What is a Regional Energy Coach (REC)?
The REC program supports affordable housing providers across Canada, including municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and housing cooperatives, in adopting energy efficiency and sustainability measures in their housing units.
It offers free expert coaching for those engaged in or planning energy-efficient retrofits or new constructions of affordable housing.
Expert coaching on:
- Technical Support
- Energy Efficiency Planning
- Funding Guidance
- including navigating the Federation of Canadian Municipalities‘ (FCM) Sustainable Affordable Housing Program
- Stackable funding
- Alternative funding strategies
Tailored Guidance
RECs offer specialized support, from conducting energy walk through assessments, support with funding applications, to technical assistance and support working with consultants.
Strategic Planning
RECs can help housing providers to identify retrofit opportunities, evaluate project feasibility, and understand the available technologies and funding mechanisms.
Hands-on Coaching
RECs work closely with housing providers to give them the knowledge and tools they need to succeed.
Indigenous and Northern
Communities
Indigenous and Northern Affordable Housing Providers are also eligible to utilize REC services; the coach can offer the same technical advice and help the communities explore how they could access the Sustainable Affordable Housing Program or other funding programs.
The ICE REC can also connect communities and housing providers with capacity development programs, partners and resources through ICE Programs like Bringing it Home.
Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) is the host for the REC that supports Indigenous and Northern Communities with guidance and technical assistance for energy efficiency projects in any stage.
RECs offer support to community housing providers to increase their knowledge of sustainable housing, help them apply for grants and save money on their energy bills!
Contact Kayla Fayant: kfayant@indigenouscleanenergy.com
Regional Energy Coaches offer a range of services, including:
- Walkthrough energy assessments
- Planning for energy efficiency within a retrofit or new build project
- Support identifying energy saving opportunities
- Technical advice on energy-saving technologies and solutions
- Assistance with identifying funding opportunities and support with funding applications for energy efficiency projects
The program supports projects that enhance energy efficiency, including:
- Minor to deep energy retrofits
- Installation of renewable energy systems
- Upgrades to heating and cooling systems
- Insulation and weatherization improvements
- Net zero or net zero ready new builds
RECs assist housing providers in identifying and applying for funding opportunities, including grants, loans and other incentives from various sources of funding including government agencies, utility companies, and others. Coaches also help providers understand how to effectively stack these funds to maximize their project’s financial feasibility.
Why?
By completing an energy-efficient project, housing providers will benefit in many tangible ways:
- Lower energy costs: Expect a significant reduction in energy expenses
- Improved comfort and health: Enhanced living conditions lead to happier, healthier residents
- Sustainability: Your housing units will be more sustainable and environmentally friendly
- Environmental impact: Successful projects contribute to larger environmental goals, like lowering greenhouse gas emissions
- Sustained motivation: The REC’s support keeps your team motivated throughout the planning stages
- Capacity building: Working with a REC boosts your organization’s understanding and skills in energy efficiency, ensuring you’re better equipped for future projects
Partners: