Hurricane-like changes in the energy landscape are underway. As the world transitions to renewable energy sources, utilities are shifting their focus to support their customers with innovative solutions. Hydro-Québec, the largest electricity distributor in Québec, has embarked on a transformative journey with three ambitious initiatives worth $2 billion. The utility giant aims to address the energy needs of all its customers, from households to industrial users, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting the local economy.
The first initiative, Customized Support for Industrial Customers, is designed to help industries optimize their energy consumption and reduce costs. By providing technical and financial support, Hydro-Québec is working with its industrial customers to implement energy-efficient practices. This includes upgrading standards to enhance the energy efficiency of buildings and industries, which is expected to contribute 25 per cent of total energy savings.
Here are some key aspects of the Customized Support for Industrial Customers initiative:
- Updated standards for energy efficiency will be developed in collaboration with the government, focusing on building and industrial energy efficiency.
- Customized support will be provided to help industries reduce operating and maintenance costs.
- The initiative is expected to contribute 25 per cent of total energy savings.
Another significant initiative is the Canadian Smart Thermostats Program for Residential Customers. This program offers financial support for the purchase of smart devices and heat pumps, enabling households to reduce their energy consumption and bills. With a target deployment of over one million devices, the program is expected to play a crucial role in promoting energy efficiency and reducing the carbon footprint of Québec households.
Key features of the Canadian Smart Thermostats Program include:
- Financial support for the purchase of smart devices and heat pumps.
- A target deployment of over one million devices.
- The program is available to all Québec households, including tenants and vulnerable customers.
Lastly, Hydro-Québec is launching the Alliance for Exemplary Buildings for Commercial and Institutional Customers. This initiative aims to encourage managers of large buildings to adopt best practices in energy efficiency. The alliance will focus on improving heating, ventilation, and lighting management, taking into account occupancy hours. Financial support will also be available under the Efficient Solutions Program for small- and medium-sized businesses to acquire equipment that can reduce their energy bills by up to 20%.
Key aspects of the Alliance for Exemplary Buildings initiative include:
- Better management of heating, ventilation, and lighting, tailored to occupancy hours.
- Financial support under the Efficient Solutions Program for small- and medium-sized businesses.
- The program aims to encourage managers of large buildings to adopt energy-efficient practices.
“Our pathway is the most ambitious in Hydro-Québec’s history,” said Dave Rhéaume, Executive Vice President, Commercial Activities and Chief Customer Officer, Hydro-Québec. “It will allow us to save 10% of all the electricity we consume in Québec, at the lowest cost compared to all possible sources of electricity supply. We can then use it to support the economy and our collective well-being.”
“The initiatives will enable us to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support the local economy, creating a sustainable future for our customers and the community. Our goal is to be a leader in the energy sector, providing innovative solutions that benefit everyone.”
The initiatives by Hydro-Québec demonstrate the utility’s commitment to supporting its customers with innovative solutions. By investing $2 billion in these programs, the company is poised to make a significant impact on the energy landscape in Québec.
