What's New in Dawson Creek

There’s a solar revolution happening in BC as local governments around the province are passing resolutions to sign on to the new Solar Hot Water Regulation bylaw.

The regulation requires all new single family homes (where applicable) to be built to accommodate future installation of a solar hot water system for water heating. Communities signed on so far are:

Join the City of Dawson Creek at City Hall Grounds on May 28, 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, and take a tour of the Solar Hot Water Heating System installed at City Hall and the Fire Hall. Also Tour a vacation trailer that has solar installed.

Dawson Creek became a Solar Community because of their progressive approaches to implementing solar technologies, and they continue to step over perceived regulatory barriers by looking to the experience of Europe. Currently, the city is setting precedents with their submission of a bylaw request for all new homes to be built solar ready, as well as requiring no additional plumbing permits for solar hot water installs on new homes.

From solar panels on community buildings to street lights (yes, street lights!) Dawson Creek has been a leader, promoter and implementer of solar hot water for several years.

“The area has over 1100 solar hours per year, making it one of the best sites in Canada for solar potential,” says Emanuel Machado, Director of Corporate Planning and Sustainable Community Development. He says the Community's reliance on natural gas, for heating space and water heating, and the associated emissions (GHGs), make solar a very viable option. Not to mention the potential there is to reduce energy costs and emissions.