Town passes energy management policy

By Trevor Busch

Taber Times

editor@tabertimes.com

A new energy management policy passed by town council should make it easier for the municipality to qualify for grant funding through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).

“This is a new policy that we’ve been working on for a while, I think even before I got here,” said CAO Derrin Thibault at town council’s May 23 meeting. “It is a requirement for some of the grant funding that we’re going after.”

According to administration, previous town projects like the Combined Heat and Power System at the Taber Aquafun Centre, L.E.D. lighting upgrades at various town-owned facilities, the ground mounted solar system at the industrial lagoons, and the AESO Demand Response Program show a commitment on the part of the municipality to effective energy management. 

“The intent of the Energy Management Policy is twofold: formally endorse the commitment from council, administration and the community as it relates to effective energy management; and two, as administration moves forward with the Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP), the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) requires a formal commitment from council in regards to energy management and sustainability for grant and loan applications,” said Blake Hranac, facilities maintenance and energy manager.

The Town of Taber is, “committed to reducing its environmental impact and energy costs through effective energy management. Through the application of an Energy Management Policy, the Town will incorporate energy management practices into operations and maintenance, reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and reduce energy costs for the organization and community,” reads a statement included as part of the policy. 

Energy Management Policy PS-PW-7 was passed unanimously by town council.