Introduction:
Climate change presents an urgent global challenge, demanding innovative solutions at every level of society. Colwood, in its commitment to climate leadership, has an opportunity to spearhead transformative change through the implementation of renewable energy initiatives. This proposal advocates for Colwood to become a demonstration municipality for renewable solar energy infrastructure, leveraging its unique geographical and developmental characteristics.
Background:
Many Colwood neighbourhoods offer ideal locations for solar energy collection, particularly Royal Bay
and The Beachlands, due to their historical land use as a quarry. Installing solar panels on Royal Bay rooftops has been a clear opportunity since development began over a decade ago. With development of The Beachlands in the beginning stages it seems the perfect time to introduce a neighbourhood-wide renewable energy initiative where the infrastructure can be built in from the beginning. New construction can be properly sited, and rooflines designed and aligned to maximize solar collection. Electrical infrastructure to support solar collection is far easier and less costly to implement in the design stage than adding it in as a ‘retrofit.’ (All new buildings should be solar and EV-ready.)
Making Colwood a model renewable energy community is a BIG idea, but not a new idea.
Solar Colwood (2011-2015), with a grant from the federal government’s Clean Energy Fund, helped 500 Colwood residents invest in over 1,000 renewable and energy-saving upgrades. Colwood embraces Big Ideas and is promoting them in an upcoming Big Ideas Fair (April 27, 2024). BIG ideas have power and can help society shift to a more beneficial direction.
Collaborative Partnerships:
This project could be a collaboration of all three levels of government (municipal, provincial, and federal), BC Hydro, and developers (Gablecraft, Seacliff Properties, and Reliance Properties). It may also be of interest to local First Nations, providing economic benefits and fostering reconciliation.
Opportunities and Benefits:
BC Hydro recently issued a call for proposals for independent power generation to enhance B.C.’s hydro-electric grid, expected to come under pressure from population density increases as well as drought resulting from climate change. At the announcement, Josie Osborne, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation, said this “call for power … will drive sustainable growth for communities all over the province, and ensure households and business can power up with clean, reliable, and affordable electricity” (https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024EMLI0018-000470).
Conveniently, Royal Bay and The Beachlands (as a former quarry) are, at least partially, under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. This project would give Minister Osborne an opportunity to champion community-wide adoption of distributed energy and solar net-metering systems to help reduce pressure on the hydro-electric grid, save householders money, and serve as a demonstration model for other B.C. communities.
Additional applications for solar energy infrastructure within Colwood itself may become evident (e.g., installing solar panels for shade in playgrounds and parking lots). By harnessing the power of the sun, we take advantage of free energy, contribute to a cleaner environment, and foster a sense of community empowerment and resilience.
Conclusion:
This initiative fits, and supports, Colwood’s Climate Action Plan, Strategic Plan, and Long-Term Agenda.
Establishing Colwood as a model municipality for solar energy presents an opportunity to visibly demonstrate climate leadership and show it is possible to create resilient energy systems and simultaneously reduce our carbon footprint. Big ideas and bold leadership are crucial, particularly in light of Colwood’s rising greenhouse gas emissions. Demonstrating the benefits of solar power supports the much needed (and inevitable) transition to renewable energy. By embracing renewable energy initiatives, particularly solar power, Colwood can set a precedent for sustainable development and foster economic growth, research, and resilience in the face of the climate emergency.
Thank you for considering this proposal.
Karyn Woodland
Charlotte Gorley
Kimberleigh Doyle
Stephan Doyle
ADDENDUM: Research Opportunities and Benefits
Integrating research into the planning and implementation of a solar renewable energy community fosters innovation, community engagement, and educational opportunities while driving progress towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future. This proposed project could provide a rich research opportunity for students in secondary institutions at all levels (e.g., Camosun College, Solar Installation; Royal Roads, and UVic) as well as elementary and high school students. Students in graduate and doctoral studies are always looking for research opportunities and by utilizing this local resource there would be no cost to taxpayers, and provide a valuable learning opportunity for students. Research grants for projects such as this are also available through provincial and federal sources.
Potential benefits include:
Optimizing Solar Energy Systems Through Localized Understanding
Enabling a thorough understanding of the local environmental conditions, energy needs, and available resources in order to design the solar energy system in the most efficient and effective manner, maximizing energy generation while minimizing costs.
Driving Innovation in Solar Energy
Fostering innovation by exploring new technologies, materials, and techniques for solar energy generation, storage, and distribution, potentially leading to the adoption of cutting-edge solutions that enhance the performance and reliability of the solar energy infrastructure.
Identifying Cost Reduction Strategies in Solar Projects
Identifying cost-saving opportunities by optimizing system components, streamlining installation processes, and exploring financing options such as grants, subsidies, and incentives, helping to make solar energy more affordable and accessible to the community.
Enhancing Community Engagement and Participation
Research fosters community engagement and collaboration by involving residents, businesses, and local stakeholders in the planning and decision-making process, something the City has stated as important.
Educational Opportunities and Workforce Development
Opportunities for students to participate in hands-on research projects related to solar energy technology, policy, economics, leadership, and environmental science; enhancing their academic learning and equipping them with practical skills and experience for future careers in renewable energy.
Promoting Collaboration Across Sectors
Encouraging collaboration between academia, industry, government agencies, and community organizations.
By sharing knowledge, resources, and expertise, stakeholders can work together to overcome challenges, address barriers, and accelerate the adoption of solar energy solutions.