Hamilton – Canada’s pollution pricing system creates incentives for industries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions; drives innovation and sustainable business practices; and fosters a cleaner, more environmentally responsible future.
Through the Decarbonization Incentive Program, the Government of Canada returns a portion of the proceeds collected from the federal pollution price on large industrial emitters to support clean technology projects. This funding will enable eligible facilities to achieve greater energy efficiency, adopt sustainable solutions, and reduce their emissions to support the transition to a low-carbon world.
Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, announced on behalf of Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, an investment of approximately $9 million from pollution pricing proceeds in three Ontario universities through the Decarbonization Incentive Program. McMaster University, York University, and Western University will use this funding to undertake critical infrastructure improvements that directly tackle carbon emissions across their campuses. Together, these projects will cut over 35,000 tonnes of emissions in 2030.
McMaster University will receive $2,087,600 to reduce its natural gas usage for campus heating through the installation of electric boilers. Similarly, Western University will receive $4,745,000 for a four-year project to replace natural gas boilers with electric steam boilers. York University will receive $2,080,000 to upgrade its energy management system to make its heating and cooling more energy efficient.
By investing pollution pricing proceeds in these forward-thinking institutions, the Government of Canada is supporting their efforts to transition to lower-cost, renewable energy sources. Ultimately, this will benefit Canadians and communities across the nation, as cleaner air and reduced emissions contribute to improved health and well-being for all citizens.
The Government of Canada remains committed to addressing climate change and recognizes the vital role that academic institutions play in driving meaningful solutions through environmental leadership. Through partnerships and projects like these ones, the Government of Canada can accelerate collective efforts to build a sustainable and prosperous future for all Canadians.
“By returning pollution pricing proceeds to these three universities for emission reduction projects, we are empowering Canadian institutions to lead the way in fighting climate change. This strategic investment demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to fostering innovative solutions and collaborating with Canada’s industrial sectors as we transition to a low-carbon world. Together, we can make a significant impact and create a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous Canada.” -Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change
“Today’s announcement to return pollution pricing proceeds to fund industrial decarbonization projects is a significant step forward in achieving Canada’s climate goals. These three projects will not only bring about a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in Ontario, but also inspire other institutions and communities to take meaningful action towards building a sustainable future for all Canadians.” – Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario