News

As part of the development of its Climate Plan, the Town of Mont-Saint-Hilaire has resolutely committed itself to the path of decarbonization. It has set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, in line with international, national and provincial efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. To support the city in this initiative, Énergère helped it carry out its GHG assessment and developed a customized decarbonization plan, aimed at reducing emissions by 40% by 2030, compared with 2021 levels.

MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS AT THE HEART OF THE PROJECT

Mont-Saint-Hilaire’s municipal buildings, such as the town hall, Sacré-Coeur school and Jordi-Bonet pavilion, account for over 50% of the town’s administrative emissions. To reduce their environmental impact, the decarbonization plan focuses on various optimization measures, including upgrading lighting to LED solutions, insulation work, adding automated control systems, and integrating renewable energy sources such as geothermal and heat recovery.

REDUCING FOSSIL FUEL CONSUMPTION

One of the main objectives of the decarbonization plan is to reduce fossil fuel consumption by 40% by 2030. This is a crucial choice in the City’s decarbonization strategy, which is in line with the Paris Agreement objectives of limiting global warming to below 1.5°. Fossil fuels such as natural gas and heating oil are among Mont-Saint-Hilaire’s main sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, particularly from energy-intensive municipal buildings.

To reduce this consumption and dependence on fossil fuels, measures have been proposed to improve the energy efficiency of buildings, reduce energy demand and replace natural gas with green electricity. This transition will not only reduce_CO2 emissions, but also generate significant savings over the long term.

A MODEL FOR OTHER MUNICIPALITIES

This project underlines the Town’s leadership and determination in the fight against climate change, and positions Mont-Saint-Hilaire as an example for other Quebec towns to follow. Through concrete actions, the municipality is demonstrating that it is possible to combine energy efficiency, sustainable development and community involvement. The plan developed by Énergère provides a clear roadmap for achieving climate objectives, while serving as an inspiration for other municipalities.

A COMMUNICATIONS PLAN TO ENGAGE MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES

In order to develop a strong commitment to this energy transition, the Ville de Mont-Saint-Hilaire also prioritized communication around this decarbonation plan, and commissioned Energère to draw up an internal communication plan. The aim of this plan is both to raise awareness of new energy practices among municipal employees and to structure key messages around the decarbonization plan.

SUBSIDIES TO SUPPORT THE APPROACH

As part of its decarbonization plan, the Town of Mont-Saint-Hilaire benefits from subsidies covering up to 75% of eligible expenses through programs such as Hydro-Québec’s ÉcoPerformance and Energir’s grants. This financial support makes it possible to reduce the costs associated with infrastructure modernization and the integration of clean energy technologies, thereby facilitating the achievement of GHG emission reduction targets.

CONCLUSION

The Mont-Saint-Hilaire decarbonization project, supported by Energère, embodies the town’s strong commitment to greater energy resilience and a sustainable future. By taking concrete action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve the energy efficiency of its buildings, the Town is demonstrating that it is possible to reconcile environmental performance with responsible management. With clear objectives and an ambitious roadmap, Mont-Saint-Hilaire is positioning itself as a model for other Quebec and Canadian municipalities. This project, which draws on Energère’s expertise, strengthens the ability of communities to take charge of their ecological transition, while engaging internal stakeholders and the community in this necessary change.