Hi!  I am Paul Tiefensee.  I am the CEO of Formula Contractors Ltd. This position has enabled me to interact and develop strong working relationships with numerous people in the resource sector.  I am new to the BCSEA Board of Directors.  My acting position on the BCSEA BOD is the Chair of the Prince George Chapter.  As a point of reference, I was a founding Director with several others, in the Prince George area for the British Columbia Resource Coalition BCRC.  As of March 2024, the BCRC began the process of amalgamating with the BCSEA.  The purpose of this was to intentionally link BC’s north to the south for the benefit of a more collaborative voice in the renewable energy sector.

The reason that I and my Prince George colleagues got involved with the advocation of the renewable, resource energy sector is because it aligns with our beliefs, core values, and livelihoods; the sustainable development of natural resources in British Columbia, while preserving our environment and culture. Through working with communities, Indigenous organizations, and governments the intent is to promote engagement and subsequently alignment of all stakeholders.  This collaborative approach fosters a community that is motivated to work together to further improve the development and implementation of world-class environmental stewardship, value-added opportunities, manufacturing/processing technologies and educational faculties.  

Communities across the province face inequalities in terms of infrastructure development; these are combined with additional constraints such as cold weather and geographic location. To achieve a global net zero carbon footprint these constraints must be considered. These inequalities are most evident when comparing southern B.C. to northern B.C.  To heal this divide, it’s important to understand that a single, one size fits all solution may not work. When evaluating solutions on a total carbon footprint – from concept to completion – one can appreciate an optimal solution will be tailored to the unique needs of a community.  

In closing, to effectively evaluate any choice in terms of reducing overall carbon footprint, we must be willing to consider the total carbon footprint of a solution from creation to destruction.  We are all excited that our newly formed group, with the benefit of having BOD members and membership engaged in the BCSEA, from all geographical areas of the province, there is the knowledge and experience to accomplish this.  Exciting times! Stay tuned!