The Ontario Power Authority announced the launch of its Municipal Energy Plan (MEP) program and its Aboriginal Community Energy Plan (ACEP) programs in late August.
Respectively, the programs are intended to help small and medium-sized municipalities and First Nation and Métis communities develop local energy plans that focus on increasing conservation and identifying the best energy infrastructure options for a community. Energy plans are expected to help municipalities and First Nation and Métis communities to:
• Assess their energy use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
• Identify opportunities to conserve, improve energy efficiency and reduce GHG emissions
• Consider impact of future growth and options for local clean energy generation
• Support economic development by better meeting local energy needs.
A government statement noted that, “Engaging municipalities and Aboriginal communities is part of the new Ontario government’s plan to build strong communities, powered by clean, reliable and affordable energy” and provided the following facts:
• The MEP and ACEP programs are application-based so enrolment by municipalities and First Nation and Métis communities is optional. However it is expected that participation in these programs will complement the Long-Term Energy Plan and regional energy plans by focusing on unique community needs and goals.
• Successful MEP program applicants will receive funding for 50 per cent of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $90,000.
• First Nation and Métis communities will be eligible for up to $90,000 to develop a community energy plan under ACEP, with remote communities eligible for up to $95,000.
The MEP program is designed to help municipalities better understand their local energy needs and conservation opportunities, set goals and develop implementation plans. An MEP takes an integrated approach to energy planning by aligning energy, infrastructure and land use planning. The MEP program will focus on supporting small and medium-sized municipalities who have fewer resources to develop these plans. Applications are due to the Ontario Power Authority by November 29, 2013 at 12:00pm.
The revised ACEP Program is an annual proposal-based program that assists First Nations and Métis Communities in developing a community energy plan or to update an existing community energy plan. A community energy plan is a comprehensive long-term plan to improve energy efficiency, reduce electricity consumption and assess opportunities for green energy solutions. The ACEP Program supports First Nations and Métis communities in determining local interests, prioritizing unique needs and opportunities in electricity conservation and clean small-scale generation. ACEP applications must also be received by 12:00pm on November 29, 2013 to be considered for funding.