Harnessing low carbon pathways to thermal energy provision : a multi-case study of Metro Vancouver, B.C.

Abstract

This research will explore the drivers and barriers that affect the implementation of renewable fuel sources in thermal energy provision in the Metro Vancouver region of B.C. Through a multi-case study methodology employing a grounded theory approach, district energy systems (DES), and discrete on-site thermal energy solutions (TES) in Metro Vancouver will be examined. The purpose of this research is to explore the economic, ecological, and social imperatives that affect the growth, and choice of fuel sources, of the DESs and TESs that will be analysed. As the population of our larger cities continues to grow, civic policy drivers are striving to build increasingly densified, transit connected urban nodes; innovative DES and TES technologies are an effective means of providing low carbon heat while growing synergistically within their communities. Cumulatively, the effect of carbon abatement by population dense urban centers globally will play a vital role in mitigating the severity of climate change. Through examining the growing low carbon thermal energy industry within Metro Vancouver, this research will extrapolate viable policy options that local governments can implement to encourage the development of locally sourced renewably generated thermal energy.