DRAFT

2.6.4 ENERGY
The impact of fossil fuel use on the environment is well known; climate change,
air and water pollution are all a result from our dependence on nonrenewable
energy sources. Yet people rely on energy to feed themselves, heat and cool their
homes, move people and goods, and run the economy. Putting in place
sustainable energy strategies that reduce the Regional Centre’s dependence on
nonrenewable energy will go a long way in creating healthier environments not
only for native flora and fauna, but people as well.
District Energy
a) Consider the creation of a district energy facility in areas of high growth and
density, such as Downtowns, Centres, or Future Growth Nodes.
District Cooling
b) Consider working with utilities to accommodate deep water cooling.
Waste Energy Capture
c) Identify opportunities to capture and redistribute waste energy.
Building Certification
d) Consider designing and building all new municipal facilities within the
Regional Centre to show leadership in sustainable building design, and at a
minimum achieve a LEED silver certification, or an equivalent level in a
similar certification system.
Solar Energy
e) HRM shall consider incentives for, and incorporate solar capture
technologies throughout the Regional Centre.
Solar Panel Exemptions
f) HRM shall exempt solar panels from building height requirements and
rooftop mechanical coverage.
DRAFT
2.6.5 LAND
Land within the Regional Centre can be used more sustainably by supporting
local food production, removing greenhouse gasses through street trees, and
conserving environmentally sensitive areas. Access for city dwellers to natural
environments, for health, leisure, and recreation purposes, become increasingly
important as urban areas become denser.
38 | Centre Plan: Policy Direction