Alberta Solar Municipal Showcase

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Over the past 15 years, Cochrane has been one of Canada’s fastest-growing communities, doubling in population. Despite this rapid growth, the town is committed to climate protection and sustainability planning.

For example, the town’s participation in the Partners in Climate Protection program highlighted a need to improve energy management. To help evaluate energy options and raise public awareness of renewable energy options, Cochrane installed a small solar photovoltaic (PV) system on the Big Hill Leisure Pool as part of the Alberta Solar Showcase.

“The solar PV pilot project will help us make informed decisions about alternative energy options for the future, says Mayor Truper McBride, who believes Cochrane is on the leading edge of municipal energy management. “Cochrane Town Council, administration and residents work together to reduce our ecological footprint while maintaining our unique quality of life.”

The town is also conducting a complete energy audit of its facilities, reviewing its energy policies and initiatives, and identifying retrofit opportunities to reduce energy consumption. As they wear out, old computer equipment, appliances and lighting are replaced with high-efficiency units and reduced-wattage or LED lighting. Other initiatives include a green fleet program for town vehicles, recycling of obsolete equipment and lights and a proposed anti-idling campaign.

Cochrane‘s Solar Team: Sedmek Inc. (Calgary)
Big Hill Electric (Cochrane)
Fortis Alberta (Cochrane and Calgary)

For further information, contact Gary Wagner, Environmental Coordinator, at [email protected] or visit www.cochrane.ca