This document provides a strategic approach and direction for the Town of Devon to reach environmentally sustainable goals in an economically feasible manner. Green Devon lays out short-term and long-term goals, along with objectives, and recommended actions for six priority areas. Due to changes in technology, programs, and other elements, this document is subject to change and shall be amended as needed and reviewed by Council annually.
See the Town of Devon Green Strategy here
In 2016, the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators CAMA) recognized the environmental excellence demonstrated by Devon with its solar program by awarding the Town with the 2016 National Municipal Environmental Award.
Devon’s solar program began in 2015 with solar lights installed in the dog park, boat launch and parking area of Voyageur Park. Soon after, the town installed solar lights for pedestrian crosswalks. A big part of the program was the installation of 393 solar panels on the roof of the Devon Community Centre.
The efforts reduce the Town’s environmental footprint and the amount of public funds spent on electricity for municipal facilities.
In 2016, FortisAlberta converted a total of 590 existing High Pressure Sodium (HPS) streetlights to LED technology. Through these conversions, the town will save approximately 221,700 kWh/year, which is equivalent to taking 30 cars off the road; operating 28 homes; or planting 6,500 trees per year.
Devon Town Council set an ambitious goal to become the first Net-Zero municipality in Canada. In general terms, this means the amount of energy used within the municipality would be offset by the amount of energy produced. This means using innovative planning, technology and best practices to conserve energy and increasing the supply of renewable energy generated in Devon. Sustainable planning plays a key role in reaching this long-term goal.
Devon Town Council made a resolution to join the Partners for Climate Protection on April 10, 2017. The program involves a framework of Milestones to be completed that will aid Devon in reaching their sustainability goals. Members also benefit from opportunities to receive funding support through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). Regional Partners for Climate Protection members include the City of Edmonton, the City of Leduc, the City of Spruce Grove and the Town of Stony Plain.
The inventory helps a municipality track which sectors use the most energy and emit the most GHG emissions, while indicating where to focus and prioritize reduction efforts. An inventory also helps municipalities track where money is being spent on energy, potentially revealing cost savings opportunities. Additionally, the inventory provides a starting point from which progress can be measured, helping track the effectiveness of a GHG emission and energy efficiency plan. The quantification of GHG emissions, along with the demonstrated commitment and planning towards GHG reductions can also allow a municipality access to provincial and federal funding opportunities.
See the full report here