Four brand new solar photovoltaic systems, also known as solar electric, are soaking up the spring sunshine and lowering energy costs for the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) on Vancouver Island, BC. The installations are part of a rural areas implementation plan for the Comox Valley sustainability strategy, and were fully paid for by the UBCM’s Gas Tax Agreement, which, through the Community Works Fund, provides local governments and other eligible recipients with financial support for a variety of capital and planning projects.

The journey to carbon zero has been a productive one for Sandy McPherson and Alan Philip. The couple began investing in a more sustainable home after moving from the Saanich Peninsula to Duncan, BC, a few years ago. As they settled in, they began looking at a variety of renewable energy options before deciding on solar photovoltaic, also known as solar PV, which converts sunlight into electricity to offset electrical consumption.