HRM Energy Pilot Program

Context
In June 2020, Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) adopted HalifACT, an ambitious climate action plan aiming for a net-zero economy by 2050, positioning HRM among Canada’s most progressive climate movements. As part of this plan, HRM sought to support homeowners in reducing energy consumption through deep energy retrofits. To understand the impact and effectiveness of their approach, the municipality launched a pilot program to test strategies and gather insights before scaling.

Our Role
Colab partnered with HRM’s Energy & Environment team to design a rapid testing and learning approach for the pilot. We co-developed a developmental evaluation and learning framework, enabling iterative data collection, analysis, and feedback. Throughout the pilot, we facilitated real-time data sharing and sensemaking, supporting the team to quickly adapt strategies, address challenges as they arose, and make evidence-informed decisions during program rollout.

Outcome
Using the learning and adaptation framework, HRM was able to adjust the pilot in real time, enhancing program effectiveness and participant outcomes. The process also ensured that critical insights were captured systematically, providing robust evidence to inform future program design and reporting to City Council.