The Prince George Chapter continues to build strong momentum, marked by renewed engagement, expanding partnerships, and a growing presence across northern British Columbia. As Chair of the Prince George Steering Committee, and in my role as Events Committee Chair for Energy Connections 2026, I am proud to share that this past week’s conference in Vancouver was a significant success. With a full capacity of 125 attendees, strong sponsorship support, and meaningful dialogue across industry and government, the event demonstrated the value of bringing diverse voices together to shape the future of sustainable energy.

Our Chapter was actively involved in supporting the conference, including helping drive the introduction of a virtual attendance option for the first time. While participation in the virtual offering did not yet offset production costs, it performed very well technically and remains an important step forward. We are committed to continuing to explore this format as a way to increase accessibility for members across northern and rural regions.   These communities are essential to the energy conversation, providing the resources, workforce, and lived experience that underpin British Columbia’s broader energy system. To those across the north who continue to engage and support this work, thank you. You are seen, valued, and needed.

At the local level, we continue to advance key priorities. Significant groundwork has been completed to bring the Cool It Climate Leadership Training program to Prince George, including engagement with the Energy Transformation Group and presentations at the University of Northern British Columbia. We are also strengthening regional partnerships, including new collaboration with the Community Energy Association through the NorthCAN network, aligning on initiatives such as EV awareness, heat pump adoption, and community energy planning. These efforts position the Chapter to play a leading role in connecting northern perspectives with provincial strategies.

British Columbia presents a unique opportunity. From coastal to inland, from plus 40 to minus 40 Celsius, across 204 First Nations and diverse communities, we operate within one of the most varied and resource rich environments in the world. If solutions can work here, they can work anywhere. By aligning our shared values, supporting reconciliation, and investing in innovation, we have the ability to develop sustainable energy solutions that not only serve our province but contribute globally. This is about building a future that is both economically and socially resilient for our families and communities.

The path forward requires participation. We encourage you to join the BC Sustainable Energy Association and be part of a growing, unified voice that represents all regions of the province. Your perspective matters, and your involvement strengthens our ability to influence policy, support innovation, and ensure that northern and rural voices remain central to the conversation. Together, we can bridge geographic and socioeconomic divides and create solutions that work for all.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement. It remains an honour to serve as Steering Committee Chair and to work alongside you in advancing sustainable energy across British Columbia.

Paul Tiefensee, Prince George Chapter Steering Committee Chair