Renfrew County DSB Achieves Significant Carbon Reduction through Optimized HVAC Systems
The Renfrew County District School Board (RCDSB) has taken concrete steps to drastically reduce its carbon footprint associated with building operations, yielding an average reduction of 32% in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions linked to ventilation systems. By proactively mitigating system inefficiencies, the RCDSB is positioning itself closer to achieving its broader organizational GHG goals.
Addressing a Universal Challenge
It is widely acknowledged across the industry that all building ventilation systems leak air, typically ranging between 15% and 40%. This inefficiency is not merely an operational concern; ventilation air leakage can contribute a significant 20% to 30% increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
To tackle this persistent issue, RCDSB partnered with the Nerva Energy Group (a Canadian Company), which was procured through OECM. Nerva Energy holds the Ontario commercial license for "Aeroseal," a specialized substance that seals ventilation air ducts from the inside out.
Strategic Efficiency Deployment
Between 2020 and 2022, RCDSB utilized this technology to rehabilitate its ventilation systems, successfully increasing airflow by an average of 25%.
More recently, in the 2024–2025 period, Nerva Energy identified ventilation systems that were over-ventilating the space. This presented a critical opportunity for the board to reduce both energy costs and GHG emissions while strictly maintaining the required ventilation standard of four air changes per hour (ACH).
The solution involved the strategic use of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs). By using VFDs and turning down the motor speed, RCDSB was able to realize significant environmental savings.
Quantifiable Environmental Results
The initiative resulted in a collective average reduction of 32% in GHGs associated with the ventilation footprint across the summarized AHU systems. Furthermore, the project generated $111,647 in annual GHG savings.
Several RCDSB schools achieved even higher rates of reduction:
AJ Charbonneau PS achieved the highest reduction we have seen in schools at 55%.
Fellowes HS recorded a 49% reduction.
Arnprior DHS, Herman Street PS, and Mackenzie Community School each achieved a 44% reduction in ventilation-related GHGs.
Long-Term Climate Strategy Benefits
The project ensures that RCDSB’s ventilation systems are fully re-commissioned and operating at peak performance, while still ensuring the breathable space meets necessary ventilation standards.
Crucially for future sustainability planning, reducing the amount of GHG associated with ventilation air leakage provides future capital cost savings when the school systems undergo conversion of their energy source or electrification efforts. The RCDSB is leveraging this initiative to minimize its environmental impact and provide a ventilation data inventory, contributing significantly to its overall carbon reduction goals
Occupant Behaviour and Education Programs
The Renfrew County District School Board (RCDSB) is actively involved in the EcoSchools Canada program. Several schools within the board, such as Killaloe Public School, Eganville and District Public School, and Rockwood Public School, have received EcoSchools certifications for the 2024-25 school year.
The Renfrew County District School Board (RCDSB) is proud to announce an exciting opportunity to further its mission of fostering environmental stewardship among students. A $4,000 community grant secured by the Retired Teachers of Ontario (RTOERO) Renfrew District 21 will directly support student-led environmental projects across Renfrew County schools. The RCDSB is committed to equipping its students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact on our planet. A $4000 community grant was secured by the Retired Teachers of Ontario (RTOERO) Renfrew District 21 to support student-led environmental projects across Renfrew County schools. This initiative aligns with the RCDSB Environmental Committee’s goal: to foster collaboration and encourage critical thinking about environmental issues. By providing direct funding for hands-on, real-world initiatives, the grant will enable students to actively learn about sustainability and develop into responsible, eco-conscious global citizens.