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As we begin implementation of the Community Energy Plan there will be many projects requiring community consultation and resident feedback. To reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption locally, it’s critical that residents and businesses continue to be involved and engaged in this process. Stay up to date with all engagement opportunities by subscribing to our online consultation portal below:
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What is a Community Energy Plan? |
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The Town has developed a Community Energy Plan that establishes the direction for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy use in the community while contributing to the local economy. The plan was endorsed by Aurora Town Council in January 2021. A Community Energy Plan is a comprehensive long term plan to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas. The CEP results in a comprehensive energy plan that fosters a culture of conservation, considers the impact of future growth and options for local clean energy generation and supports economic development by better meeting local energy needs. The CEP will allow the Town of Aurora to integrate energy planning into the land use planning process and help develop longer term energy strategies. In October 2019, the Town Council joined 457 Canadian municipalities and declared a Climate Emergency. Those cities have established a goal of reducing GHG emissions by 80 per cent by 2050, as per the Paris Accord. This target will require significant action from organizations, businesses, residents and the municipality.
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Why is the Aurora CEP important? |
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Aurora's population is growing. The forecast population for Aurora in 2031 is approximately 70,200 persons and 34,200 jobs. That is a 17 percent increase over our current population of 60,000 persons. We need to understand how we can accommodate the population and still reduce our carbon footprint. The majority of this population growth will be accommodated by higher density developments; we have reached our urban boundary and as such our new development and redevelopment will become increasingly vertical. Benefits of Energy Planning:
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What will the Aurora CEP achieve? |
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The vision for Aurora’s Community Energy Plan (CEP): “Aurora is a leader in energy and emissions reduction, with a focus on improving quality of life in collaboration with residents, organizations and businesses." The following principles will be taken into account for the Community Energy Plan (CEP) development:
The Community Energy Plan (CEP) will capture Aurora's energy use today and provide a strategic plan on how to move forward towards a sustainable energy system. It is anticipated that the CEP will bring financial, social and environmental benefits to the municipality, residents, businesses, developers, and major institutions. It is expected that the CEP will address such things as energy efficient buildings and neighbourhoods, energy-efficient transportation systems, efficient energy distribution, clean and renewable energy, and greenhouse gas emissions, in addition to other areas that may be identified through the public consultation process. |
How was the CEP be developed? |
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The CEP will consist of a Stakeholder Engagement component, followed by a Baseline Energy Study, Energy Map(s) and the development of a Community Energy Plan (CEP). The CEP will identify opportunities for green energy solutions and conservation measures meant to support local economic development and community objectives of energy and conservation, waste and greenhouse gas emission reduction. Project Scope:Funding for this project has been retained from:
The Town of Aurora has retained LURA Consulting, ICLEI Canada and Wood to assist with the development of the Community Energy Plan in three stages: Stage 1: Stakeholder engagement; Engagement will include Stakeholder Working Group, engagement with municipal staff and utilities, and the public. Stakeholder Working Group Meeting TimelinesStage 2: Gathering and analyzing existing baseline data, including energy mapping; allowing for analysis of opportunities for energy reduction/conservation initiatives. Community Energy & Emissions Baseline will measure:
Stage 3: The creation of the Plan and presentation to General Committee and Council for approval; Long-term vision and strategy for energy conservation and green energy solutions.
Council endorsed the Community Energy Plan on January 26, 2021. |
Community Engagement Initiatives |
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As implementation of the Community Energy Plan begins, there will be many opportunities for residents to engage. Be sure to subscribe to our Community Energy Plan online consultation to be advised of opportunities as they unfold. Visit EngageAurora.ca/cep |
If you would like to sign up for updates, please email Natalie Kehle, Analyst, Energy and Climate Change at nkehle@aurora.ca
Bill Jean, Michael Bat, Greta Zinck, Nick Kazakoff
