The work to produce the Plan began in June 2016 and was completed in early 2019. The development of the DCEP involved an engagement process with targeted stakeholders, the preparation of a baseline energy and emissions inventory, and technical analysis and modelling. Partners in the project included the Region, municipalities, and utilities, with a shared commitment to implementation. The DCEP was adopted by Regional Council and local area municipal Councils in 2019.
Durham Region's GHG Targets
The Durham Region’s community GHG targets as it relates to the DCEP were reductions from 2007 levels of 5% by 2015, 20% by 2020 and 80% by 2050. However, the GHG reduction targets were set prior to the Paris Agreement and the release of the IPCC’s Special Report on Global Warming of 1.5°C. Furthermore, the Canadian Net Zero Emissions Accountability Act legally binds the federal government to a process to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. In response to Regional Council’s climate emergency declaration, in 2021 the Region adopted new community GHG targets, which are: 10% below by 2025, 30% by 2030, and 100% by 2050 from 2019 levels to align with the federal government’s 2050 net zero commitment.
DCEP Outcomes
1) Innovative, smart and diversified energy solutions
2) Transparent, accountable, and committed to the vision
3) Reduced carbon footprint
4) Economic prosperity, and community and environmental health
5) Reliable, resilient, integrated, sustainable and financially viable energy sources
6) Affordable for all
7) Community collaboration for innovative solutions