Clean Energy BC Event

Environmental Workshop: Hanna Donaldson on Geothermal

Tue, 29 Oct 2019 22:45:29 +0000

Hanna Donaldson is the Strategic Initiatives Director and a Senior Biologist with EDI who will be speaking at the Environmental Workshop on Wednesday, November 6th.

Register for the Environmental Workshop today to learn firsthand from Hannah about geothermal opportunities in BC, the advantages of a sunrise industry, and how sustainable projects can be developed for the future.

Location, location, location. Whether it’s real estate or siting a new geothermal plant, location matters. A key component in evaluating project feasibility is location. Successful projects consider accessibility to resources and markets and search out opportunities to capitalize on this. Projects that consider the physical setting of proposed areas improve environmental and social license approvals which leads to environmentally sustainable projects.

In today’s climate, there is an audible demand for sustainable and clean energy production with less reliance on fossil fuel burning. Sunrise industries such as solar, run-of-river hydro, wind and geothermal energy production are on the rise globally. Here in BC we have seen a multitude of successful clean energy projects including wind farms in the South Peace, a solar power project operating in Kimberley, and numerous independent power producers using run-of-river technology. But what about geothermal in BC? This presentation will speak to geothermal opportunities in BC, discuss the advantages as a sunrise industry, and illustrate how sustainable projects can be developed for the future.

Click here to learn more about the Environmental Workshop

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Top 10 Things To Do at Generate

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 22:13:09 +0000

Honourable Scott Fraser, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
Dr. Andrew Weaver, Leader of the BC Green Party & MLA Oak Bay-Gordon Head
Tzeporah Berman, International Program Director at Stand.Earth

Check out the plenary sessions on our website, starting here

Wednesday, November 6

CEBC Chair Isabelle Deguise invites you to meet us on the 34th floor of the Hyatt for spectacular Vancouver views, appetizers, and networking

Click here to learn more about the Exhibitors

Select craft beers from Red Truck Brewing will be provided at Generate during Beers on the Trade Show Floor

Thursday, November 7

Join us in celebration of the 2019 CEBC award winners at the Awards Dinner that will be taking place in the Hyatt’s beautiful Plaza Ballroom

Friday, November 8

7:45 – 8:45 am
RSVP by emailing [email protected]

Consider it the “Tinder” of professional networking

Friday, November 8

Taking place at the Mosaic Grille & Bar on the second floor of the Hyatt
Live band, appetizers, and drinks!

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Announcing the 2019 Clean Energy BC Award Winners

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 23:57:48 +0000

Show your support for the 2019 Clean Energy BC award winners by registering for the Awards Dinner, which will be taking place on Thursday, November 7th at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Vancouver.

This will be an excellent networking opportunity that will include clean energy industry professionals, project developers, First Nation leaders, policy designers, community shapers, tech innovators, and young professionals!

Each of this year’s winners has made a meaningful impact to those around them through their hard work and dedication to advancing clean energy. We can’t wait for the Awards Dinner to give each of the winners below the recognition they deserve.

Project Excellence

Moose Lake Wind Project, Boralex

Operational Excellence

Forrest Kerr Hydro facility, owned by Axium Infrastructure Inc., Manulife Financial Corporation, Tahltan First Nation, and AltaGas Canada Inc.

Achieved by the dedicated team at the Northwest Hydro Facilities

School District 27 Caribou Chilcotin

Finance

Tahltan Nation Purchase of Interest in the Northwest Hydro Electric Facilities

Finance

New Relationship Trust Funding

PURCHASE YOUR TICKET FOR THE AWARDS DINNER TODAY!

And don’t forget to register for Generate 2019, which is bringing together today’s thought and action leaders who are on the cutting edge of BC’s drive towards decarbonization.

View the full Generate schedule here.

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Generate 2018 Award Winner Spotlight: Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation & The Winchie Creek Hydro Project

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 23:10:13 +0000

Environmental Stewardship & Community Improvement 2018 Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation’s (TFN) traditional territory is located in the Clayoquot Sound on the west coast of Vancouver Island (Tofino area). In 2018, TFN completed construction of the 4 MW Winchie Creek hydro power project. This is TFN’s third clean energy facility under the Standing Offer Program. The TFN is also the majority owner of the two 6 MW hydropower plants at Canoe Creek (COD in 2010) and Haa-ak-suuk Creek (COD 2014), and the Plant Operators are TFN members. TFN is working towards the development of four more clean energy small hydro projects in the Clayoquot Sound. Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation’s three small hydro projects produce an average of 50 GWH/year, supplying much of the energy needed to meet the demands of the local communities of Ucluelet, Tofino and the Alberni Valley. The development of Nation’s clean energy projects has been overseen by TFN Tribal Parks, with a vision of sustainable development that has environmental stewardship as a priority. The facilities are located in the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and are outstanding examples of sustainable economic development. All of the facilities’ diversion reaches are located upstream of fish bearing habitat. The footprint for each project has been kept as small as possible, leaving the forest intact with a goal to achieve a “park-like setting” post-construction. The Winchie Creek hydropower facility was constructed to produce power, but also to provide other environmental and community benefits. Downstream of the facility where Winchie Creek meets Kennedy Lake is the location of the previously inaccessible (by vehicle or equipment) Winchie Reserve. “Winchie” in the Nuu-chah-nulth language means “where the fish go”. Historically, this area was highly productive salmon habitat that supported the Nations’ fishery. A century of forest harvesting in the area ruined much of the fish habitat and salmon populations have plummeted. The decision to develop the clean energy project was made in part to develop access to this location to allow for the community to use the Reserve lands and also gain access to the Kennedy River side channel for the Nation to undertake salmon habitat restoration in the future, and to develop a fish hatchery as well. None of this would be possible without the development of Winchie Creek Hydro, which will also contribute financially to these environmental stewardship efforts. TFN’s Tribal Parks and Fisheries are currently funding and leading the restoration of several historically highly productive salmon eco-systems throughout Clayoquot Sound. This work is extremely important to BC Coastal ecosystems, as salmon is a key species that is used by whales, wolves, bears, eagles and humans. Revenues from TFN’s clean energy facilities help to support these and other environmental stewardship initiatives that TFN has planned for their traditional territory. This holistic approach to sustainable economic development combined with environmental protection and habitat restoration is truly industry leading and should be recognized and applauded. Can you think of someone who deserves special recognition for a job well done or an outstanding achievement in the clean energy industry? If so, considering nominating them for a Clean Energy BC Award to make sure that they get that recognition! Make your nomination here. Don’t miss out on the action! Register for Generate 2019 today.]]>

Generate 2018 Award Winner Spotlight: Richard Harper

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 22:04:05 +0000

Merit Award for Distinguished Service 2018 Richard Harper has extensive experience in pipeline feasibility, predesign, design, and construction management for water, sewer, drainage, renewable energy and infrastructure systems. He is a specialist in trenchless technology including tunneling, HDD, pipe bursting, CIPP, and fold and form pipe jacking. Richard’s expertise also includes project management, design and construction management of large infrastructure projects including pipelines, reinforced concrete water retaining structures, intakes, pump stations, weirs, and shore protection. Many projects included a multidisciplinary approach that involved electrical, mechanical, civil, and environmental disciplines. Richard previously held positions as Director of the North American Society for Trenchless Technology (NASTT), Program Chair for NASTT’s 2001 No-Dig Conference, and Treasurer for the Northwest Chapter of NASTT. He was also Chair of NASTT’s Directional Drilling subcommittee who led an industry consortium which developed permit specifications for HDD crossings of state highways for the California Department of Transportation. Richard is currently a member of the Clean Energy Association of BC (CEBC), Chair of Marketing Committee and member of Hydro Committee. Richard was also a recipient of the Lieutenant Governor’s Engineering Award of Excellence and Clean Energy BC Project of the Year Award as a team member for Cape Scott Wind Farm. When not trying to depuzzle GHGs, Richard enjoys Ocean Outrigger racing, Dragonboating, Beach Volleyball, and SCUBA Diving and still has hopes for the Canucks in the coming years.]]>

Generate 2018 Award Winner Spotlight: The Upper Lillooet Hydro Project by Innergex Renewable Energy Inc.

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 22:45:40 +0000

Project Excellence Award 2018 As one of Innergex’s most ambitious and challenging projects to date, the Upper Lillooet Hydro Project (ULHP) is a testament to perseverance, teamwork and a relentless passion to help lead the transition to a carbon-free economy. Located 65 km northwest of the Village of Pemberton, nestled in the Pacific Ranges of the Coast Mountains in BC, the ULHPis comprised of the Upper Lillooet River (81.4 MW) and Boulder Creek (25.3 MW) facilities that transmit clean, renewable energy to more than 39,000 British Columbia households through a 72 km constructed transmission line. For Innergex, developing sustainably means harnessing the water, wind or sun in a way that avoids, minimizes, mitigates or offsets for impacts on the surrounding ecosystem. Their team developed one of its most dynamic and encompassing environmental programs to date and worked closely over several years with local First Nations, government agencies, local groups and residents. The challenging nature of the geography of the project, as well as several force majeure incidents including a forest fire, forced their team of experts to develop engineering solutions and environmental protocols to address issues both predetermined and unforeseen to bring about the successful completion, and minimizing of delays, of the two run-of-river projects. The Upper Lillooet Hydro Project is a testament to the experience and passion of an Innergex team who are extremely proud to have successful completed the biggest hydro project Innergex has built to date by working together and adapting to evolving conditions.]]>

Generate 2018 Award Winner Spotlight: Wuikinuxv First Nation & the Nicknaqueet Hydro Project

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 18:32:42 +0000

Community of the Year Award 2018 The Wuikinuxv Nation community of Wuikinuxv Village is a remote, off-grid community located at River’s Inlet, BC. The village is home to approximately 70 residents occupying 45 homes and is only accessible by boat or float plane. From time immemorial, Wuikinuxv Nation has been sustained by the natural wealth of their homeland. The Nation is rooted in their cultural values and traditional way of life, relying on the rich waters surrounding their village and a relationship with the land that sustains them. Ongoing logging development is a primary industry within the region. In the summer fishing lodges are temporarily active, and a small regional salmon hatchery has been developed in the village. For many decades the community has relied on diesel generation as its only electrical energy source. Over this time the rising costs of fuel have been economically crippling for the community, and the barging and handling of diesel fuel has posed a significant risk to the environment and rich biodiversity of the area. Wuikinuxv has recognized the opportunity and the need for hydroelectricity since the 1960s. Achieving energy security and self-sufficiency has been a challenge, and a longstanding priority for the Nation. With support from the Federal government, in 2014 Wuikinuxv Leadership began working in collaboration with the Nature Conservancy of Canada (owner of lands adjacent to Nicknaqueet River) and the project team to plan, design and achieve regulatory permitting for a hydropower facility on Nicknaqueet River. This collaborative effort, led by the Nation, resulted in an innovative project design with minimal footprint, that mitigates potential adverse impacts to the sensitive coastal environment and the salmon-rich waters. The Nicknaqueet River hydropower facility completed construction in 2018. At long last the community has a reliable source of clean energy, allowing the diesel generators to stand silent for most of the year. The Nicknaqueet River project was a community-led initiative since day one. Nation members assisted with early stage feasibility studies, providing invaluable knowledge of the land and important historical sites. Through the design and development stage, Wuikinuxv members played a critical role in determining the location of project components, assisting in project layout, and collecting the data required to design the Project. The Nation went to great efforts to accommodate the project team in the small community, providing accommodations, meals, transportation and communications and also site safety, including bear watch in prime grizzly bear habitat. Wuikinuxv members did their utmost to support the project. In addition to graciously opening their homes and kitchens to the project team, members undertook training and skills development to enhance their roles in construction. When construction was fully underway, the construction work force consisted of up to 60% of Wuikinuxv members. The plant is now fully operational, with the two permanent Plant Operator positions filled by Wuikinuxv members. The vision, patience, persistence and direct involvement of the entire Wuikinuxv community made this clean energy project possible. This community-wide commitment to reduce dependence on diesel generated electricity is exemplary and worthy of recognition.

Can you think of someone who deserves special recognition for a job well done or an outstanding achievement in the clean energy industry? If so, considering nominating them for a Clean Energy BC Award to make sure that they get that recognition! Make your nomination here.

Don’t miss out on the action! Register for Generate 2019 today.

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“Missing the Bigger Picture: Tracking the Energy Revolution 2019”

Fri, 24 May 2019 17:45:08 +0000

Clean Energy Canada has partnered with Navius Research to delve into Canada’s clean energy sector in order to better understand its economic contribution and the number of jobs it provides. The result is an up-to-date, unique examination of the sector and its relevance to Canadians.

Not only is Canada’s clean energy sector growing faster than the rest of the country’s economy, it’s also attracting tens of billions of dollars in investment every year.

And perhaps most importantly for the average Canadian, it’s a huge, and growing, employer.

To read the full report, click here.

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“Trail Hosting Clean Energy Conference” as Featured in the Trail Times

Tue, 21 May 2019 18:08:23 +0000

Powering Generations: Legacy to the Future coming to town June 4-6

The Clean Energy Association of BC (CEBC) is hosting its spring conference Powering Generations: Legacy to the Future in Trail, from June 4-6. CEBC is BC’s clean energy industry association that represents 135 members. This immersive event showcases the technologies, solutions and job opportunities from the Province of BC’s CleanBC plan released in November 2018. The association has support from the government and a keynote speech from the Leader of the Green Party, Dr. Andrew Weaver MLA. Indigenous leader, former chief of ʔAq̓am, St. Mary’s Indian Band and former chief commissioner of the British Columbia Treaty Commission, Sophie Pierre, will be delivering a keynote speech on June 5. The conference focuses on the opportunities with CleanBC as well as the Kootenays’ legacy of engineering excellence and how the plethora of clean energy projects impact clean tech innovation in the region. Mary Austin of Austin Engineering will be co-chairing Powering Generations with Clean Energy BC’s Chair, Isabelle Deguise of BluEarth Renewables Inc. “Our region has a proud history of sustainable energy, which started in 1897 with West Kootenay Power and Light when it was given approval to generate power at Bonnington Falls for the Rossland mines. This reliable energy has powered industry for generations and paved the way for innovative, sustainable infrastructure for our future,” said Austin.

“Clean Energy BC is excited to bring its spring conference to the Kootenays to showcase communities that have thrived for generations on renewable energy and paved the way for our transition to a clean economy.” – Isabelle Deguise, BluEarth Renewables Inc.

Powering Generations includes a workshop that is being co-hosted by West Kootenay EcoSociety’s executive director Montana Burgess on June 4. This full-day workshop is catered towards community leaders, local government, First Nations leaders and clean energy industry professionals who are interested in partnering to facilitate progress. Order of Canada recipient and clean energy champion, Kekinusuqs Dr. Judith Sayers, a member of the Hupacasath First Nation, will be leading a session. The workshop dispels myths of renewable energy and explores the practical steps of how to achieve the transition to 100 per cent renewable energy. “Five local governments in the West Kootenay region of BC have already said yes to 100 per cent renewable energy, a stronger economy, and healthier and safer communities. I’m excited to showcase our local leadership and help bring clean energy champions from other parts of BC together to encourage learning, sharing and innovation,” said Burgess. Global renewable energy trends and clean technology development will impact the Province of B.C.’s road to achieving the vision of CleanBC. Powering Generations will illuminate the many plausible paths that are involved in the future of CleanBC, including how to improve labour readiness to take advantage of the exciting job opportunities and economic development. Conference delegates will have the opportunity yo visit the Midas 3D Fab Lab, a state-of-the-art 3D printing facility. The final day of the conference will conclude with touring a wide range of the region’s clean energy projects including Nelson Hydro, Nelson Solar, Brilliant Dam and Waneta Dam.

This article was originally posted in The Trail Times on May 16th, 2019. Click here to access the article.]]>

First Nations Funding Available for Powering Generations

Fri, 17 May 2019 16:52:20 +0000

Indigenous Services Canada has generously provided funding to cover First Nations registration for the full three days of Powering Generations. This includes the following: Day 1: Renewable Energy 101 Workshop Day 2: Full Day Conference including tour of Midas 3-D Fab Lab and a Gala Dinner Day 3: Site Visits to Waneta, Brilliant and Nelson Energy & Solar We have some magnificent speakers lined up including workshop facilitator Kekinusuqs Judith Sayers (Hupačasath), Sophie Pierre (Kootenay, Ktunaxa), and Dr. Andrew Weaver MLA, Leader of the Green Party. If you are interested in attending, please use the discount code spring-2019-fn on member pricing when you register online and you will be given a 100% discount. You can find the registration link here: https://generatebc.ca/registration. Due to limited funding we are unable to cover the cost of travel and accommodations for our spring conference this year; although we have acquired room discounts with the Best Western Plus Columbia River Hotel in Trail and the Josie Hotel in Rossland. You can click here for more information on accommodation discounts. We also have a 15% discount code with Pacific Coastal airlines for flights from Vancouver to Trail. The promo code is CEBC19. You can find more information on flights and travel here: https://generatebc.ca/location. By attending Powering Generations you will have the opportunity to connect with clean energy industry professionals, community leaders, First Nations, academics, and technology innovators. This will be a phenomenal platform for inclusive and constructive knowledge sharing between delegates with a shared passion of transitioning to a low-carbon future and strengthening local communities. As there is limited funding available, we would recommend registering sooner rather than later! Please note that site visit registration is no longer available through the website. Contact [email protected] or call the Clean Energy BC office at (604) 568-4778 to register for the site visits.]]>

Clean Energy BC Event

Environmental Workshop: Hanna Donaldson on Geothermal

Meet Hanna!

Take a sneak peak at what Hanna’s presentation has in store:

Top 10 Things To Do at Generate

1. Take inspiration from this year’s Keynote Speakers including:

2. Expand your knowledge at our 8 Plenary Sessions:

3. Take part in the dynamic conversations at our workshops:

4. Kick off the conference at our Chair’s Ice Breaker Reception:

5. Meet some of BC’s top clean energy organizations on the Trade Show Floor:

6. Savour the day by sipping on a microbrew (or two):

7. Show your support for this year’s CEBC award winners at our Awards Dinner:

8. Join us at our Members Breakfast & Strategic Update (for CEBC Members only):

9. Network to the max using Whova — New to Generate!

10. Enjoy live music at our Closing Reception:

Announcing the 2019 Clean Energy BC Award Winners

This will be an excellent networking opportunity that will include clean energy industry professionals, project developers, First Nation leaders, policy designers, community shapers, tech innovators, and young professionals!

Each of this year’s winners has made a meaningful impact to those around them through their hard work and dedication to advancing clean energy. We can’t wait for the Awards Dinner to give each of the winners below the recognition they deserve.

Project Excellence

Operational Excellence

Lifetime Achievement Award

Community of the Year Award

Distinguished Service Award

Environmental Stewardship

Community Improvement Award

Finance

Finance

PURCHASE YOUR TICKET FOR THE AWARDS DINNER TODAY!

And don’t forget to register for Generate 2019, which is bringing together today’s thought and action leaders who are on the cutting edge of BC’s drive towards decarbonization.

View the full Generate schedule here.

Generate 2018 Award Winner Spotlight: Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation & The Winchie Creek Hydro Project

Generate 2018 Award Winner Spotlight: Richard Harper

Generate 2018 Award Winner Spotlight: The Upper Lillooet Hydro Project by Innergex Renewable Energy Inc.

Generate 2018 Award Winner Spotlight: Wuikinuxv First Nation & the Nicknaqueet Hydro Project

“Missing the Bigger Picture: Tracking the Energy Revolution 2019”

To read the full report, click here.

“Trail Hosting Clean Energy Conference” as Featured in the Trail Times

First Nations Funding Available for Powering Generations