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Sustainability Advisor
Town of Black Diamond, Alberta
Positive results and a big impact
Adopting new technologies or ways of doing things, especially in smaller communities, can be challenging. Issues like people adapting to change and securing funding can hamper the development of renewable energy projects. Numerous smaller projects in water conservation, energy efficiencies and LED lighting upgrades have been in the works in the Town of Black Diamond for a number of years, producing positive results.
The natural next step for us was the development of solar energy arrays to assist in reducing our dependence on polluting forms of creating energy.
The systems and advantages of ownership
Since the installation of solar systems on our municipal facilities, including the array on our Oilfields Regional Arena, a number of residences have also taken the initiative, installing solar arrays on their homes. Neighbours walking by these homes are asking questions about the systems and advantages of ownership.
A truly sustainable community
Visibility is paramount in helping our community reduce its carbon footprint; and the data [that Les Quinton is collecting] is showing residents the positive quantitative impact of taking action. Additional benefits—in addition to creating a healthier environment—include: local business development (read: more green full-time permanent jobs); the development of local energy (district energy) in reducing our dependence on external sources of energy; and most important, the development of a truly sustainable community for the present and far into the future. The true test will be in achieving the goal of a net zero community.
Dusty Williams works with Les Quinton, the Town of Black Diamond’s Parks & Recreation Manager, to champion renewable energy projects throughout the Town of Black Diamond. In 2013, the bullfrogpowered community provided funding for a 10kW solar photovoltaic installation on the roof of the Town’s Oilfields Regional Arena.
