The Net-Zero Communities Accelerator (NCA) program utilizes proven tools and services to develop and continuously implement community emission reduction plans in participating communities. The program provides a robust suite of resources and guidance, enabling communities to attain the economic, environmental, and social benefits associated with their emissions plans.
Distinct to the NCA program is its prioritization of integrated planning, including all relevant stakeholders, its inclusivity of communities of all sizes, and its adaptability to the unique context of each participating community. The program introduces communities to new ways of thinking and working, supporting them on their pathway to net-zero.
The Action Centre is delivering the NCA Prairies Cohort in partnership with QUEST Canada, the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources (CIER), Community Energy Association (CEA), and Éco-Ouest Canada / Eco-West Canada.
Participating Communities
The Prairies Cohort comprises 12 participating communities from Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan.
The 12 participating communities from the Prairies Cohort include:
- City of St. Albert, AB
- A partnership of Town of Pincher Creek and the MD of Pincher Creek, AB
- City of Lethbridge, AB
- City of Medicine Hat, AB
- Town of Devon, AB
- Town of Okotoks, AB
- Town of Biggar, SK
- Town of Gravelbourg, SK
- Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation, MB
- St. Theresa Point First Nation, MB
- Rural Municipality of De Salaberry, MB
The NCA program offers two streams of services for participating communities: foundation building or project initiation. There are dedicated tools and services specific to each stream as well as shared supports and services within both stream options.
Foundation Building
Building the foundational knowledge and plans a community needs to action local energy and emissions plans and initiatives. Activities in this stream also include coaching and navigating services, connecting communities with others who are also learning about and actioning community energy and emissions planning.
Project Initiation
Building the foundation to launch a program, a project, or a policy that will result in reduced energy usage and emissions across the community or region. Activities in this stream also include coaching and navigational services, connecting communities with others learning about and actioning community energy and emissions planning.
Shared Supports
Additional shared supports and services are offered to participants in both streams.
Learn more about this program from QUEST Canada:
- Net Zero Communities Accelerator (https://questcanada.org/nca/)
- News Release – QUEST Canada and Partnering Organizations Launch the NCA Program’s Inaugural Prairies Cohort of Participating Communities (https://questcanada.org/project/inaugural-prairies-cohort-of-participating-communities/ )
There may be opportunities for additional participants. To stay aware of application opportunities, please subscribe to the MCCAC newsletter.