The Elora Environment Centre has begun the process of creating a community energy plan for Centre Wellington.
The plan will be directed towards engaging the public, businesses and industries on energy conversation measures, as well as create short, medium and long-term goals to increase energy efficiency, therefore decreasing energy use and cost.
Provincial direction has encouraged municipalities in Ontario to undergo energy conservation and demand management planning driven by greenhouse gas reduction goals
This project is following a process that involves an in depth analysis of energy use, extensive public engagement activities, and establishing a local action plan to carry out these energy conservation strategies.
Ultimately this project will be created for the community by the community.
There are many of benefits for Centre Wellington surrounding this community energy plan.
The Federation of Canadian Municipalities published a report, predicting that a municipality the size of Centre Wellington sees approximately 970,000 municipal energy dollars, and 97 million community energy dollars exiting the township annually.
For homeowners, decreasing this cost could be as easy as simple home retrofits such as putting a timer on pool pumps so they don’t run 24 hours a day. Additionally, business and industry sectors will benefit from lower operational costs, and would even attract new businesses to, for example, the proposed energy efficient Centre Wellington Business Eco park.
For the municipality, tax, and funding dollars could potentially be saved on energy expenses, opening up additional funds to invest into other community projects and infrastructure. Finally, this plan will highlight the uniqueness of Centre Wellington and tie in all aspects of the township, ranging from the artistic community, roads and building infrastructure to tourism and cultural attractions.
Centre officials say an energy plan of this magnitude will make Centre Wellington a place characterized by energy efficiency, independence and security, as well as continuing its legacy as a place to live, visit and invest.
The Elora Environment Centre wants to hear what the public has to say about its Community Energy Plan. Visit www.centrewellingtoncep.ca and keep an eye out for centre officials at events throughout the township.
Katelyn McFadyen, is the community energy plan co-ordinator
