Sources of Waste
In order to model the resource recovery options as realistically as possible, an inventory of solid waste, liquid waste, and waste energy was developed through questionnaires and interviews with representatives of local governments, industrial, and commercial organizations. Potential sources of waste were also identified through Environment Canada's National Pollutant Release Inventory, municipal reports and data, and field trips.
Potential Markets for Recovered Resources
Two hundred and eighty-six buildings in the North Shore Communities were identified as potential candidates for connection to a district energy system. These buildings were chosen because they operate large hydronic heating systems that could be served by district energy, and are located within a reasonable distance of sources of heat (please refer to the Distribution of Energy and Water section).
The economics of providing heating and cooling to buildings through a district energy system depend on both the quantity of energy required, and when the energy is required. If a building consumes all of its energy in the winter months, then equipment must be sized to meet this peak load, but will be idle during the summer. If on the other hand energy is required throughout the year, then a better balance between supply and demand can be achieved.
An analysis of buildings in the North Shore Communities indicated that Multi-Unit Residential Buildings and health care facilities would account for 70% and 10% of total demand respectively. As a result, a significant proportion of the total energy that could be supplied by a district energy system would be delivered during summer months, thus improving the energy balance and economics of the system.