Ontario Construction News staff writer
The National Capital Commission and Hydro Ottawa Group have finalized a 99-year deal to create and manage a low-carbon district energy system at Le Breton Flats.
This system will supply heating and cooling to future buildings in the growing Ottawa neighborhood, replacing separate energy systems with a unified network.
The agreement grants Hydro Ottawa exclusive rights to build and operate the district energy system within the area outlined by the NCC’s Le Breton Flats Master Concept Plan.
This initiative will be supported by the federal government’s Energy Services Acquisition Program and aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing the reliability and durability of energy services.
“Through this new partnership with Hydro Ottawa Group, our government is ensuring that the rapidly growing Le Breton Flats area of Ottawa will emerge as one of Canada’s most low-carbon urban developments for decades to come,” said Joël Lightbound, minister of government transformation, public works and procurement and Quebec lieutenant.
The district energy system is essential to the NCC’s sustainability efforts for Le Breton Flats, which is expected to eventually host around 11,000 new residents.
The infrastructure is set up to grow as the community develops and will include future private projects, such as a major events center planned for the Ottawa Senators.
According to both parties, most of the energy used will come from clean sources through ESAP.
This centralized approach is also designed to offer long-term benefits for customers, keep energy costs competitive, and establish consistent energy standards throughout the neighborhood.
“Le Breton Flats represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a sustainable, inclusive and forward-looking community in the heart of Canada’s Capital Region,” said Tobi Nussbaum, chief executive officer of the NCC.
Hydro Ottawa noted that this agreement aligns with its strategic goals for 2026-30. It identifies district energy as an important business focus that supports local decarbonization efforts alongside their commitment to achieving net-zero operations.
This partnership fits into the wider redevelopment plans for Le Breton Flats, which is a significant urban development zone located just west of downtown Ottawa.
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