The federal government has provided Metro Vancouver with a $2.5 million investment through its Low Carbon Economy Fund to support the expansion of the Waste-to-Energy Facility in Burnaby.

“Canada has the potential to become a leader in clean energy. Projects like this one in Metro Vancouver show how innovation and green technology can make a difference in our communities. By supporting projects like this one, our government is lowering emissions, while ensuring a strong, clean economy for years to come,” said Minister of Environment and Climate Change Julie Dabrusin.

The Waste-to-Energy Facility in Burnaby is a key part of Metro Vancouver’s approach to managing residual waste, providing a cost-effective option that also recovers energy.

The facility will capture steam generated by its existing process to supply clean heating and hot water to up to 50,000 homes across Metro Vancouver. This project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70,000 tonnes per year and aligns with Metro Vancouver’s goals for a resilient and sustainable region. It will also help cut heating costs for residents.

The facility handles roughly one-quarter of the region’s waste disposal needs annually, providing enough electricity to power 16,000 homes.

Metro Vancouver is a North American leader in waste reduction and recycling with a recycling rate of 65 per cent, twice the Canadian average.

“Once complete, this will be North America’s largest low-carbon district energy system. This project gives us an opportunity for innovation and community benefit as we strive to achieve zero waste. By adding a district energy system, we’ll cut greenhouse gas emissions and harness heat the Waste-to-Energy Facility produces to provide water and space heating for tens of thousands of homes,” said Mike Hurley, chair of the Metro Vancouver board of directors.