Municipalities across Canada are managing rising energy costs while planning for resilient growth. Having the right tools makes the difference.

The Thermal Energy Networks Guidebook for Canadian Municipalities is a practical, go-to resource designed to help municipalities navigate the opportunities and complexities of thermal energy networks (TENs). Developed with municipal practitioners and industry experts, it reflects real-world experience and current practices across Canada.

Across many communities, shared heating and cooling systems are already in place. These systems connect buildings through a common network, helping balance energy demand, improve efficiency and lower long-term costs. They also reduce pressure on electrical grids and support more resilient local energy use.

Use this guidebook to:

  • Understand how thermal energy networks work in a municipal context.
  • Assess local feasibility and identify viable opportunities.
  • Clarify municipal roles in thermal energy network projects.
  • Build a strong early-stage business case.
  • Navigate implementation pathways, partnerships and governance.
  • Access tools, funding opportunities and national networks.

Move from early exploration to implementation with clear, practical steps tailored to your municipality, using thermal energy networks as a scalable way to improve how your community heats and cools buildings.

Read the guidebook and start planning your thermal energy network project today .

Additional resource: 
Complement this guide with the Building Decarbonization Alliance’s TENs Support Toolkit for additional insights to support TENs development in your community.

Did you find this page helpful?
Please offer suggestions that will improve the learning center for you: