As we celebrate Energy Efficiency Day, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on the critical role of demand-side management (DSM) in building a sustainable future. A recent article by The Atmospheric Fund (TAF) highlighted DSM’s importance in reducing energy consumption and enhancing grid reliability. This piece got us thinking about an essential but often overlooked aspect of DSM: the remarkable work being done in low-income conservation. For years, low-income DSM programs have been quietly driving progress across Ontario, creating significant benefits for both vulnerable communities and the province’s energy system.
Low-Income DSM: More Than Energy Savings
Low-income DSM programs deliver lower energy costs, improved efficiency, and grid resilience. But they also offer something extra, especially for vulnerable communities:
- Reducing energy poverty: Many low-income households are saddled with high energy costs due to older, inefficient homes. DSM programs help alleviate this burden by improving energy efficiency, allowing families to spend less on energy and more on other essentials.
- Inclusive energy transition: These programs ensure that low-income Canadians are not left behind in the shift to a low-carbon future. By making energy-efficient upgrades, low-income households actively contribute to reducing carbon emissions while benefiting from a more sustainable energy system.
- Improved comfort and air quality: DSM retrofits also bring better indoor air quality and enhanced comfort to low-income homes. Sealing drafts, adding insulation, and upgrading heating systems make these homes healthier and more comfortable—especially important in older, poorly insulated housing.
Adapting to climate change: In some cases, DSM retrofits include heat pump installations, providing both heating and cooling. As Canada faces rising summer temperatures due to climate change, access to cooling is becoming a critical issue. Heat pumps offer an energy-efficient way to stay cool while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Low-Income DSM: Supporting Ontario’s Energy Transition
These programs not only improve individual households but are also essential for Ontario’s broader energy transition. By reducing energy consumption in less efficient homes, low-income DSM programs ease the strain on the grid, paving the way for the integration of more renewable energy sources.
Retrofitting older housing stock, particularly in urban areas, has already proven to reduce greenhouse gas emissions substantially. These programs are playing a critical role in lowering emissions, cutting energy costs, and building a fairer energy system for all.
Prioritizing Low-Income DSM for a Sustainable Future
To amplify the benefits of these programs—reducing energy bills, improving living conditions, and cutting carbon emissions—we must prioritize funding and support for low-income DSM. As we mark Energy Efficiency Day, let’s celebrate the important work already being done and commit to ensuring these programs continue to serve communities across Ontario and grow in their capacity to support deeper energy improvements.
DSM is a key strategy for Canada’s low-carbon future, and prioritizing low-income DSM programs is essential for reducing energy poverty and ensuring equitable access to energy efficiency. These programs are doing important work in Ontario and beyond, and we need to ensure that this work continues.
Investments in low-income DSM programs must remain a priority in Canada’s climate and energy policy. When we continue to fund, support and enhance these programs, we amplify their benefits —reducing energy bills for vulnerable households, improving living conditions, and lowering our collective carbon footprint.
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