Energy Efficiency Upgrades

What is energy efficiency?

Energy efficiency means using less energy to perform the same tasks, which reduces excess energy use and lowers energy costs. By using less energy, we can reduce environmental impacts while reducing the cost to the end-user.

Why be energy efficient?

  • Save money

  • Improve the health of the environment

  • Create more jobs in the energy sector

How can I make my home more energy efficient?

There are many ways that you can make your home more energy efficient. Some common examples are:

  • LED Lightbulbs

  • Energy-efficient windows

  • Adding insulation

  • Programmable thermostats

Saving money and energy doesn’t have to be a large investment. Small changes and improvements can add up over time. For more examples of energy efficiency in your home, please visit the Government of Canada’s Energy Efficiency for Homes page.

The Canadian Greener Homes Grant also provides funds for home efficiency evaluations and retrofits. 

 

Solar Panels

What is solar?

Solar energy is energy converted from the sun into electrical energy through photovoltaic (PV) panels or to provide heating. Solar energy can only be harnessed during the daytime when the sun is clear from clouds, buildings, or other objects.

Where can solar panels be installed?

The scale of solar is quite broad. It can be a huge operation, such as on a solar farm, or on major industrial, commercial or residential buildings. It can also be done at the homeowner level, on the roof of individual houses.

Why should I have solar on my home?

Installing solar on your home has many benefits besides helping Alberta transition to renewable energy. Solar panels are a great way to reduce heating and electricity costs in your home, saving you money in the long run. Solar can also increase your property value and ensure that your property is protected from energy shortages.

Is solar feasible in Stony Plain?

Yes, solar is feasible in Stony Plain, however not every property is properly suited to accommodate solar. An ideal solar site will face south and have 100% solar access year round. There are also many other considerations when thinking about adding solar to your home. Solar Alberta has a Solar Buyers Guide on their website with helpful information to consider before you buy.

Permitting Process

Solar panels that are mounted to a building require a building permit, but are exempt from a development permit, provided that the proposed development complies with all applicable provisions of the Land Use Bylaw.

Choosing a Solar Provider

It is important to do your research when selecting a solar provider. The Solar Guide provided by Solar Alberta is a step-by-step guide when wanting to explore opportunities for capturing solar energy. The Solar Alberta website is a great resource to learn more about solar.

 

Provincially Regulated Invasive Species

What is an invasive species?

An invasive species is a non-native species that is introduced to a new environment that then becomes overpopulated due to a lack of natural predators. Invasive species can often carry diseases that native species are susceptible to and can quickly take over native species habitats. This threatens the survival of native species, which is detrimental to our ecosystems and environmental industries causing economic losses in forestry, agriculture and fisheries.

What kinds of invasive species are there? 

Invasive species can be any type of organism that is not native to the area. One example of a common invasive species is the goldfish. When individuals release goldfish into Alberta’s waterways, they can grow over 2 feet in size and can take over the ecosystem.

You can find a complete list of Alberta’s invasive species through the Alberta Invasive Species Council. The Aquatic Invasive Species Pocket Guide is a helpful tool when identifying invasive species on the water. 

Should I report an invasive species?        

Yes! You should report all suspected invasive species immediately to the provincial government.

Resources:

https://abinvasives.ca/take-action/

https://www.eddmaps.org/

1-855-336-BOAT (2628)