CCEM 104 Question 4

[Carly Johansson]

Which case study did you find most helpful/interesting? Why?

[Carly Johansson]

The Canoe-Creek case study was very helpful to me. The joint venture really underscored the benefits of a limited partnership for First Nations (reduced technical and financial pressures on limited resources). Such arrangements are not currently in vogue in Yukon because most of our First Nations would prefer to own. While full ownership is in keeping with the principles of self-determination enshrined in the Final Agreements, resource availability and capacity to take on new projects is probably limited, and experience with such projects is limited here. A joint venture model would enable First Nations to benefit from distributed generation while reducing their investment requirements.

[Jen Grebeldinger]

I found the Lonsdale Energy Corporation Utility the most interesting and helpful for myself.

This case study showed to me what was possible with the right mix of political leadership and staff commitment to pursue energy independence and lower GHGS. It also demonstrated the advantage of phasing in the system and scaling it accordingly. It was inspiring to read about this.

Clearly North Vancouver was far ahead of most communities in BC since they were doing the feasibility studies in 1998. It sounded like energy self reliance was a major motivation at the time but as GHG reduction became a larger concern to address, the flexibility of the grid and mini plant system allowed for newer technology to be brought in to improve energy efficiency and lower GHGs.

[Jen Grebeldinger]

I agree Rob. The Lonsdale project is a particularly impressive project- such a long term the vision that will evolve with time. To be able to integrate Solar Hot Water collectors into a district heat system is very cool. I don’t know of another system like it.

[Jen Grebeldinger]

Being interested in the technology, I found myself looking up the gear involved in Kelowna’s landfill gas system (Capstone C30 micro turbines) and the Fink Enderby District Energy Utility (Schneider Controls System for billing). It’s difficult for me to pick a favourite, however I really appreciate the Fink system for the boldness and “take action” spirit of Fink Machine Inc.; and the Lonsdale Energy Corporation Utility for a contrasting boldness -a complex system who’s vision came from within city council.

[Carly Johansson]

I personally found both the Cedar Creek and the Lonsdale example most interesting and intriguing. Living on Vancouver Island, it is likely that any alternative power projects would involve First Nations or forward thinking municipal councils/staff.

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