Switching to clean energy is one of the most impactful ways to take climate action. It’s the solution we’re all searching for, but it’s not the standard—yet. For many, the idea of clean energy is clouded by misconceptions: “It’s too expensive, too hard, and too late.” Meanwhile, the urgency of climate change grows by the day.
At CCAT we are working to change this narrative, and we're excited to share a major breakthrough in our advocacy efforts.
Most people believe in the potential of clean energy - solar panels, heat pumps and more - are often now becoming common topics of discussion. However, people aren't yet taking advantage of clean energy. Why is that?
People believe the transition to clean energy will be a massively painful process. When the reality is, the transition is already happening, and you didn't feel a thing! Clean energy benefits our community and reduces the pollution around us. We know that we all take pride in this beautiful region we live in, and that we can be a leader in clean energy. We also know if people see their own friends and neighbours as part of the solution, they're more likely to support the clean energy transition in our community.
A step in this transition came in October 2024, when our Collingwood Council voted unanimously in favour of Councillor Jeffery’s motion for the Town to proceed with an application for Community Efficiency Financing (CEF) funding for Phase 1! This funding supports planning, implementing, and scaling up home-energy upgrade programs for residential energy projects—a crucial step towards making clean energy accessible and affordable for our community.
This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the collective effort of many dedicated individuals. Several councillors championed the motion, while our climate specialist, Nicole Yardy, provided invaluable expertise. A heartfelt thank you to our board member, Jamey Hubbs, for presenting our deputation, and to Jim Ransom, a CCAT volunteer, for preparing detailed information and answering key questions.
A special shoutout goes to our Director of Programs, Bryan Vermander, and the CCAT Greening Home Energy Committee for their tireless work in moving this initiative forward.
This success exemplifies the kind of impactful advocacy your support makes possible. We are excited to continue to provide updates on this work; knowing that together, we can make clean energy the standard. Let’s take action—for today, and for the next generations future.
Stay tuned for more on our work to accelerate our communities transition to clean energy in 2025!
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