Here at CED Co-op we’re big fans of co-operation – it’s right there in our name! We’re members of a number of organizations supporting renewable energy, community power, and the co-operative spirit. Together, members in groups like these lift each other up, support best practices, and advocate for change to make our world a better place.
Today we’re profiling a few of the organizations that we are members of. This way you can see the “behind the scenes” work that goes into supporting and organizing movements.
Federation of Community Power Co-operatives (FCPC)
FCPC supports renewable energy co-ops that are developing community-owned projects. This group brings together organizations like ours, growing the community power community. Together we share best practices, support each other, and increase renewable energy co-ops operating at the highest standards. In addition, FCPC promotes community power and shares the benefits. The Power of Community report shares how community power increases economic activity, jobs, rid reliability, and support for renewable energy.
We aren’t just a member, our President, Brian Unrau, is also on the Board of Directors of FCPC. In this role he gets to share his expertise from guiding CED Co-op, and connect with other community power co-op leaders.
Ontario Sustainable Energy Association (OSEA)
OSEA represents the sustainable energy sector in Ontario. They bring members and supporters together to develop prosperous, healthy, sustainable communities. Together with their members, OSEA raises public awareness about sustainable energy, advises decision makers, and supports collaboration.
One of OSEA’s major events is Green Energy Doors Open (GEDO). We have participated in GEDO for the last two years. In 2015 we invited the community to our St Clements arena installation to learn about sustainable energy. Last year we partnered with MCC Ontario for a ribbon cutting and roof-top tour of their new, raised solar panel system. Both events were resounding successes!
The Ontario Co-operative Association (On Co-op)
On Co-op believes that co-operation builds a better world. Their network strives to create interest in the co-op sector, connect members, and build capacity. Member organizations like CED Co-op are guided by the 7 co-op principles. In plain language that means:
- All are welcome
- One member = one vote
- No free rides
- Self-control
- Share, learn, grow
- Together Everyone Achieves More (TEAM)
- Building strong communities
