The City of Dawson Creek has shown its leadership in energy efficiency by signing up to be a pilot community in the provincial Community Action on Energy Efficiency (CAEE) initiative. Through MEMPR’s CAEE program, pilot communities are focusing on advancing energy efficiency through municipal policies and bylaws - read the Local Government Policy Instruments Initiative program for more details.

Dawson Creek joined CAEE in March 2006 as part of Phase 2 of the initiative. In March 2007 the City was invited to take part in Phase 4 - CAEE Gold.

Targets Endorsed for Private Buildings - CAEE Gold

Key Policy Measures Proposed - CAEE Gold

• Hiring a building owner/manager liaison
• Tools to promote participation in the BOMA Go-Green program (energy audits, retrofits, management plans, labeling)

As part of CAEE Phase 2 and beyond, Dawson Creek:

• Designed a model energy efficiency and solar ready bylaw for single family homes
• Completed an energy plan for municipal operations and is currently working on a community-wide plan
• The OCP is currently under review in order to incorporate sustainability requirements in zoning, building and development regulations.
• A green vehicle policy was developed and implemented.
• In partnership with Northern Lights College, an "Energy House" is being designed where various types of alternative energy will be showcased.
• Solar Hot Water systems were installed at City Hall and the Fire Hall. The RCMP Station and the arenas are also scheduled for installations this spring.
• Completed energy audits on five of their largest structures (City Hall, Fire Hall, 3 arenas and the Chamber of Commerce building). Some of the required improvements have been budgeted and are awaiting approval from Council.
• A street light retrofit was completed.

During the ESP incentive pilot that was conducted March 2006 - March 2007, community members had access to provincial grants for energy efficient retrofits to single and row housing.

Our Mayor and Council have been very supportive of our energy planning efforts which is evidenced by their funding of the activities proposed by staff. Examples include the adoption of the Green Vehicle Policy, Green Power purchasing policy, energy audits, energy improvements to our infrastructure and the development of a sustainability plan.
- Emanuel Machado, Deputy Director of Development Services

Community EnerGuide Contact:
David Broadway
EnerGuide Advisor
Amerispec of Northern B.C.
Office: 250.782.6569
Cell: 250.719.8276
dcbroadway@uniserve.com