OSEA member RESCo Energy has several job openings. Apply now!

RESCo is one of Canada’s largest Solar-Focused EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) firms.

Last week OSEA met with the Minister of Energy to discuss the shortfalls of the Small FIT process and to make recommendations to ensure that the program can move forward letting those who passed the initial screening progress while recognizing that there are major problems that need to be addressed and that those that were rejected should be provided a curing process and priority during the next round.

Michel comes to OSEA as a highly qualified marketing strategist, recognized for addressing the marketing and branding challenges of North America's leading multi-national companies and institutions. He is respected for conceptual insights, leadership and growth strategies through marketing, public relations, policy, product development, consumer advertising, and trade communications.

Toronto Star op-ed by Gillian McEachern & Kris Stevens

A whole new industry exists in Ontario that wasn't here four years ago.

The Green Energy and Green Economy Act set the province up as a leader in the emerging global clean energy industry. It’s time to show that we’re in it for the long haul.

Open letter to ALL Ontario MPPs,
The Ontario Sustainable Energy Association (OSEA) understands that the Province is preparing to review the Long Term Energy Plan: a plan that will govern as much as $80 billion worth of investment in the province over the coming decade. OSEA applauds the Province for taking a proactive approach and continuing to assess Ontario’s future energy needs and options.

OSEA is concerned that the review will include a renewed commitment to nuclear power...

Dear OSEA Members, Friends and Supporters,

This morning I had the opportunity to meet briefly with Minister Chiarelli's staff to express concerns about the recent notification letters regarding your applications for the Small FIT.

In 2005 the M'Chigeeng First Nation ("MFN") had a dream to build a wind farm and they installed a wind test tower on a 10 acre parcel of land on a high bluff overlooking their village.

What follows herein is a story of patience in overcoming technical challenges leading to the achievement of permission in 2010 to proceed with a 4 MW wind farm project.

- via Wind-Works.org

The Energy Transition is becoming a fashion item! Kirsten Hasberg announced the launch of her crowd-sourced venture EnergyDemocracy.TV at the Pathways to 100% Renewable Energy conference in San Francisco April 16, 2013. In doing so, Kirsten flashed her painted fingernails on which are the symbols of renewable energy technologies that make energy democracy possible.

- via Renewables International

Combined wind and solar power has reached a new record in Germany. Wind and solar company compliment each other very well, with more wind power being generated when less solar and vice versa. However, when wind and solar power converge as they did last week in Germany, they have the capacity to significantly threaten natural gas, coal and nuclear energy. This occurrence, though unusual, could become a trend in the future as renewable energy becomes more feasible and competitive.

- via HuffingtonPost.ca

Canada consistently ranks in the top 10 in terms of clean tech innovation. Many Canadian companies are pioneering innovative green technology but their success is jeopardized by the lack of investor interest. From underwater energy storage to smarter solar panels, this article takes a look at companies from across the country that are developing technology that could change the way we live, work and commute.

-via Renewable Energy World

During a time when other countries are exploring the opportunities of offshore wind power, Ontario has yet to take a leadership position in the matter. The United States is already committing to new offshore projects on their side of the Great Lakes because of the associated benefits. If Ontario adapts offshore wind power, it will have a very powerful, low impact, emission free tool for dealing with peak energy demands.

OSEA member and wind turbine manufacturer REpower Systems, a Suzlon Group company, announced that it has chosen Welland, Ontario for the setup of a blade production factory. For this purpose, REpower Systems is in the process of refurbishing a facility within the vicinity of Welland.

A clinical study released today in Australia finds that sickness being attributed to windmills is more likely to have been caused by people getting alarmed at the health warnings circulated by anti-wind activists.

OSEA Member EthoSolar is seeking to hire a qualified Sales Manager.

Toronto chosen as site for premier renewable energy event, All-Energy Canada, in April, 2014
(February 21, 2013, Norwalk, CT) Reed Exhibitions today announced that the All-Energy Canada Exhibition & Conference will take place April 9-10, 2014 at Toronto’s Exhibition Place. The date was selected after close consultation with industry associations operating in Canada’s renewable energy sector.

A summary whitepaper on the OSEA webinar Financing For Everyone! Municipalities Can Help Locals Save and Make Money Through Local Improvement Charges.

Find out about what OSEA's Hydro Power Leadership Group been up to.

The OSEA Community would like to congratulate Kathleen Wynne, Premier Designate, on her election as the leader of the Liberal Party of Ontario. Ms. Wynnes track record of consensus building, track record as a successful Cabinet Minister with various portfolios, commitment to bringing greater focus to rural Ontario and her ground breaking work on the sustainable energy file all bode well to the Liberal Party's renewal and to bridge building with all of the other parties.

On behalf of OSEA members Harry French, Community Power Leadership group co-chair and Ontario Sustainability Services director, participated in a Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) licensing division meeting that updated the co-op sector and renewable energy sector on the types of renewable energy co-op structures that FSCO will consider approving.

In 2012 OSEA, through our events, webinars, campaigns and advocacy work have continued to serve as a voice for the sector, create opportunities and rise to the challenges of the past year. Here is a look at some of our efforts during the past year.

The OSEA team would like to wish you all a happy holiday season and thank you for your hard work, perseverance and support in 2012.  As our year in review video highlights, we have accomplished a lot together and 2013 promises new challenges and rewards.  Thank you for being part of our community and all the best to you and yours in 2013.

The Community Energy Partnership Program (CEPP) 2.0 has been announced!  Guidelines have been posted and the new rules and application forms for funding of up to $500,000 are expected soon.

The Ontario Power Authority (OPA) sent out a notification this evening confirming that the new FIT 2.0 rules, forms and contract will be released and the application window opened for Small Feed-in Tariff projects this coming Friday December 14th.

New FIT applications to be taken

A long pause in Ontario’s uptake of new green energy projects is ending.

Energy Minister Chris Bentley said this week Ontario will begin taking Feed-In Tariff (FIT) applications for up to 200 megawatts of small renewable power generating projects again Dec. 14.

The window for the Ontario program that awards contracts to green energy generators had been closed while the province carried out a review that began in the fall of 2011.

“It has been a long time since the review began and not many businesses can sustain themselves for a year and a half without any new business,” said Kristopher Stevens, executive director of the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association.

It had recently been calling on the province to reopen the FIT process.

The Minister of Energy announced yesterday that the province will proceed with another 200 megawatts of small scale renewable energy projects under the FIT Program. Applications will begin to be accepted on December 14th.

A new opinion poll commissioned by Friends of the Earth Canada shows overwhelming support for green energy in Ontario, and strong opposition to the World Trade Organization (WTO)’s meddling in buy local programs that create thousands of green jobs for Ontarians.

The survey conducted by Oraclepoll Research found that 83% of Ontarians believe it is important to have more renewable, green energy in Ontario to deal with climate change and help reduce record levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Only 11% of respondents believe that it is not important to take action.

By: Gerard Wynn

Nov 27 (Reuters) - A shift towards renewable power in Germany is seeing ownership of generating assets move to households, farmers and small businesses, away from utilities which are losing out on the advantages of wind and solar in a continuing trend.

European utilities are suffering from weak power demand and falling wholesale prices.

On October 25, 2012, Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, filed two new regulations that give municipalities real power to drive energy efficiency and renewable energy generation in their communities.

The amendments enable municipalities to use a local improvement charge (LIC) to help residents finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.

Will we go quietly, letting FIT 2.0 and 3.0 die when we have the power to save it?

The last release of FIT contracts was made in July of 2011. FIT 2.0 has been "coming soon" since January 2012 with manufacturers, First Nations, community and commercial developers waiting in limbo. WE need to give our leaders a clear signal that the FIT must continue and that further delays are unacceptable!

OSEA’s recent workshop and networking session on Acquiring and Investing in FIT Contracts, held on the afternoon of Thursday, October 11, 2011 in Vaughan, was a smashing success! We were thrilled to host close to 90 buyers, sellers, investors and investment seekers.

On Thursday, October 11, 2012, the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association hosted Powering Prosperity, a night that brought together the who's who of the sustainable energy sector. Nearly 400 supporters, members, and new friends joined us for dinner, drinks, and the opportunity to discuss the relationship between sustainable energy and economic growth.

The Ontario Sustainable Energy Association (OSEA) with your help is developing a Roadmap to 2020. As a starting point, we need to reconfirm and/or revise the Vision. What follows are samples from the original vision elements and space for you to add your own important signposts and actions.

Mr. Christian Buchmann, Minister for Economy, Europe and Culture from the Austrian province Styria, together with a group of more than 50 business and trade association representatives and journalists, will be visiting Toronto on October 22nd. The part of the delegation is a group of companies with expertise in renewable energy, prepared to meet Canadian business experts in similar industries.

On November 2^nd, the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association is partnering with Mediaplanet Publishing House to produce an independent 8-12 page insert in The National Post dedicated to Alternative Energy. The aim of this publication is to educate the public and highlight the industry leaders responsible for renewable energy in Canada and fueling our future sustainably.

In anticipation of co-presenting the Canadian premiere of Switch at the 13th Annual Planet in Focus Environmental Film Festival, OSEA is giving away tickets to the Saturday, 12pm showing.

At the invitation of the Ontario Power Authority (OPA), OSEA recently provided several recommendations to help improve the alignment of the Community and Aboriginal Energy Partnership Programs (CEPP and AEPP) with the new FIT 2.0 rules to better support Community Power projects in Ontario.

OSEA is thrilled to be part of the 13th Annual Planet in Focus Environmental Film Festival in Toronto, October 10–14, 2012. We will be co-presenting the Canadian premier of the documentary Switch on Saturday, October 13 at 12:00p.m. at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. Stay tuned in the coming weeks for how you can win tickets to the screening through OSEA!

The Whitchurch-Stouffville Community Energy Co-operative Inc. (WSCEC Inc.) was pleased to welcome Minister of Energy Chris Bentley to Stouffville on Sept 20th. The Minister applauded the leaders in the Co-operative and President Harry French for their vision in launching a community inspired renewable energy project.

OSEA's Executive Director Kristopher Stevens appeared on the Not Green in My Back Yard (September 12, 2012) episode of TVO's The Agenda with Steve Paikin. The episode examined the collision between new green initiatives and local interests. The panel also included Keith Stewart, Climate & Energy Campaigner, Greenpeace Canada, Norm Ragetlie, Director of Policy and Stakeholder Engagement, Rural Ontario Institute, Mark Gerretsen, Mayor of Kingston, Ontario, Theresa McClenaghan, Executive Director and Counsel, Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA).

Stakeholder Submission Regarding Health Canada Wind Turbine Noise and Health Study
Submission by: The Ontario Sustainable Energy Association
Submitted to: Dr. David S. Michaud, Principal Investigator Consumer and Clinical Radiation Protection, Health Canada
Submitted: September 7, 2012

OSEA and Koenig & Consultants launch Ontario Sustainability Services to energize communities

New focus, full service, familiar faces
The Ontario Sustainable Energy Association and Koenig & Consultants are excited to announce the evolution of OSEA’s Community Power Services Group with the launch of Ontario Sustainability Services to support commercial, community and aboriginal sustainable energy projects.

Used 50m Meteorological Towers for sale by the Wikwemikong Development Commission. Assess the wind potential of your project!

Reed Exhibitions, the world’s leading event organiser, has now announced the first All-Energy Canada, which is being held on October 2nd and 3rd 2013 at Exhibition Place, Toronto. This new event is being held in association with the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association (OSEA) and, like the two other All-Energy events, will encompass all aspects of renewable and sustainable energy, combining a major exhibition and highly relevant and topical conference.

The new requirement under FIT 2.0 for a By-law to be passed as part of the Municipal Council Support Resolution process has been outlined by OSEA member Brant Renewable Energy working in collaboration with their municipality and the law firm Aird and Berlis LLP.

OSEA is please to provide its members the following analysis of Feed-in Tariff (FIT) 2.0.

Gary Johnson, Interim Chair of the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance (CEEA), is pleased to announce that Elizabeth McDonald is joining CEEA as President and CEO.

Great news! The Ontario Power Authority has released the final rules for FIT 2.0 relating to small FIT projects!

The recent Minister Directive for the draft FIT 2.0 rules confirmed the OPA’s interest in encouraging project developers who are not renewable energy (RE) Co-Ops to join forces with RE Co-Ops to secure grid access. What does this mean for the emerging community power co-operative sector?  OSEA asked Lerners LLP, a pre-eminent legal firm serving co-operative businesses, for their take on the opportunity. We are pleased to share their perspective.

We are back from our Renewable Energy Tour to Germany and very pleased to report that an awesome time was had by all! Seeing the potential of so much renewable energy first hand and visting communities that have gone 100% renewable left everyone inspired and wanting to bring these ideas back home to Ontario. With this in mind we have started a new blog...

OSEA is pleased to announce the election of Harry French, Director of OSEA's Community Power Services Group as a Board member of the Ontario Co-operative Association (OnCoop). In this new role Harry will have the opportunity to further contribute to the ongoing development of Ontario's co-operative policy and regulatory environment.

The rapid deployment of renewable energy throughout Ontario is a goal OSEA has consistently advocated. We have successfully advanced this position this through the development of innovative policy alternatives for sustainable energy, the support of grass-roots based community power groups employing the co-operative governance model and by advancing the economic case for distributed energy. OSEA is pleased to launch a new Tool that will assist both community and commercial developers to obtain additional FIT contract priority points.

Congratulations to the community of M'Chigeeng First Nation on bringing their 4MW Mother Earth Renewable Energy (MERE) wind project into commercial operation this past June 15th! At long last, the M'Chigeeng community can begin to reap the rewards of its sustainable vision, financial investment, hard work, determination and perseverance. To celebrate the commissioning of the MERE Wind project the community held a full day grand opening ceremony on June 15th with high profile guests including community leaders, government officials and keynote speaker Dr. David Suzuki. The project is Ontario's first wind farm 100% owned by a First Nation and is located on M'Chigeeng First Nation lands.

The Whitchurch-Stouffville Community Energy Co-operative (WSCEC) held its first public meeting on May 22, 2012 for a cooperatively-owned solar power project in Whitchurch-Stouffville, Ontario. As their initial project, WSCEC is planning to install a 250kW rooftop solar system on the Clippers Sports Complex in Stouffville. The launch meeting, entitled Energy Solutions For The Next Generation, introduced the co-operative and its vision to the wider community. The meeting was attended by an interested crowd, some coming down to Stouffville from surrounding towns and villages.

Mobilising support for renewable energy begins with one reality: moral arguments are noble but ultimately insufficient. To achieve more widespread and rapid change, it is crucial to communicate renewable energy development as an economic strategy for individuals and businesses. We need to frame the discourse not in normative statements about "saving the environment", but rather, in terms of economic returns, risks, and opportunities.

April 27th is the deadline to submit your feedback to the Ontario Power Authority on the draft FIT 2.0 rules, contract and definitions. We need you, your family and colleagues to get your input in to the OPA to ensure that they have your great ideas on how to improve the program. Based on feedback from our members, OSEA has drafted a list of priority recommendations to the FIT 2.0 rules. Use these recommendations as a part of your submission to the OPA.

The Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program update announced today is a positive and natural progression of the FIT program and a victory for communities, First Nations and progressive renewable energy developers. “The Government’s re-engagement and willingness to improve the program is both very important and timely.” stated Kris Stevens, OSEA’s Executive Director. OSEA believes the enhanced role of municipalities combined with the changes that ease community and First Nations participation will fortify Ontario’s growing green economy. These improvements are important steps toward maximizing local benefits, creating jobs and addressing legitimate local concerns.

Ontario Sustainable Energy Association is neither surprised nor concerned that electricity prices from renewable sources under the Feed-in tariff (FIT) are expected to drop by at least 25%. The Government of Ontario has demonstrated leadership by passing the Green Energy and Green Economy Act and should aggressively leverage its smart investment, maximizing ratepayer benefit while strengthening the emerging green economy.

OSEA is excited to announce its four new Directors after its Annual General Meeting, held this past Saturday February 25th. The four new Directors join a pragmatic board of future focused leaders committed to the transition to a more sustainable energy system in Ontario. In this future, dubbed Green Energy Ontario 3.0, we will have lower energy bills, cleaner air and water and a more reliable, distributed and resilient energy system that creates good jobs, prosperous communities and healthy businesses.
Find out more about our new board members >>

OSEA would like to thank their members for participating in NorthBridges SR&ED Survey. The data from this survey will be used to develop the scope and content of upcoming SR&ED webinars and/or workshops and assist in the development of a portfolio of flexible service offerings, tailored to our unique industry. This feedback and the survey data are instrumental to the development of our plan: Supporting & Stimulating innovation within the Ontario-based Renewable Energy Industry – the Secret to Sustainable Growth.

OSEA recently filed a submission with the Commission on the Reform of Ontario's Public Services highlighting two troubling issues. Firstly that some public agencies are hindering progress and adding cost with managerial ineffectiveness; and secondly, that the proposed long-term energy plan that directs the OPA to draft an Integrated Power Systems Plan represents a serious concern as it creates a set-aside for expensive nuclear power while putting a cap on cheaper conservation, combined heat and power (CHP) and renewable energy.

In the next couple of years we are going to have to make some big decisions in Ontario about nuclear energy. In late 2011 OSEA released its report on nuclear energy's business case (or rather lack there of) to kick start the discussion and to point out the myths being propagated about green energy. Soon after its release OSEA was invited to take part in the Global Conference for a Nuclear Power Free World in Japan. The conference was mind blowing and left us with a strong desire to share what we have learned. Please read on and ask yourself, "Do you support nukes?"

Watch the highlight reel of OSEA's activities, events, campaigns and more from 2011.
It has been quite the year for OSEA. We made lots of new friends and shared quality time with old ones at our monthly Solar Drinks, annual conference and Green Connection events. We have continued to facilitate the ongoing dialogue around the FIT review and Green Energy 2.0 with great policy work, regular webinars, informative publications and engaging workshops. As well, we were there in the trenches rallying support for the Community Power sector amidst uncertainty and misinformation leading up to the fall election.

OSEA wants to help municipalities get honest information about their powers and responsibilities when it comes to renewable energy development.

Find out how your municipality can be a key partner in helping Ontario become a clean energy leader.
Go to our Tumblr blog: OSEA's Municipal Green Energy Brief >>

Check out our great green holiday gift ideas for the sustainable energy champion on your list. Give the gift of supporting sustainable energy in Ontario with an OSEA membership or donation. Get great deals on OSEA webinars and events with 5-session packages or get great reads like Tom Rand's Kick the Fossil Fuel Habit, Humanizing the Economy by John Restakis, Aperio's Social Sector Entrepreneurship and Innovation guidebook, and Atomic Accomplice by Paul McKay.

The provincial finances are in grave shape. Higher health care and education costs are looming. There are precious few public dollars to spare. This is the worst time to commit half of Ontario’s future generation to nuclear, and take on decades more of public debt. Since we have surplus power and other base-load supply options, this is the time for all MPPs to pause, reflect, and insist that nuclear pay its own way – without another cent in public subsidies. Read our full report and get the facts.

Ontario’s first 100% union-owned wind energy project breaks ground November 29, 2011, led by the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) union. Located at their Family Education Centre in Port Elgin, the single 500 kW wind turbine will generate 1600 MWh of renewable energy annually for the Ontario grid, powering the equivalent of 130 homes. “We congratulate the CAW for their vision and leadership in bringing the project to fruition,” says Martin Ince, President of M. K. Ince and Associates (MKI). MKI has provided the CAW with consulting services in the planning and implementation of the project.

The 2011 Community Power Awards were presented on Monday November 14th during the Green Connection banquet and awards ceremony. The award winners are individuals who have made significant contributions to the Community Power movement in Ontario and globally. The award presentation followed a keynote speech by Chris Bentley, Ontario's Minister of Energy. Awards were handed out in the following categories: Community Power Leader, International Community Power Leader, Urban Community Power Leader, Aboriginal Community Power Leader, Rural Community Power Leader.

Ontario's Green Energy and Green Economy Act has by almost any measure of performance - applications, investment, jobs, industrial development - been a great success, but so far, few feed in tariff contracts are in commercial operation. What was right and what has gone wrong?  OSEA board member Marion Fraser answers this question in her paper Getting it Right – Not Quite – Ontario’s Green Energy Act. Fraser explores the gap between policy and implementation with an examination of how politics frustrates policy; how public sector organizations can impair public policy and how self-interest trumps the greater good.

How will the Feed-in-Tariff review shape Green Energy 2.0 in Ontario?
Join the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association for its third annual conference to hear about and discuss the FIT review, Green Energy Ontario 2.0, and practical training on how to drive community-led and community-commercial project partnerships. While attending the conference be sure to tour our Power Networking Centre trade show, held in partnership with the Association of Power Producers of Ontario.

Join some of the city’s most interesting entrepreneurs, sustainable energy champions and Ontario’s top chefs at the Steam Whistle Brewery as we throw the sector’s best and most exclusive social event, the Green Connection on Monday, November 14th. Enjoy mouth watering canapés and hors d'oeuvres and unlimited tastings of an intriguing variety of exclusively Ontario beer, wine, meade, cider, port, juices and smoothies as we celebrate the launch of OSEA’s third annual Community Power Conference.

Wind development and community can work together. With the smart planning and open communications, wind development in rural Ontario can be a win-win. Since June, Friends of Wind Ontario has organized a series of events across southern Ontario. Many people have attended to hear speakers from the science, business, utility, legal and government sector, local community members and farmers. These events have been organized to give communities the chance to learn about the facts and benefits about renewable energy and wind development.

From crowds in front of Queens Park to quiet discussion of the value of solar panels at Canclone's, the solar powered printers, Ontarians showed their commitment to green energy on Saturday September 24th at OSEA's Green Energy Field Day. The day featured businesses, organizations, farms and community centers across the province, which opened their doors and showcased their green energy projects to interested members of the community. Events were held in 21 cities across Ontario.

(Sept. 15, 2011, Toronto, ON) Responding to the growing discussion about the future of green energy in Ontario, the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association (OSEA) today unveiled a pair of television advertisements profiling the strengths and benefits of an Ontario-made green energy economy. Kristopher Stevens, OSEA's Executive Director observed, "The ads were produced in response to calls from our membership. They are proud of the positive aspects of the green energy economy in Ontario."

A new opportunity to invest in solar in Ontario was announced today with the province-wide release of SolarShare Community Solar Bonds, $1000 bonds that earn 5% annual returns over a 5-year term. Developed by TREC Renewable Energy Co-operative, the SolarShare Co-operative is now offering bonds that are invested in a portfolio consisting entirely of solar electric power projects across the province, projects that are already constructed, producing power and generating stable long-term revenues under 20-year Ontario Feed-in-Tariff contracts.

On Thursday, 4th August, Peter Tabuns, Energy Critic, New Democratic Party of Ontario, gave a simple and strong statement on the Green Energy Act and renewable energy. Interviewed by Kristopher Stevens, Executive Director Ontario Sustainable Energy Association, Tabuns laid out the NDP energy platform for the upcoming election. As Tabuns explained the platform rests on two main thrusts of conservation and a balanced approach to energy supply. His message was clear: “We need affordable energy now through efficiency and conservation - and no more games. We need jobs and affordable power tomorrow which means investing in renewable energy today.”

On Tuesday, 9th August, Mike Schreiner, Party Leader, Green Party of Ontario, laid out an approach to energy for Ontario that places emphasis on efficiency, conservation and the involvement of local communities. Interviewed by OSEA’s executive director Kristopher Stevens, Schreiner fielded a host of questions on where his party stands on renewable energy in the face of the coming election. Schreiner highlighted that “the Green Party want people in communities to lead the way. Develop in ways that benefit your community. Capture the benefits of clean green power in community and hybrid projects.”

Jutta Splettstoesser, President, launched the Friends of Wind Ontario information meeting series at the Legion in Clinton, Ontario on Tuesday, July 26. The Friends of Wind are organizing the community meetings to provide information about wind power generation and engage communities in supporting wind power generation.

The Friends of Wind next public meeting is planned for Chatham on August 18 at 7:00 PM (see event for details). The speakers will be Dr. W. David Colby, John Kourtoff, Rudy Zubler and Jutta Splettstoesser.

OSEA's executive director Kris Stevens interviewed Ontario's energy minister Brad Duguid Tuesday to get a take on his party's plans for the future of renewable energy and conservation post election. “We’re just coming out of this economic recovery,” Brad Duguid said. “Now’s the time to keep working hard, to keep creating those jobs, not back away.”

Read the full interview summary by OSEA's Neil Fairhead here.

A recent poll, conducted by Oraclepoll Research Limited and commissioned by OSEA, indicates over 7 of 10 Ontarians support green energy initiatives. Province wide support levels were exceptionally high with more than half of the respondents indicating they “strongly agreed” with Ontario’s green energy initiatives. Pollster Dr. Paul Seccaspina noted that, “Despite non-scientific and anecdotal opinions with respect to the public’s views on green energy, our polling indicates strong support across all regions, party affiliations and demographic groups in Ontario.”

July 6th marked the ribbon-cutting of the largest solar installation project in the Greater Toronto Area - and it’s community-owned! The SolarShare WaterView Project features a 438 kW system covering 2.5 acres of the rooftop of the Daimler Buses North America Ltd. manufacturing facility near Lake Ontario in Mississauga. VIP guests Ontario Minister of Labour Charles Sousa and Mississauga Mayor Hazel McCallion cut the ceremonial ribbon on the project to the applause of onlookers and supporters.

The sun was shining and the wind was blowing July 4th to provide the perfect backdrop for Ontario energy minister Brad Duguid to announce 25 new large-scale renewable energy projects will soon be under way. Duguid and Huron-Bruce MPP Carol Mitchell, surrounded by Hydro One workers and media, made the announcement under the Bruce to Milton corridor towers, just south of Bruce County Road 20 and Sideroad 15 in the Municipality of Kincardine. The contracts were awarded through Ontario's Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program and will provide almost 1,046 megawatts of electricity to the provincial grid.

M'Chigeeng launches wind farm, first for an Ontario First Nation.
On Tuesday, 21st June 2011, construction started for the Mother Earth Renewable Energy (M.E.R.E.) wind project wholly owned by M'Chigeeng, a first in the First Nations. By next spring two 2MW wind turbines turbines will be in place and ready to deliver enough electricity for a thousand homes. The M.E.R.E. project demonstrates just what can be accomplished with a vision, perseverance and a commitment to sharing the benefits of renewable energy within the community.

Ralph and Jutta Splettstoesser are farmers. Swine flu meant that they lost money raising pigs and had to find additional ways of earning their family's living. They learnt their land could harvest the sun twice: for food in fields; for electricity on roofs. Now they plan to harvest the wind while still farming the land underneath. Sun and wind will supply energy for their community, while adding to their income and so supporting their local suppliers, e.g. of farm equipment.

A major exhibition is being produced that has photographers zooming in on energy with a focus on renewables. Produced by Photosensitive, a not-for-profit collective of professional photographers, in partnership with OSEA, the exhibition will include black and white shots taken by 100 of Canada's best photographers. The aim is to raise awareness of renewable energy initiatives in wind, solar, geothermal, biogas, biofuels and hydro power as well as highlighting other related issues such as energy consumption and conservation.

 The Ontario Sustainable Energy Association is turning up the green energy wattage with the announcement of a video contest, real time online map showcasing green energy supporters, conservation and renewable energy projects and a province wide Green Energy Field Day, all part of the WattsNEXT? contest. WattsNEXT? offers the chance to win exciting prizes (including a complete 10 kilowatt solar system by AS Solar and cash bursaries), while showcasing the power of sustainable energy across Ontario.

A new report released today corrects the misinformation being promoted by anti-wind activists around Ontario. Blowing Smoke: Correcting Anti-Wind Myths in Ontario finds that study after study around the world has concluded that there is no scientific basis for claims about health impacts from wind power projects, and that wind power is both technically viable and has economic and environmental benefits for Ontario. The "report aims to introduce some real facts into the debate so that communities can make well informed decisions about wind projects” says Adam Scott, Green Energy Program Manager, Environmental Defence.

The Fukushima tragedy has highlighted the urgent need to increase wind power and other renewable energy sources to transform the global energy system. In light of such prospects, Community Power is increasingly being viewed as an essential framework for developing such decentralized forms of energy. A working group working group created by the World Wind Energy Association developed a definition of Community Power to give clear guidance to policymakers as well as to others involved in renewable energy and the general public.

The day after United Nations Environmental Program executive director Achim Steiner urged Ontario to stick with it's green energy program, Ontario’s Progressive Conservative leader Tim Hudak stated that if elected he will scrap North America's best renewable energy policy and send us backpeddling to the dark ages of dirty, dangerous electricity. Needless to say it is disappointing to hear Mr. Hudak position himself as the opponent of investors, manufacturers, homeowners, farmers and communities who are investing in Ontario's future. The Green Energy Act is our path to a cleaner, more prosperous province. We need your help.

OSEA member, Wind Simplicity, an Ontario-based producer of small wind mills has just been recognized for its innovative use of recycled materials. Determined to design the world’s greenest wind turbine, Alfred Mathieu PhD and Sharolyn Vettese, the father and daughter who invented the Windancer horizontal axis wind turbine, chose to make the blades out of aluminum, a metal with a cradle-to-cradle lifecycle, which can be recycled over and over without losing its properties. That decision paid off for the company by earning it its sixth award.

Robert Hellier, Vice-Chair and Director on OSEA's board, has just announced he will be taking a new position as manager for the Centre for Urban Energy (CUE) at Ryerson University, starting May 2nd. The CUE is an initiative by Ryerson's Faculty of Engineering & Architectural Sciences (FEAS). The CUE will essentially be a major research asset of these organisations, tackling the engineering and interdisciplinary issues that need to be addressed in the province's transition to a low carbon, distributed energy system.

One of the Ontario Energy Board's new objects, as consequence of the passage of the Green Energy and Green Economy Act, 2009 (GEA), is to facilitate the implementation of the smart grid in Ontario. While a broad definition of the smart grid is provided in the GEA, the Minister has now issued, on November 23, 2010 a detailed Directive to the Board on this matter. The Directive requires the Board to provide guidance to licensed electricity transmitters and distributors and other regulated entities that propose to undertake smart grid activities.

Misinformation spread in the media blaming renewable energy for recent rises in electricity costs was corrected by Ontario's environmental commissioner recently on TVO's current affairs program, The Agenda. Also on the program defending renewable energy and the Green Energy Act was Deb Doncaster, executive director of the Community Power Fund. She argues for a renewable energy system that provides jobs, reduces the ill effects of burning fossil fuels on health and that is good for the environment. For those who missed the show, it is well worth watching. Read the full story to watch it online.

This past November the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association hosted two exciting days focused on how communities across Ontario can become part of the cutting edge of the new green economy.  We are excited to provide everyone full access to all of the video footage thanks to the generous donations of individuals from all four political parties who believe that the Green Energy and Green Economy Act serves all Ontarians. For full details regarding the Community Power conference and to access the video recordings click here.

OSEA has been helping communities develop sustainable energy projects for over a decade. Born out of the pioneering effort to erect the now iconic windmill at Exhibition Place in Toronto, OSEA was formed to pass on the lessons that had been learned and to break down systemic barriers preventing a cleaner more sustainable community-centric distributed energy system. OSEA hosts regular webinars, workshops and an annual conference to help build capacity in the sector and has established the Community Power Services Group to assist communities around the province.

The Ontario Divisional Court today rejected claims that the government failed to heed the ‘precautionary principle' in enacting 550 metre setbacks for terrestrial windmills. The court ruled that the government conducted full public consultation and did actively consider science based evidence such as World Health Organization reports and analysis of acoustic engineering experts. "Today's ruling is a clear message that Ontario is taking a measured approach to windmill siting, while phasing out coal pollution" said Dr. Rick Smith, Executive Director of Environmental Defence.

OSEA has joined forces with Environmental Defence, Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, Sierra Club Ontario and CPAWS Wildlands League to launch a new initiative designed to hit back at the confusing anti-environmental rhetoric coming from Ontario's elected officials. ComeClean.ca challenges Ontario's elected officials to come clean and give clear answers about where they stand on clean energy jobs, burning dirty coal, clean water and pesticides and the Greenbelt.

Tell our elected officials to come clean on what matters to you.
Sign the petition

There are bullies on the playground of Ontario's energy sector and, unfortunately, the teacher is even more terrified of their rhetoric than the kids are. On Friday (Feb 11) two announcements were released. The first announced a freeze on offshore wind development, the second addressed hundreds of small microFIT projects, telling them that there was no capacity on the transmission lines for their power, and no timeline for when there will be capacity. These two decisions by the government are a wake up call for all of us who support a cleaner and more prosperous future for Ontario!

Cited for the leading role he played in the campaign for a Green Energy Act and his continuous contribution to community power, Kristopher Stevens, OSEA’s executive director, has been selected as a finalist for the Excellence in Renewable Energy Award. Presented by the publishers Renewable Energy World, the award is given to the top North American renewable energy leaders, innovations and projects of the year. Winners will be announced March 8th at the Renewable Energy World Conference and Expo in Tampa, Florida.

Check out our great green holiday gift ideas for the sustainable energy champion on your list. Get great deals on fair-trade artisanal chocolate, books, and conference session recordings from Community Power 2010.

We are proud to announce that Tides Canada has included OSEA in their Top 10 list of the most innovative and forward-thinking initiatives of 2010. OSEA was commended for championing Community Power, for being a leader in the development of a green energy economy in Ontario, and for our role in forming the Green Energy and Green Economy Act. Thank you to OSEA's members and supporters who are transforming Ontario one Ontarian, community and commercial partner at a time. Congratulations as well to the nine other amazing and inspiring organizations in the Top 10 for 2010. We are all the solution!

Seven new directors were welcomed onto OSEA’s board during the 2010 annual general meeting held on November 14th. The OSEA team is excited about the wealth of experience the new directors bring to our organization. Thank you to all of the candidates who ran for the board and to our members for taking the time to participate in the election and AGM. To learn about the new and ongoing Directors please click here.

The McGuinty government announced Ontario’s 20-year energy plan today titled Building Our Clean Energy Future. The plan will increase Ontario’s power supply coming from clean renewable sources by up to 13 per cent by 2018. Today wind, solar and bio-energy deliver three per cent of Ontario’s energy. The plan outlines a clean energy revolution that is creating thousands of new, good jobs in Ontario and cleaning up the air we breathe. Download OSEA’s consultation submissions and the government documents here.

OSEA is pleased to present seven candidates who have been nominated to sit on OSEA’s board of directors starting on November 14, 2010. To help OSEA members make an informed vote, we interviewed each candidate on their reasons for becoming a director. Read their answers and find out more information on how to vote here. Online voting is open from October 29 - November 12. The new board of directors will be announced at our Annual General Meeting on November 14th in Toronto.

Community and commercial sustainable energy activists and proponents suffered a great loss Thursday October 14th with the death of Dr. Hermann Scheer. As an economist, author, German parliamentarian and a citizen of the world he championed feed-in tariffs as a mechanism to address climate change, democratize the energy sector and drive economic development. Scheer authored numerous books and was a tireless advocate. He inspired and urged millions of us around the world to stop waiting for someone else to fix things and take action ourselves.

OSEA and it's partners recently presented a webinar on the "Building Capacity through a Multi-Skilling Model" initiative. The webinar is designed to accomplish the following objectives: 1) to solicit input into the goals and objective of the initiative, 2) to build an awareness and understanding around the labour challenges confronting the electrical and renewable energy sector in the future and 3) to reflect on the experiences of other jurisdictions who are engaged in similar undertakings. If you were unable to attend, the webinar is now available online.

OSEA has been asked to participate in a consultation session with the Ontario Ministry of Energy. They are giving us an opportunity to bring forward concerns and feedback as they update Ontario's Long Term Energy Plan. As a member of OSEA we want to hear what you think of the plan, so that we can represent you at our meeting. Fill out the survey to bring your concerns forward to the ministry. OSEA continues to work on behalf of our members. Thank you for your consistent support!

OSEA is accepting nominations for board representatives from the following membership categories:

• Supporter (1 position open)
• Champion (2 positions open)
• Enabler (2 positions open)

If you are a member of OSEA and would like to nominate a candidate to join the board, please fill out our online nomination form here. We will be accepting nominations until October 21, 2010.

The Ontario Power Authority has formally announced how it will implement the recent changes to the microFIT Program which created a new pricing for new ground mount microFIT projects under 10 kW in size. In related microFIT news OSEA has been appointed as a member of the newly established OPA Advisory Committee to review issues and recommendations regarding the MicroFIT program.  We are seeking input from our members regarding several issues of primary concern to the Community Power sector. These include rules regarding aggregators, determining eligible participants for the MicroFIT and modifying the definition for rooftop facility and existing buildings. For details on how you can provide input click here.

In several recent articles in the National Post the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association and the Green Energy and Green Economy Act have come under fire by opponents of Community Power, sustainable energy and climate change. Please click here to read OSEA's Executive Directors response published Saturday September 4, 2010 and lend your support. We are all part of the solution and we need to share our stories about how each of us and our neighbours are contributing to a greener more sustainable and prosperous Ontario through conservation and renewables.

OSEA's new proposed bylaws have been posted for review by the membership in preparation for the online vote that will occur between September 1st and the 8th.  At the 2009 annual general meeting the Board of Directors were  directed by the previous Board and membership to make improvements to the by-laws to increase clarity regarding governance, director responsibilities and accountability, the process of election and voting and the membership structure.  The proposed by-laws have been passed by the Board of Directors and now require the ratification of the membership.  To learn more click here.

Videos interviews from the office warming party. Members and friends share updates and talk about their involvement with OSEA.

You spoke out about the proposed changes to the microFIT program and the Ontario Power Authority has listened. In a press release issued August 13th, 2010, the OPA has addressed a number of issues with the pricing and transparency of the microFIT program. A number of changes are being enacted to deal with the backlog of microFIT projects. Existing ground-mounted solar project applications submitted before July 2nd, 2010 have been granted the original price of 80.2 cents per kilowatt-hour whether or not they have received a contract or conditional offer. For applications submitted after July 2nd, effective immediately, a new price category has been set to 64.2 cents per kilowatt-hour.

OSEA is asking its members to demand transparency within the Ontario Power Authority's review process regarding the microFIT and FIT programs. The ad hoc and untransparent methodology used to reach the proposed change to the established price for ground mounted solar threatens the stability of the entire program. Contact your MPP today to demand action on this issue. Download a template letter and voice your concern now.

Click here if you have a microFIT project and are affected by the freezing of ground mounted applications and the proposed price change.

Click here if you do not own a project but are concerned with the stability of Ontario's renewable energy industry.

The Ontario Sustainable Energy Association's new office was charged with the positive energy of more than 200 Community Power supporters and partners for the associations office warming this past Wednesday.  OSEA member Chocosol, a lateral trader of cacao beans and champion of local food served up tasty cool chocolate beverages, a range of artisan chocolates and a one of a kind treat of jaguar albino chocolate.  Steam Whistle Brewery also contributed to the mood with their fantastic Pilsner, heralded to not just be tasty but incredibly green in its production and packaging.

View video interviews from the party
Members and friends share updates and talk about their involvement with OSEA.

OSEA is pleased to announce that our new membership structure has been finalized and is currently in place! We now offer four membership categories that are based on supporting OSEA's values, mission and vision and offer a variety of benefits that include discounts on services and products, invitation to member update webinars, and recognition in OSEA's extensive network of members and affiliates. Past and current members who renew before July 1st will also receive 15% off their membership fees this year. The membership application can be downloaded here. Contact Sonya at 416-977-4441 extension 2 for further information.

A major exhibition is being mounted that will have photographers focus their lenses on energy - and specifically renewable energy, which may require OSEA members to smile for the cameras. The show is being produced by PhotoSensitive in partnership with OSEA. PhotoSensitive is a not-for-profit collective of professional photographers, which has been using the power of the picture to bring about social change for 20 years. The exhibition will include a hundred black and white photos taken by some of Canada's best photographers. The aim is to raise awareness of renewable energy initiatives such as those being developed by OSEA members, as well as highlight other related issues such as energy consumption and conservation.

Communities in Ontario gained an important tool to enable their own renewable energy projects with the announcement of the Community Energy Partnerships Program. The CEPP will finance up to 90 per cent of eligible development costs to a maximum of $200,000 for community power projects between 10 kilowatts and 10 megawatts. Co-ops, charities, not-for-profits and individual Ontarians such as farmers developing projects are eligible for the fund. "Financial barriers are a significant impediment to communities developing their own green power projects" attests CEPP program director Laurie Arron. "The CEPP will provide vital seed capital" to encourage the development of community power. An introductory webinar on May 19th at 2:00 p.m. EST will discuss applying for CEPP funding.

First Nation and Métis people, businesses and communities will be able to access up to $500,000 in funds for community based renewable energy projects.  The Aboriginal Energy Partnership Program was announced by the Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Brad Duguid, at the Aboriginal Energy Forum on April 27th. "Ontario's Green Energy Act is opening up opportunities for First Nation and Métis people, businesses and communities to participate in the transformation of our energy sector," said Minister Duguid. "Through this new partnership program, we are creating the conditions necessary for success by providing concrete support to build capacity in Aboriginal communities." Applications will be accepted beginning April 28, 2010.

Contracts for green electricity awarded to community groups and First Nations show clearly that the people of Ontario support renewable energy. While opposition to wind turbines, bio-digesters and solar farms make the headlines, communities are forging ahead with projects that will produce hundreds of megawatts of power.  In the latest procurement of renewable energy by the Ontario Power Authority, contracts under the province's feed-in tariff program have been awarded to 36 community and Aboriginal groups. Members of OSEA received contracts including M'Chigeeng First Nations and Windfall Ecology Centre, both involved in wind farm projects under development.

OSEA since inception has been working to ensure Ontario's power system becomes more inclusive for locally-owned, community power generators. Continuing our ongoing efforts to monitor and address policy and regulatory issues on behalf of our membership, we are excited to announce a number of recent successes and to share a recent policy letter submitted to the new Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, the Hon. Brad Duguid. Recent policy changes bring good news for campuses, municipal properties and other community power groups seeking multiple FIT projects on one property as well as encouraging community ownership with set back exemptions for landowners participating in community power projects.

Several OSEA members are the first medium-size power generators to be awarded contracts under the provincial feed-in tariff program. They are among 510 new green energy projects announced on March 10 by the Ontario Power Authority at a press conference held at a Loblaw store in Toronto. Loblaw has obtained FIT contracts to install solar panels on over 100 of its stores throughout the province. Everybody is participating, from everywhere in Ontario, from farmers, schools and hospitals to large scale retail and commercial operations," said Brad Duguid, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure. Most of the 500 projects announced are solar, although several are for wind, hydro and biogas

OSEA is excited to announce two new low-interest financing choices that support the Community Power sector. Our two newest members, the Italian Canadian Savings and Credit Union and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, are offering special financing that can assist with the development of sustainable energy projects. We are pleased to welcome both the Italian Canadian Savings and Credit Union and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation on board, and we look forward to working together to further the growth of the sector. To find out more about these programs click here.

Farm Credit Canada has announced a new FCC Energy Loan to aide farmers and agribusinesses move towards producing their own green energy. Beginning March 1st, Canadian farmers and agribusiness owners interested in producing their own renewable energy will have a new federal financing option to do so. The loan will help farmers purchase and install on-farm energy sources like biogas, geo-thermal, wind or solar power. With interest in renewables amongst the agricultural sector increasing across the country, Agriculture minister Gerry Ritz affirmed that, "this initiative is good for the environment and it's good for the bottom line on farms across Canada."

Ontario's controversial new green energy deal with Samsung was put on the hotseat in a recent episode of TVO's The Agenda. OSEA's Kristopher Stevens took part in the panel that also included Randall Denley (Ottawa Citizen) Tom Rand (MaRS) and Norm Rubin (Energy Probe). Panelists evaluated whether the deal with Samsung will hurt domestic green energy suppliers, raise electricity prices for consumers, and create jobs. Is Ontario's deal with Samsung good for the province? Watch the complete program on our website and decide for yourself.

With the passage of the province’s new Green Energy Act, opportunities abound for everyone, from individuals to charities to municipalities, to generate both power and a profit, all the while protecting the planet. To explore these opportunities and develop a strategy for taking advantage of them, Newmarket – Tay Power has sought the help of the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association, which has for more than a decade assisted farmers, First Nations, religious organizations, homeowners and energy co-operatives develop clean, green energy projects.

Seven hundred Ontarians will be celebrating a green holiday season after being the first to receive offers to generate renewable electricity under the province’s new feed-in tariff program. The new microFIT program encourages the development of small-scale renewable energy from a diverse range of producers, including homeowners, schools, farmers and small businesses.

“The people of the province have long indicated that they are willing, even eager, to do something to address climate change. The OPA's microFIT program gives them that opportunity and they are taking it. Local power production means more personal control and profits," said Kristopher Stevens in a press statement released by the Ontario Power Authority.

Sounds and vibrations emitted from wind turbines do not adversely affect human health, a prestigious, international panel of experts has concluded. The panel, which included professionals in the fields of medicine, audiology, acoustics, the environment and public health from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and Denmark, was jointly established by the American Wind Energy Association and the Canadian Wind Energy Association to conduct a review of all current, peer-reviewed, scientific literature available on the perceived health effects of wind turbines.

• Full study (PDF document)
  
• Executive Summary (PDF document)

The World Wind Energy Association (WWEA), in association with the Ontario Sustainable Energy Association (OSEA) and the St. Lawrence College, acknowledges and welcomes the presence of those 800 participants attending this Conference from wind and associated renewable energy technologies and especially from many community power organisations. The interests include all aspects of sustainable wind, solar, hydro, bioenergy and geothermal technology development, design, manufacturing, operation and implementation.