Our 2023 Highlights!
In 2023, our Cooperative continued to contribute to the energy transition. I would like to acknowledge the tireless work of our volunteer Board and Executive for making this year, our third full year as a cooperative, a success.
2023 Highlights:
Membership: our membership base has grown to nearly 100 community changemakers.
Renewable Energy Projects
We won a 2023 Alberta Emerald Award in the Energy Category for our efforts in the implementation of community energy.
With a generous financial contribution from Baymag Canada Inc., we successfully commissioned a 292 kwdc solar installation at Baymag’s Exshaw Operation in June. We are happy to contribute to the environmental improvement of Baymag’s Industrial Operation.
In November, in collaboration with Temple B’Nai Tikvah of Calgary, BVGEC commissioned a 25.9 kwdc solar installation, helping the temple replace about 25% of its purchased electricity.
Also in November, BVGEC celebrated its 1st anniversary of the energization of the 127 kwdc solar installation at I-Place Phase 1 in Canmore. Over the 12-month period our solar array produced nearly 160,000 kwh of clean renewable energy.
And in September BVGEC celebrated our second anniversary of the startup of the 11.25kw solar array Ralph Connor Memorial United Church in Canmore. Since startup the RCMUC array has produced over 24,000 kwh and offset over 15 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Finally, Bow Valley Green Energy Cooperative became a founding member of Community Energy Cooperative Canada, whose mandate is to utilise the collective strength of its members to advance community energy policy at the federal government level.
Rocky Mountain Community Energy:
In Q1 of 2023, Rocky Mountain Community Energy, BVGEC’s energy retail enterprise, celebrated its 1st anniversary. This energy retail business produces revenue that is rolled back into the coop and our renewable energy projects, keeping our energy dollars in the community.
If you are unlucky enough to be on the residential rate option (RRO) with one of the major retailers, you still have the opportunity to switch to RMCE’s highly competitive rates (Check out our competitive rates at: https://ucahelps.alberta.ca/regulated-rates.aspx)
If you would like to get more involved in “being the change, “ we have volunteer opportunities in accounting, customer relations, and business management and promotion (RMCE).
BVGEC looks forward to continuing to "be the change" and making renewable energy affordable and accessible in the Bow Valley in 2024 and beyond.
May you and your loved ones have a safe and joyous holiday season.
Jeff Roberts
Chair, Bow Valley Green Energy Cooperative
A huge thank you to everyone who has supported us thus far!
To all our 2023 sponsors and supporters and partners! We are grateful for helping us on our journey to affordable renewable energy!
