In conjunction with the Energy Centre of the North, the District of Houston 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 - Phase 2. 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.

As “Energy Centre for the North” the District is taking great lengths to ensure its buildings are as energy efficient as possible. Houston will explore a number of policy tools to promote better buildings in keeping with the spirit embodied in its new Leisure Facility, which utilizes a geo-exchange energy system to provide space and water heating.

Houston District policy directions: (updated March 2007)

• Developing energy efficiency language for the Official Community Plan (OCP). Regional co-operation (e.g. Smithers, Terrace) to support energy efficiency OCP objectives region-wide
• 1st municipality in Canada to mandate fuel efficiency for solid fuel burning appliances & removal of non-efficient appliances by 2010.

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.

In partnership with ESP, two local businesses offered value-added benefits to residents. Additional incentives available only to customers registered in the ESP program included:

• Prime rate loans with an 8 year amortization for energy efficient retrofit expenses by the Bulkley Valley Credit Union; as well as
• A $50 coupon toward payment of the required EnerGuide assessment.
• All West Glass offered an additional 5% savings on the purchase of Energy Star windows.

Community EnerGuide Contact:
Mr. Terry Fulljames
EnerGuide Advisor
Amerispec of Northern B.C.
1-888-599-4999
fulljames@bulkley.net