information on any renewable energy facilities and their annual output.
    • Energy Utilization: Descriptions of any ground source or solar energy technologies employed or planned by the agency.
    • Approval Confirmation: Proof that the plan has been sanctioned by senior management.

Public agencies are required to compile and submit annual summaries of their energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. These summaries must include:

• • • The name and address of the building or facility.
    • The total floor area and type of building.
    • The total energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions for the year.
    • Any special conditions, such as temporary classrooms or indoor swimming pools, if applicable.

These summaries should be submitted via the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager system to the Ministry by July 1 of the following year. Deadlines for summaries for the years 2021 through 2023 have been extended to facilitate compliance. Commencing July 1, 2024, and every five years thereafter, public agencies are required to update and publish their ECDM plans on their websites and in printed form.

In summary, Ontario Regulation 25/23 aims to elevate energy conservation and reporting standards by enforcing detailed planning and regular updates from key public agencies. This regulation is designed to promote greater accountability and effective energy management throughout the province’s public sector.

Source: Ontario 25/23, March 11, 2023.