Cowichan Energy Alternatives

Cowichan Energy Alternatives (CEA) seeks to start non-profit ventures in co-operation with community partners that are environmentally, socially and financially sustainable. CEA also seeks to be the catalyst that helps individuals, grass-root organizations and small businesses take advantage of opportunities arising from the emerging renewable energy sector.

The Cowichan Energy Alternatives Society is a Non-profit organization empowering local citizens to actively adopt sustainable energy practices and technologies that will not only encourage better living but will also reduce Greenhouse Gases.

OUR OBJECTIVES

1) To identify researched-backed alternative energy strategies that can immediately be brought into use in the Cowichan Valley Regional District. Identify and work through easily implemented changes, create projects that make sense locally, are based on well-tested practices and are financially sound. Use the “low hanging fruit” principle.

2) To create a paradigm shift in thinking. Teach and develop strategies that avoid the trap of “silver bullet solutions;” assess natural, human and social resources within the community, join those resources into a common purpose and create “silver buckshot solutions.”

3) To create initiatives that promote the use of renewable energy on various levels. Work with individuals, community groups, governments and private sector organizations in adopting better practices that reduce carbon emissions, and dependency on fossil fuels.

4) Educate ourselves and provide answers to energy issues that are relevant to the needs of individuals, community groups, towns, municipalities and regional governments. Develop demonstrations on how our concepts, programs, and projects can be easily reproducible and replicated to benefit other communities and organizations.