The Province of BC and BC Hydro are providing $1.8 million to the Community Energy Association over the next three years to strengthen energy efficiency initiatives across British Columbia. The funding, the largest in the history of the Community Energy Association, aims to build local capacity and accelerate the implementation of innovative, energy-efficient solutions.

BC Hydro’s President and CEO Chris O’Riley announced the investment on May 6 at the True North Business Development Forum, hosted by the Prince George Chamber of Commerce. Nearly half of the funding will directly support high-impact programs in northern B.C., fostering partnerships with local governments and the building industry. This multi-year investment will help the region transition to a high-performance, energy-efficient and resilient building stock while advancing cutting-edge community-based solar projects that create jobs and energize northeastern B.C.

“Northern B.C. is a leader in energy efficiency and community resilience, offering innovative solutions that can inspire the rest of the province,” said O’Riley. “This funding will empower local communities, drive sustainable initiatives, and enhance energy efficiency efforts throughout British Columbia.”

BC Hydro CEO Chris O’Riley (right) announced a $1.8 million, three-year investment by the Province of BC and BC Hydro in the Community Energy Association during the TrueNorth Business Development Forum in Prince George.

The funding also supports regional collaborations, delivering widespread training programs to local government staff, industry professionals, and construction and trades workers—particularly in underserved northern and rural areas. Additionally, the investment will help develop "best practice" guides to assist local governments in integrating energy-efficient technologies.

“There are so many ways that local climate action can benefit communities, such as increased affordability, support for local businesses, and greater protection from extreme weather,” says Megan Lohmann, CEO of the Community Energy Association. “BC Hydro has been a generous supporter of CEA for many years, and this new, multi-year investment is a strategic way for both our organizations to support real market transformation and make sure those benefits are felt in communities.”

Community Energy Association, originally formed as a committee by the Government of BC, the Union of BC Municipalities, and BC Hydro more than 25 years ago, is now a nonprofit charity dedicated to accelerating climate and energy initiatives in local governments and Indigenous communities. Governed by a Board of Directors, it actively engages with over 50 member organizations, the majority of which represent local governments and Indigenous groups.