Super ESCO approach for implementing energy efficiency in municipalities, the case of Canada (Webinar) – 19.06.2025

The 31st Global ESCO Network webinar focused on an innovative Super ESCO initiative in Quebec, Canada, designed to help small municipalities implement energy performance contracting (EPC) projects. The session was moderated by Federico Antonio Canu and featured a presentation by Pierre Langlois, President of Econoler, Co-Manager of SOFIAC, and Co-Chair of the Global ESCO Network. Langlois introduced the EcoEnergy 360 program, which addresses the challenges faced by over 1,100 small municipalities in Quebec, such as limited technical capacity, small-scale facilities, and borrowing restrictions. The program uses a centralized Super ESCO model to aggregate projects, streamline procurement, and deliver turnkey solutions with private sector financing.

EcoEnergy 360, established by the Federation of Quebec Municipalities (FQM), acts as a bridge between municipalities and ESCOs. It simplifies the EPC process by bundling projects, managing procurement, and ensuring performance guarantees. Financing is provided through SOFIAC and its investment arm, SOFIMVAIR, with $300 million earmarked for municipal projects. Regulatory changes allow municipalities to treat EPC payments as operating expenses rather than capital debt, preserving their borrowing capacity and enabling broader participation.

The program emphasizes practical, scalable energy conservation measures such as lighting upgrades, HVAC improvements, and heat recovery systems. It incorporates a robust measurement and verification (M&V) framework based on IPMVP standards, adapted for small-scale projects. ESCOs are encouraged to propose innovative solutions, including solar and geothermal technologies, though the focus remains on cost-effective, high-impact retrofits.

Beyond its technical and financial structure, the initiative aims to transform the market by attracting new ESCOs, supporting local economic development, and serving as a replicable model for other regions. With the first tenders expected by the end of 2025 and a six-year deployment plan targeting 200 municipalities, EcoEnergy 360 represents a significant step forward in municipal energy efficiency and climate action.