Utilities and Energy Management

Utilities and Energy Management is responsible for providing the uninterrupted supply of power, energy, heating, and cooling media to all McGill buildings and facilities and for the maintenance of related tunnels and systems. We manage the operation of the University’s chilled water plants, central steam plants, electrical networks, the city water main network and used water main network.

We monitor energy usage at McGill and implement programs to reduce energy consumption, including water conservation, and maximize the efficiency of the University’s utility networks. 

Additionally, Utilities and Energy Management manages all relations and contracts with the providers of public utilities for the supply of electricity (Hydro-Québec), natural gas (Énergir), and domestic water.

We serve as liaison with the City of Montreal and its borough representatives, concerning any work undertaken that will impact the regular activities of the University. This impact includes, but is not limited to, repair work on water pipes, streets, or sidewalks, vehicle circulation within the perimeters of the University campuses, and emergency situations.

To request one of our services, contact the Facilities Call Centre or see more details in the FMAS Services section.


Learn more about our Projects & Initiatives:

McGill's Energy Management Plan

Our 2016-2020 iteration of McGill’s Energy Management Plan focuses on the transition of buildings from static energy consumers to dynamic smart grids and pave the way to a carbon-neutral energy transition.

McGill's Pulse Energy Dashboard

A tool to visualize building energy performance online - compares, in real time, the actual amount of energy consumed with the amount of energy we should be consuming.

Water Resource Management

Echoing the Ministry of Education’s mandate to reduce on campus water consumption, McGill is constantly working towards reducing its impact on the environment including the overall water consumption of its downtown campus and Macdonald campus.

Roadmap for McGill's Energy Transition

McGill's senior administration committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040.  Transitioning McGill's energy systems to low-carbon solutions will be key to meeting the University's carbon neutrality target.

Peak Demand Management (PDM) program

Thirteen buildings are enrolled in Hydro Québec’s PDM program. During extremely cold weather events, we agree to reduce power demand, thus reducing the strain on the province’s power infrastructure. 

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