In October 2024, CAFES started a new volunteer Working Group: Groupe Thermo-Pompe! This group shares information, increases community education and awareness, and scales-up our advocacy efforts on the climate benefits of installing heat pumps in buildings.
Call Out: We are looking for residents who currently have a heat pump installed in their home and are willing to share their experience with fellow residents. If interested, please contact info@cafesottawa.ca. (You are also most welcome to join Groupe Thermo-Pompe to work with CAFES on our heat pump advocacy).
One of the main drivers behind climate change are greenhouse gases, and our homes are one of the major sources of CO2 emissions. This comes from the burning of fossil fuels (including natural gas) for the heating and cooling of our homes, as well as heating our water. Heat pumps are a solution that could significantly reduce the amount of household greenhouse gas emissions.
Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) are appliances that run on electricity rather than natural gas to provide both heating and cooling in your home. Heat pumps are more efficient than gas furnaces, and the technology has significantly improved - so much so that heat pumps can replace gas-powered heating systems. Because of this, they are significantly more environmentally friendly.
A great example of a Community Association demonstrating strong leadership and promotion of Air Source Heat Pumps is the Net-Zero Project from Toronto's Harbord Village Residents’ Association. The Net Zero project team has been organizing home retrofit promotions, bulk-buy discounts, bike fairs, panel discussions, and educational webinars to encourage residents to adopt household carbon reduction measures. Visit the Net Zero Carbon Project link for more information on this fantastic initiative!
CAFES is excited to be increasing our advocacy efforts through Groupe Thermo-Pompe and as always, are grateful for our volunteers who are willing to share their experiences and drive climate action forward.
