Energy
Commitment to renewable energy and net zero
TRU recognizes the critical role of higher education in advancing the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon future. We are committed to aligning our operations and influence global efforts to achieve net zero emissions and a shift to 100% renewable energy.
To demonstrate this commitment, we have endorsed the following initiatives:
- The University and College Presidents’ Climate Statement of Action for Canada (2008)
- Taillores Declaration (2010)
- Race To Zero for Universities and Colleges (2021)
- SDG Accord (2022)
These collective commitments reflect our pledge to reduce institutional emissions and to actively influence and enable our broader community to contribute to the transition toward a net zero, renewable energy future.
Energy toolkit
Work with your department to conserve energy used by equipment, lights, heating and cooling.
Download the toolkitEnergy Management Training
Complete energy management training to learn more about TRU's Energy Management System.
RegisterThings you can do
✓ Check out this list of energy savings pledges you can make for home or work.
✓ Take advantage of natural light when possible instead of using lights, or at least only use as many lights as you need.
✓ If you’re the last to leave a room or classroom — for any time more than 10 seconds — turn off the lights.
✓ Unplug all electronics that are not in use.
✓ Avoid phantom loads. Charging cords for electronics that have a mini transformer on them (like most laptops) use electricity when plugged in, even when they are not connected to their devices. This is known as a phantom load. When you multiply the amount of electricity from devices that are left plugged in like this it can really add up.
✓ Turn off your computer monitor when it’s not used. Some TRU monitors turn off automatically after several minutes of no use, but turning it off before that happens saves energy — and that’s always a good habit. Plus, it only takes one second.
✓ Handicap buttons for building doors — only push them if you need to. Using them unnecessarily let’s more hot air escape outside in the colder months, and air conditioned air in the warmer months — and that means energy is being wasted.
✓ Dress weather-appropriate to moderate energy usage in heating and cooling. See this quick guide on how to dress for winter weather.
✓ Write an energy-related proposal for our Sustainability Grant Fund. If you are successful, you could access up to $100,000.
✓ Lots of these things can also be done at home, so start developing good habits in both places.
✓ Use a smart power bar/surge protector — all you have to do is ask IT Services and they can get you set up.
