While the Ontario…

While the Ontario sustainable energy Association supports the extension of the framework and the combination of the natural gas and electric utlities,we suggest that there be much more recognition of the need for a holistic approach when providing conservation incentives. The building envelope improvement options should be included so that the HVAC loads are reduced prior or as part of the rerofit project so the the new HVAC that is more efficient can serve the lower demand offering savings in both areas. As well building automation systems are now more integrated so that the needs for clean air, comfort, proper lighting and decarbonization benefits can be achieved. Incentives for energy management controls that are used in both gas and electric applications should be better funded. Investments in smart and grid connected buildings should be prpomoted and the non energy benefits like increased productivity and learning, less sickness and faster health issue recovery should also be considered. On site renewable energy options with storage should be promoted so that the savings in energy costs for the conservation could be used to provide cleaner energy. Our members and contacts have already seen the value of renewables and energy efficiency and many of them provide the technologies that save energy. clean the air and offer other non energy benefits.