Peterborough has experienced its share of weather-related disasters — from the ice storm this spring to the derecho in 2022, and the major floods of 2002 and 2004. Most of us have been touched in one way or another by extreme weather.
While no single weather event can be directly linked to climate change, the pattern and the science is clear: as climate change progresses, these events will become more frequent and more damaging. To address climate change, we need to better prepare for these extremes while tackling the root cause: the burning of fossil fuels.
Earlier this year, the City of Peterborough approved a climate change action plan that outlines how the city will reach net-zero emissions by 2050. A major part of that plan involves cutting greenhouse gas emissions from homes.
Most of us still heat our homes using fossil fuels such as natural gas, oil or propane. On top of that, a large portion of the energy we use is wasted due to poor insulation and air leakage.
Homes are a big part of the problem, and of the solution
Making our homes more energy-efficient and transitioning away from fossil fuels will take a collective effort. Programs like Better Homes Peterborough are part of that shift. The program offers low-interest loans, helps navigate available incentives, and provides expert advice so homeowners can complete deep retrofits that deliver real energy and emissions savings.
A deep energy retrofit often begins with the building envelope — the walls, ceiling, foundation, windows and doors that separate the indoors from the outdoors. Adding insulation, improving airtightness and replacing old windows and doors helps ensure the energy used to heat or cool a home isn’t wasted.
Once a home is properly sealed and insulated, the next step is to upgrade heating, cooling and hot water systems. Switching to electric systems that use heat pump technology is one of the most efficient and climate-friendly options available.
Finally, when energy use has been reduced as much as possible, solar power can help offset what’s left. With the right upgrades, some homes may even reach net-zero — producing as much energy as they use.
It may sound daunting, but hundreds of Peterborough homeowners have already completed energy retrofits and are now seeing the benefits.
Book a free consultation with the Better Homes Peterborough energy coach to get personalized advice and start tackling climate change at home.