QUEST Canada launches signature program, Net-Zero Communities Accelerator

February 15, 2023–Today, QUEST Canada announces the launch of its signature program, the Net-Zero Communities Accelerator (NCA), a program designed to equip participating communities across Canada with the knowledge necessary to develop and continuously implement community energy and emissions plans (CEEPs). The program leverages proven tools and services modeled and tested during QUEST Canada’s New Brunswick Smart Energy Communities Accelerator (NB SECA) Pilot Program, which included 14 participating communities, including one First Nation and five francophone communities.

“We’re very excited to announce the launch of the Net-Zero Communities Accelerator, a program that aims to empower Canadian communities on their pathway to net-zero,” said Ericka Wicks, Managing Director of QUEST Canada. “What makes the NCA program distinctive is its focus on building the necessary foundations that ensure CEEPs actually get implemented over the short and long-term, in addition to ensuring all relevant stakeholders are included throughout the process. The program will introduce communities to new ways of thinking, collaborating and working, providing the support necessary to help communities achieve their energy use and emissions reduction goals.” 

It’s the first program of its kind in Canada, with a national scope and a suite of resources and services that are inclusive and adaptable to communities of all sizes, with varying needs and unique contexts. 

“A clean environment is key to the future of Canada’s economy. That is why the Government of Canada is proud to support organizations like QUEST Canada that are leading the way on energy efficiency,” said the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). “QUEST [Canada]’s new NCA program will help participating communities develop and implement impactful community energy and emissions plans that drive positive economic, social, and environmental outcomes.”

ACOA invested $494,490 in the Smart Energy Community Accelerator program [also referred to as the Net-Zero Communities Accelerator]. The NCA Program is also supported by Cenovus, New Brunswick Environmental Trust Fund, Suncor Energy Foundation, Énergie NB Power, Stantec, McConnell Family Foundation, and Liberty Utilities.  

To learn more about the NCA Program and how it aims to assist Canada in reaching its 2030 and 2050 emissions reduction targets, visit the NCA Program webpage: www.questcanada.org/NCA 

–30–

About QUEST Canada
QUEST Canada is a national non-profit that supports communities in Canada on their pathway to net-zero. Since 2007, we’ve been facilitating connections, empowering community champions and influencing decision-makers to implement efficient and integrated energy systems that best meet community needs and maximize local opportunities. We develop tools and resources, convene stakeholders and rights holders and advise decision-makers — all with the goal of encouraging and enabling communities to contribute to Canada’s net-zero goals.

To set up an interview, please contact: Melissa Schweyer Senior Lead, Communications, QUEST Canada t: 866-494-2770 ext. 704 e: [email protected]

Quotes