VANCOUVER — A new study says Montreal homes emit the lowest greenhouse gas emissions, on average, while those in Edmonton emit the most.
The University of British Columbia study estimated energy consumption in major Canadian cities between 1997 and 2009 based on factors such as population density, the weather and the kind of energy consumed.
It found Edmonton topped the list, followed closely by Calgary, partly because the cold Alberta winters require more energy use.
The study also says that Alberta cities use coal-based electrical power and the lower population density means motorists burned more fuel commuting.
Montreal homes consumed the lowest because of high population density and the use of hydroelectric power, which generates less emissions.
Despite its milder weather Vancouver ranked second-lowest, largely because natural gas is more commonly used for home heating.
