Community Energy Association

The trusted independent advisor to local governments on climate and energy

Renewable Energy in Northern BC

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CEA’s Megan Lohmann leads a discussion about renewable energy in the Wood Innovation Design Centre, Prince George.  

Summary of a conversation prior to the kick-off of the BC Natural Resources Forum

January 20, 2026

Local and regional resiliency, energy self-sufficiency, economic development, pride and leadership, reconciliation at work – these are some of the benefits of renewable energy identified by the participants of a dialogue held in Prince George prior to the kick-off of the BC Natural Resources Forum. 

Renewable Energy in Northern BC: A Power-ful Opportunity brought together renewable energy businesses, community representatives, researchers, and other organizations to identify existing projects in Northern BC, why more are needed, and how communities can participate and benefit. 

Current and Planned Projects 

Participants identified the location of existing and planned renewable energy projects on a map of northern BC. Nearly 50 solar, wind, hydro, bioenergy, and geothermal projects were identified, and stimulated discussion and information-sharing about the projects.  

Renewable Energy 101

On the same day as the dialogue on renewable energy in northern BC that was hosted by CEA, the Canadian Renewable Energy Association (CanREA) and Relay Education hosted a hands-on workshop that exposed the science behind how solar panels and wind turbines actually work. The program helped kick-off Wind and Solar BC, a CanREA public information campaign.

Growing the sector

Participants shared their perspectives on the local and regional benefits of renewable energy development and how to strengthen connections between the industry and communities. Some highlights: 

What comes to mind as a top benefit or outcome of more renewable energy development in Northern BC?

Resilience and energy sovereignty 

“Self-sufficiency through local generation and diversification, especially in remote communities and with increasing climate disasters. Keeping the energy dollars in the area.” 

Regional economic development  

“The ability to promote and facilitate economic development without sacrificing the environment or human health, and that helps in combatting climate change. The chance to create local jobs preparing and maintaining renewables.” 

Indigenous economic development opportunities and reconciliation 

“Energy development represents the future of the nation where I work by providing economic development opportunities and a source of revenue.” 

Legacy  

“Can create a proud legacy for all British Columbians: can provide economic stability globally, regional development, and infrastructure that will continue to grow.”

In your opinion, what needs to happen to capitalize on the renewable energy opportunity in Northern BC?

Shift the narrative 

“Change the way we talk about renewables. We should present it as an economic development tool that secures local energy, lowers costs, and drives growth. It goes beyond emissions reduction.” 

Clear investment pathways 

“We need a survey of demand, to build a forecast that will show economic demand for new projects and meet global environmental expectations. It will also serve our region’s sovereignty and reconciliation needs.” 

Improve funding and approvals 

“Adopt a ‘rural lens’ to address local specific issues/needs. A clearer and simpler process for project applications with BC Hydro. Have BC Hydro recognize multiple individual projects from one proponent.” 

Information-sharing 

“Publish more data from successful projects, which clearly illustrate the benefits. Share stories about projects that have gone ahead and what their impact has been.” 

Innovative partnerships 

“Peer-to-peer learning among local governments. Create opportunities to build cooperation and willingness to work with other stakeholders such as industry, Indigenous leaders, researchers.” 

How can we communicate the value of renewable energy for communities in the North?

Clarify the message 

“Focus on messages that shift the narrative from ‘global climate targets’ to local self-sufficiency and local economic benefits. Emphasize stable and consistent electrical supply.” 

“Non-polluting energy creation in our backyard, with stable long-term employment and cost savings for everyone.” 

Advocacy 

“Use groups like NorthCAN to advocate at the government level.” 

“Peer-to peer learning and support between local governments and other like-minded groups” 

Share local stories 

“Showcase examples of the community building that is an outcome of renewable energy projects. Host site tours with other communities, include local people to share their story. Attend association conferences.” 

Be deliberate 

“Use both social media and traditional means including workshops. Billboards; Facebook videos as ads; use Destination BC to tell the story.” 

Programs and Predictions

In addition to actual projects, participants contributed information about other planning and preparedness they’re advancing in support of the growth in the regional renewable energy sector. This predicted growth was also reflected in how some participants marked the possible trajectory of renewable energy production in northern BC.  

Testimonials

"I attended the Renewable Energy 101 session and the Community Energy Gathering and really appreciated both experiences. The Renewable Energy 101 session was delivered in a fun and interactive way and would be a great fit to bring into communities, helping people better understand what solar and wind energy are in a practical and approachable way. The Community Energy Gathering created a comfortable space to talk openly and share what each participant is working on, which made the conversations meaningful and insightful." 

Ojay Matias, Director of Partnerships and Development
Cheslatta Development Corporation 

“Being able to attend a full day focused on renewables just before the BCNRF was an incredible experience. Seeing two rooms filled with interested, engaged and passionate organizations, local governments, businesses and individuals learning and sharing their experiences and plans was inspiring. It affirmed for me that the North is quietly becoming a leader in renewable energy.” 

Cyra Yunkws, Chair and Electoral Area B representative
Regional District of Kitimat–Stikine