The False Creek Neighbourhood Energy Utility uses waste thermal energy captured from sewage to provide space heating and hot water to buildings in Southeast False Creek, parts of Mount Pleasant, False Creek Flats, and Northeast False Creek.
This recycled energy eliminates more than 60% of the greenhouse gas pollution associated with heating buildings. The utility is self-funded, simultaneously providing a return on investment to City taxpayers and affordable rates to customers.
The utility began operations in 2010 and since then has rapidly expanded to serve 534,000 m2 (5,750,000 ft2) of residential, commercial, and institutional space as of 2019. In February 2018, Council approved the expansion of the utility to Mount Pleasant, Northeast False Creek, and the False Creek Flats areas. Once the expansion area is fully built-out, the NEU expects to serve 2,100,000 m2 (22,600,000 ft2) and anticipates a 14,000 tonne reduction of CO2-equivalent per year.
Related initiatives
Neighbourhood Energy Strategy
The Neighbourhood Energy Strategy will help develop additional neighbourhood energy systems throughout Vancouver.
Greenest City Action Plan
Greenest City is a bold initiative that addresses Vancouver's environmental challenges.
Renewable City Action Plan
The City of Vancouver has committed to becoming a renewable city with 100% of our energy coming from renewable resources by 2050.
Climate Emergency Response
Vancouver is joining hundreds of cities around the world in declaring a climate emergency and committing to reduce emissions locally.