Community Energy Plan Update

Newmarket's updated Community Energy Plan (CEP) is now available!

Explore the revised plan to learn more about the pathway toward a net-zero future.

Overall, Newmarket is aiming to achieve an 85% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, based on 2021 GHG levels, with interim targets of a 12% reduction by 2031, and a 65% reduction by 2041

The updated CEP outlines key actions to lower emissions and enhance energy efficiency across five priority areas:

1. Efficient Buildings
2. Sustainable and Inclusive Transportation
3. Clean Energy for All
4. Sustainable Waste Management
5. Leadership and Communication

Transportation and residential buildings have been identified as the critical sectors for near-term emissions reductions. Achieving progress in these areas will require a transition away from fossil fuels, both for vehicles and home heating, toward low-emission electricity.

Through this plan, the Town of Newmarket aims to lead in municipal sustainability and climate resilience. By aligning with local and global energy and emissions targets, the CEP provides a clear roadmap to a cleaner, more energy-efficient future for the community.

Solar Panels installed on the roof of the Magna Centre

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What is a Community Energy Plan?

A Community Energy Plan (CEP) is an initiative developed by the municipality to reduce the community's net environmental impact. This is done by introducing sustainable practices throughout a multitude of sectors.

The CEP identifies opportunities for green energy solutions and conservation measures to support local economic development and community objectives of energy conservation and GHG reduction.

Newmarket's CEP is one of the first in Ontario. The Plan sets clear targets for GHG emission reductions with clear actions for achieving those results.

Background

To ensure sustainable energy management, the Community Energy Plan (CEP) was created and approved by Council in 2016, and later was rebased in 2019 to reflect a 2017 energy baseline. No changes were made to the CEP’s strategic actions when it was rebased.

The CEP lays out a pathway to demonstrate leadership in energy management at the community level, support the local economy, and positions Newmarket to respond to changes in legislation and capitalize on funding opportunities for progressive energy planning in the future.

The CEP fulfills policy direction from the York Region Official Plan, the Town’s Official Plan, and the Town’s Urban Centres Secondary Plan. These documents contain sustainability provisions that are encouraged or required for new development.

Installation of a cooling tower at a Town facility.