In 2021, building on our deep-rooted commitment to environmental sustainability, our Board proudly endorsed our ambitious pledge to achieve net-zero operations by 2030 – a groundbreaking commitment that positioned Hydro Ottawa Limited as the first municipally-owned utility in Canada to set such a target. Furthermore, we are actively shaping a smart energy future for our city, empowering Ottawa residents, businesses, and institutions to significantly reduce their own energy footprint and embark on their own journeys to net zero.
A crucial aspect of our progress involves diligently tracking and reducing our Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These categories provide a clear picture of our direct and indirect environmental impact.
Here’s an update on our progress in reducing our corporate emissions:
| Metric |
2022 (metric tonnes) |
2023 (metric tonnes) |
| Scope 1 GHG emissions |
2,505 |
1,914 |
| Scope 2 GHG emissions |
5,692 |
5,846 |
Understanding Scope 1 and Scope 2 Emissions:
Scope 1 emissions directly result from our owned or controlled sources. This includes emissions from our fleet vehicles, the consumption of natural gas in our facilities, and emissions of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), a potent greenhouse gas used in electrical equipment.
Scope 2 emissions are indirect emissions stemming from the generation of purchased electricity that we consume, as well as losses that occur during the transmission and distribution of that electricity (line losses).
As we move forward on our path to net zero by 2030, we remain dedicated to celebrating our collective achievements. We will continue to prioritize our customers, collaborate closely with governments, community partners, and industry leaders, safeguard the environment, and invest in our talented employees. Our focus on transparently tracking and reducing our Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions underscores our unwavering commitment to a sustainable future for Ottawa.
