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 Energy

What is solar energy?

Solar energy is energy from the sun in the form of radiated light and heat. The sun’s radiant energy can be used to provide lighting and heat for buildings and to produce electricity.  It is a renewable resource and unique for its ability to generate energy in a quiet, clean, and consistent manner over long periods of time.

There are two common solar technologies that folks talk about

Solar photovoltaics (PV) which harnesses the sun’s light to produce electricity. Solar PV is is a great option in Stony Plain, and it works well in northern climates because solar PV actually has better production capability in the cold.

Solar thermal which harnesses the sun’s heat, usually to heat water.

Where can solar 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 is a great way to:

  • Drastically reduce or even eliminate your electric bills
  • Protect against rising energy costs
  • Increase your property value
  • Protect the environment
  • Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability

Is solar feasible in Stony Plain?

Yes, solar is very feasible in Stony Plain, there are many other considerations when thinking about adding solar to your home. Solar Alberta has a Learn About Solar 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)