Clean Energy Improvement Program to transition to the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre

On June 11, 2020, the Government of Alberta announced the dissolution of Energy Efficiency Alberta (EEA), effective September 30, 2020.

Energy efficiency remains an important part of the Government of Alberta’s plan to reduce costs and cut carbon. As part of the Government of Alberta’s red tape reduction efforts, some of EEA’s programs and associated staff will transition to Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA), Alberta Environment and Parks, and the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre (the Action Centre).

The Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP), Alberta’s version of Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE), will be delivered by the Action Centre. CEIP is a financing tool which helps property owners upgrade their building’s energy performance and install renewable energy solutions with the financing repaid through their property tax bill.

The investments in CEIP are being preserved, including the transition of some EEA staff and infrastructure to the Action Centre. The Action Centre is well positioned to deliver this program by virtue of:

• our collaborative partnership with the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association and Rural Municipalities of Alberta;
• our strong connection to municipalities;
• our solid foundation in energy efficiency and renewable energy programs; and
• the substantial opportunity for synergies with existing and future programs.

Shifting the delivery of CEIP to the Action Centre will enable municipalities to access increased energy efficiency expertise and leverage clean energy financing options for their residents. Municipalities across Alberta will continue to benefit from existing Action Centre programs that help local governments to access knowledge, expertise, and funding to reduce emissions and advance climate change initiatives.

Over the next 90 days, the Action Centre will work closely with the Government of Alberta and EEA to ensure a smooth transition. More communication will follow in the coming weeks to ensure stakeholders know who to contact with questions.

We look forward to diversifying our contribution to Alberta’s energy efficiency journey.