Carleton Sustainable Energy Students Explore Zibi’s Innovative District Energy System

Over 25 students from Carleton University’s Sustainable Energy program recently participated in a field trip to the Zibi District Energy System, which provides heating and cooling to a community near downtown Ottawa-Gatineau. The visit offered a unique opportunity for policy and engineering students to learn about the interacting technological and societal factors involved in realizing a real-world sustainability project.

The tour was led by Ashley Graham, Sustainability Director at Theia Partners, and Taryn Glancy, Project Manager at Zibi Canada. Together, they provided a comprehensive overview of the district energy system. Students gained insight into the technical characteristics of the system, including the integration of waste energy sources and thermal exchange technologies.

Beyond the engineering aspects, the discussion highlighted the social and governance dimensions of implementing such an ambitious project. Navigating multiple regulatory frameworks—spanning the cities of Ottawa and Gatineau, the National Capital Commission, the Canada Energy Regulator, and Transport Canada—has been a core challenge for Zibi.

The tour also introduced students to Zibi’s commitment to the One Planet Living framework, an internationally recognized approach to sustainable community development. This framework underpins Zibi’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions, while promoting principles such as resource efficiency, social equity, and Indigenous reconciliation.

Following the site visit, participants gathered at the Mill Street Pub for an informal mixer. The event reinforced the program’s emphasis on bridging theory and practice in sustainable energy transitions.