Your dash gauge is an ammeter?  On ALL the US models Ive seen the gauge
is a voltmeter, and ranges from 8 to 18, {however the gauge is NOT
accurate.. only to be used as a reference}.  I doubt canadian cars are
different

Nominal voltage of fully charged battery in morning should be 12 before
starting, and charge at 14 . 5 volts

Locks windows and mirrors only draw current when they are
activated/adjusted.

But if your Tachometer {tach} goes to zero with the lights on, you have a
dash wiring GROUNDING problem... find a friend or acquaintance who is
experienced with auto wiring to help find it.  There are one or several
wires that go to grounding terminals on the dash frame, somewhat near the
steering column.  ALSO/OR, the contacts on the instrument cluster wiring
connectors may be corroded.

That should also affect/correct your voltage reading and your no-doubt
dim dash lights.  See if turning the dash light thumbwheel all the way
down doesnt affect the tach reading.