Net-Zero Acceleration (NZA)

Net-Zero Acceleration (NZA)

NZA helps municipalities scale up high-impact emission reduction projects while addressing other critical community needs. From fleet electrification and community energy systems to net-zero new builds and energy-from-waste solutions, each NZA initiative is designed to deliver environmental results while also advancing affordability, resilience, biodiversity, water conservation and equity. 

Overview 

In 2024-25, GMF completed the redesign of its long-standing Core initiative, launching the NZA initiatives to help municipalities adopt clean energy alternatives, reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, and build energy independence. NZA supports a range of proven climate solutions—including Organic Waste to Energy systems, Community Energy Systems (such as wind, solar, and district energy), and Municipal Fleet Electrification—while setting explicit targets for reducing emissions and shifting toward low- and zero-carbon pathways. 

The demand for NZA funding underscored communities' readiness to act. In 2024-25, a wave of strong, fundable applications led GMF to increase the NZA funding pool by 80%—from $60 million to $108.2 million. 

Projects approved through the NZA stream are projected to avoid 34,900 t/y CO2e emissions per year— five times the program’s annual target. 

In 2024-25, GMF also launched Accelerating Community Energy Systems to help municipalities tap into small-scale, renewable energy production and storage options. These systems strengthen energy self-sufficiency, stabilize costs, and generate local revenue. The initiative also builds local capacity by helping municipalities explore new partnerships, financing models, and incentive structures that support financially sustainable clean energy projects.

To strengthen local capacity and accelerate adoption, NZA partnered with leading municipal networks and technical organizations. One of its key collaborators is the Canadian Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI), a program developed by the National Zero Waste Council, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, the Recycling Council of Alberta, and RECYC-QUEBEC.