The Bow Valley Green Energy Cooperative (BVGEC) leads in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing sustainability as Alberta’s first member-owned renewable energy developer to install solar panels. With 455kW of community-owned solar capacity generating 860MWh of clean energy, BVGEC has offset over 600 tons of CO₂. Future projects, including a 250kW solar installation, aim to expand this impact.
BVGEC’s equitable business model overcomes barriers to renewable energy by enabling communities to invest and benefit regardless of income or housing constraints. Profits fund future projects through the Community Benefit Fund, supporting installations for underfunded community buildings.
Its 291kW solar project at Baymag Inc. showcases collaboration with industry, integrating renewables into high-emission sectors and setting a precedent for scaling sustainability. By cutting emissions, fostering community engagement, and driving systemic change, BVGEC is a standout candidate for the Sustainability Trailblazers Award.
In the spirit of respect, reciprocity, and truth, we acknowledge that we live, work, and gather on the traditional territories of the peoples of Treaty 7, including the Blackfoot Confederacy—comprising the Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani Nations—as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina Nations.
This land, known as Moh’kinsstis in the Blackfoot language and encompassing what is now Districts 5 and 6, is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3, within the historical Northwest Métis homeland.
We recognize and honour the deep connection these Nations have to the land, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share in its stewardship.
As we continue our work, we commit to learning from Indigenous knowledge systems, uplifting Indigenous voices, and fostering relationships rooted in equity, understanding, and reconciliation.
