Twenty-seven schools throughout British Columbia will become more energy efficient in 2017, thanks to this year’s Carbon Neutral Capital Program (CNCP) investment of almost $5 million.

School districts will use the money to fund projects that cut greenhouse gas emissions. These upgrades benefit schools by saving them money on electricity, natural gas and maintenance. Schools can put the money that is saved back into classrooms.

School districts can use the funding to upgrade building features that affect energy use, including:

• Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems;
• Windows, lighting and electrical systems; and
• Mechanical systems, including boiler replacements.

As a result of the program, six schools will upgrade the direct digital controls for their HVAC systems this year. The new digital systems cut costs by giving schools better control over their energy use.

The funding will also help schools invest in clean energy alternatives. For example, Penticton Secondary school will use its funding to install a solar panel system. The new system will provide sustainable energy and savings for years ahead.

This year, $4.8 million worth of projects have been approved. The upgrades will be complete by March 31, 2017.

School districts applied for funding by submitting proposals to the Ministry of Education. Projects were selected based on the specific needs of each district, how well they would save money by boosting energy efficiency, and the school district and energy service provider contributions. The CNCP funds up to $5 million worth of projects each year.

By funding carbon-neutral school projects, government is supporting student learning and putting British Columbians first by creating jobs in the province’s growing clean energy sector.

Quotes:

Mike Bernier, Minister of Education –

“With this program, school districts throughout B.C. have become more energy efficient and reduced their operating costs in the process. We are proud to be working with school districts to set an example for our students and communities by taking action to reduce our impact on the environment.”

Mary Polak, Minister of Environment –

“Through the Carbon Neutral Capital Program, we are helping school districts save energy costs, protect the environment and, at the same time, strengthen the economy by creating local jobs.”

Quick Facts:

• Since 2012, the B.C. government has funded almost $25 million in projects under the CNCP. These capital investments help school districts lower their carbon emissions by using more efficient technology in school buildings.
• The CNCP saves districts an average of $2.1 million per year and reduces an average of 6,417 tonnes of carbon.
• Because of its success in K-12 schools, the CNCP was expanded to the health and post-secondary sectors in 2014.

Learn More:

For more information on carbon neutral government: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/climate-change/policy-legislation-programs/carbon-neutral-government

A backgrounder follows.