TREC’s recently published report, The Power of Community explores the economic, environmental, and social benefits of locally owned and operated renewable energy initiatives. In general, community owned renewables lead to higher job creation; stronger economic impacts and better social license to develop projects compared to commercially developed projects. Since the creation of the Feed-in Tariff program under Ontario’s Green Energy and Green Economy Act, community participation in renewable energy has increased dramatically. This week, we’re profiling a few co-operatives leading the way in establishing locally-owned renewables in Ontario.
Ottawa Renewable Energy Co-op (OREC)
Ottawa Renewable Energy Co-op (OREC) was one of the first renewable energy co-ops in Ontario. Founded in 2010, OREC partners with Ottawa-area communities, using local roofs and land for community-owned renewable power. OREC currently operates 13 solar projects installed on school rooftops, private barns/warehouses and other facilities, with over 43,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases (CO2 equivalent) avoided to date. So far, over 500 local community members have invested more than $5 million in OREC’s projects, receiving dividend payments on their shares over 20 years.
Below is an interview with OREC’s Communication Associate David Mazur-Goulet:
Why are your members interested in joining / supporting / investing in OREC?
There are many reasons why members choose to join the Ottawa Renewable Energy Co-op. For some, its gives them an opportunity to invest their money through an RRSP or a TFSA in something they believe in; renewable energy that is close to home. Others join simply to support our work knowing that a large membership means more influence with elected officials and shows that we are a credible organization that is working for the good of our community. We also have a smaller group of members and investors who wanted to install their own solar panels on their homes but it wasn’t a good fit.
How do OREC’s projects benefit your surrounding community?
All our projects are financed with investments from residents of Eastern Ontario. That means the money comes from the region and much of it is spent in the region. We hire local companies for engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC). Many of our projects are built with equipment manufactured in Ontario which helps keep money within our province. Partnerships play a very important role in project development. Our projects can be found on schools, housing co-ops, and businesses. Each one of our partners benefit financially by receiving lease payments for their roof space. Some partners benefit from having panels prominently displayed which sends a strong message about that company’s values. Most importantly, our projects are raising awareness about the potential that renewable energy can play in our society.
What have been your biggest challenges?
For many years, our biggest challenge has been securing new projects. We have had to be creative in finding projects to buy or build. There is a strong demand in the area for local and responsible investment opportunities. Now we are working on finding new ways to offer more investment opportunities.
Why does Community Power matter?
Community Power matters because energy generation has had issues in the past due to a lack of a democratic process, a series of financial woes, and a large carbon footprint. Community Power is democratic, its open, and focuses on technologies with a smaller carbon footprint. Its inclusive nature helps to spread the message that renewable energy is cleaner, safer, cheap or cheaper, durable, and 100% possible. Our grids can be more resilient with the help of thousands of micro-generators across the land.
To learn more visit orec.ca