Abstract
The idea of 'green' energy is not new, but for many homeowners in British Columbia (BC), installing any form of 'green' energy in their home or business is still unattainable due to high costs and red tape. Providing a step-by-step guide to local municipalities and providing information for viable financing options will address and help to overcome these barriers. This will further enable and encourage residents and developers within community, making 'green' energy finally within reach. Although there are many forms of sustainable energy, our area of focus is aimed specifically at solar energy, to aid the efforts of the Sunshine Coast Community Solar Association (SCCSA) in Gibsons, BC. Our aim is to outline issues surrounding solar energy and how to overcome them in a simple step-by-step process. Through our research, we will show how communities around the world have successfully implemented solar energy policies and practices and how we addressed these issues on the Sunshine Coast. Key elements such as sun exposure, median incomes, and an understanding of prior environmental policies and regulations in these municipalities will be of particular interest. These best practices will be identified in areas of regional comparisons, grants and incentives, and financing options.