Many municipalities in Canada, some European countries, and the rural U.S. own and operate their own energy utilities and have considerable power to introduce energy efficiency programs into their community. The Oslo Ekon Fund has grown to NOK 600 million. The City can now invest about NOK 60 million a year without further need for fresh capital. It has provided loans for about 6,000 projects, with a 15 year repayment period. Where local utilities are owned and operated by private investors, or by a central power agency, municipal governments can work with these utilities to increase investments in energy conservation, develop cogeneration systems to provide heat and power, and develop district heating and cooling systems.
Municipalities can also join together in collaborative ventures to promote energy efficiency.
For example, along with existing municipal associations, they can make joint strategic purchases of advanced energy saving technologies to promote demand for these products. They can also work together to develop and distribute practical tools and frame works to help other cities develop retrofit strategies.