Municipal Governments

The BC Sustainable Energy Association and its chapters actively engage their municipal governments on local energy issues.

Municipal governments have wide powers over urban planning and land use issues, as well as building standards and community energy plans. As a citizen-driven organization, the BC Sustainable Energy Association encourages local elected officials to take action on climate change and implement sustainable energy solutions as they relate to the municipal level. Recent changes to the Community Charter and the Local Government Act give municipalities increased powers and responsibilities to regulate and develop plans around greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency and water efficiency. Land use and development planning, building efficiency bylaws and greenhouse gas reduction plans are key issues for sustainability. An overview of local government policy capabilities can be found at the Community Energy Association website.