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 honour and acknowledge Moh’kinsstis and the traditional Treaty 7 territory and oral practices of the Blackfoot confederacy: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina nations. We acknowledge that this territory is home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3, within the historical Northwest Métis homeland. Finally, we recognize all Nations who live, work and play on this land and honour and celebrate this territory.
