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The Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB) has once again been recognized as Ontario’s most energy-efficient school board, marking its third consecutive year at the top of the provincial rankings.
According to the 2026 Top Energy Performing School Boards Report: Sustainable Schools, released last week, the HCDSB ranked first among Ontario’s 72 school boards for energy efficiency. The report analyzes publicly reported energy consumption data from more than 4,800 schools and educational facilities across the province.
The latest recognition continues a strong upward trend for the board, which placed third in Ontario in 2023 before moving into the top position in 2024. HCDSB has maintained that ranking ever since, becoming the only school board in Ontario to hold the top spot for three consecutive years.
The rankings compare actual energy use against top-quartile performance targets established using pre-pandemic benchmarks, highlighting boards that consistently operate their facilities with exceptional efficiency.
“This achievement reflects years of thoughtful planning, innovation, and a shared commitment to sustainability across our system,” said Ryan Merrick, Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer. “Maintaining the top position for three consecutive years is a remarkable accomplishment and demonstrates the dedication of our school communities, staff and Facilities team in making responsible energy use part of our daily operations.”
Since 2007, Sustainable Schools has worked with school boards across Canada to improve energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create more sustainable learning environments.
HCDSB officials say the recognition reflects ongoing investments in responsible energy management, sustainable building practices and environmental stewardship initiatives aimed at reducing the board’s environmental footprint while supporting student success.
“Achieving this recognition for a third consecutive year speaks to the collective efforts of our students, staff, school leaders, and Facilities Team,” says John Klein, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Education Officer. “Together, we are creating learning environments that are not only efficient and sustainable, but that also reflect our shared responsibility to care for the world around us.”
The board says it remains committed to further improving sustainability efforts and reducing energy consumption across its schools and facilities.
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