Vancouver, BC — Communities in BC’s most remote regions will soon be assisted in their efforts to reduce their reliance on diesel power generation in favour of cleaner, more efficient forms of energy. The Remote Community Implementation program is one of the many clean air and energy conservation projects funded by the Province of BC over the past five years. Remote communities planning an energy conversion will be eligible for funding grants, with up to $1.65 million available in total over the next three years.
 
The funding program will be managed by the Fraser Basin Council as part of the Community Action on Energy and Emissions Program in which more than 50 municipalities and First Nations are participating.

“All communities in British Columbia should have access to clean, renewable energy and that’s why we are continuing to fund clean and efficient energy solutions for remote communities in BC,” said Blair Lekstrom, Minister for Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. “This project will create jobs, support families and generate new economic activities in remote communities across the province as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

There are approximately 70 remote communities across the province that are powered by diesel generation, resulting in significant environmental impacts as well as high energy costs, poor energy reliability, lack of electricity system capacity and limited support to develop clean and renewable community energy solutions. Remote communities will be able to apply for funding of between $25,000 and $45,000 for minor projects and between $100,000 and $300,000 for major projects. The project also supports mentorship between new community grant recipients and past recipients. This knowledge-sharing will assist in community energy development, including geothermal, solar and hydroelectric power.

We are pleased to see inefficient technologies replaced,” said David Marshall, Executive Director of the Fraser Basin Council. “This program will help smaller communities boost the quality of life for residents by improving air quality and will support local leadership in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

Community applications for the funding will be accepted on an ongoing basis throughout the year, and will be reviewed twice annually, in November and May. Applications received by October 30, 2009 will be considered in the first round of reviews in November, and the successful applicants will be announced at the end of the year.  

For more information or to obtain an application, visit www.fraserbasin.bc.ca. The Fraser Basin Council is a non-profit society that brings people together to advance sustainability in the Fraser Basin and beyond.


 

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