How can we heat our houses without natural gas?
We can transition off of natural gas by reducing energy use and switching to heat pumps and electric heating. Reducing energy use, through deep retrofits and more energy efficient building practices, require upfront investment but can deliver substantial energy savings of more than 50%. Making our buildings more efficient without fossil fuels can include upgrading the building envelope (walls, roof, basement, windows, doors, etc.), a switch to geothermal energy, and installation of on-site/rooftop solar panels.
What are heat pumps and how do they work? Are heat pumps strong enough to heat our homes in the middle of winter?
Geothermal heating systems (or more accurately ground-source heat pumps) use electricity to extract heat from below the ground surface and use it to heat buildings. This process can be reversed to cool buildings in the summertime.
Although individual heat pump systems can be installed for each building, district heating systems that connect multiple buildings together will allow for increased efficiency. These systems could be installed under laneways, roadways, parking lots, athletic fields, and other public property. Installation in areas like this reduces the disruption to individual properties and improves cost efficiency.
Why do we need more renewable energy when we already have the cleanest electricity in Canada from hydro power?
Electricity accounts for 24% of all energy consumed in Manitoba, and nearly all of it is generated without burning fossil fuels. While Manitoba’s electricity sector is already over 95% fossil-fuel free, demand for electricity is expected to more than double in the coming decades, putting a strain on the system and requiring more generating capacity to be built beyond existing dams. Our grid is also vulnerable to the risk of drought and extreme weather events, made worse by climate change.
Manitoba Hydro estimates that we would require an additional 7,000 MW of generation to electrically heat the buildings that are currently heated with natural gas. This power must be “dependable”. This means it must be available upon demand, when temperatures drop to -30C. Given the destructive impacts of Manitoba’s megadams for Indigenous and northern communities, the province should look to invest in wind, solar, small-scale hydro, and geothermal energy to meet growing demand, in tandem with energy efficiency measures. Expanding renewable energy should be done in full partnership with Indigenous Nations in Manitoba, and with engagement of local communities that will be affected.
What are the benefits of public investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency?
We have a responsibility in Manitoba to take action on climate change and move away from fossil fuels to prevent worsening wildfires, droughts, heatwaves, and other impacts. But this transition also presents a huge opportunity to build home-grown green industries, create well-paying jobs, advance true reconciliation, and build healthier homes and communities. Proactive planning and smart energy policy now will also ensure there is enough clean energy for future generations.
