Advocacy - Importance/Effectiveness of Community Ownership

Community Ownership of Renewable Resources: Key to Sustainable Prosperity

The benefits of renewable resources are increased considerably when the resources are owned
locally.

“A significant body of research points to substantial economic, social and environmental benefits in the community ownership of renewable energy projects when measured against the commercial development of renewable generation, or the development of
centralized forms of conventional electricity generation. "

"Several studies have noted that locally-owned renewable generation, and wind generation in particular, creates five to fifteen times more economic activity in the local community than typical commercial developments, particularly in rural economies.”
from: Canadian Renewable Energy Alliance, “Community Power-The Way Forward”, pg 3.

Nova Scotia faces several economic challenges to maintaining or improving the health of its communities and the lifestyle of its inhabitants. Nova Scotians have seen their wealth from their natural capital ‘go down the road’ historically. We have an opportunity with these new resources, to capture the wealth and ensure our economic health for years to come.

The actions and policies of the government of Nova Scotia should support the local ownership of renewable resources insofar as they can. Through access to the grid by local small independent power producers, by community groups, and small and medium enterprises, the exchange of locally produced energy will strengthen the grid and generate local economic activity and local
wealth.

The government will set the groundwork for successful implementation of community-owned renewable energy with its policies. Advanced Renewable Tariffs (ARTs), net metering, and public choice of electricity providers are three key components of a policy framework that will support the development of community-owned renewable resources.

Public choice is key to supporting the growth of local renewable energy ownership. Opening the marketplace to green power producers in Nova Scotia will allow independent power producers to flourish and grow an indigenous local industry. An open market in renewable energy is the most efficacious strategy for growing the industry quickly. It is also essential to making sure that Nova Scotians enjoy the benefits of the wealth created through the exploitation of their renewable resources.