Josie Ward (University of Saskatchewan) , Marc-André Pigeon (University of Saskatchewan) , Martin Boucher (NorQuest College)
The integration of community energy within the broader renewable energy transition is gaining traction among provincial governments in Canada. Renewable energy co-operatives (RECs) have the potential to accelerate renewable energy adoption by fostering local ownership, democratizing energy systems, and increasing community resilience. However, the policies and regulations that govern RECs vary significantly across provinces, shaping both opportunities and barriers for sector growth. This study develops a Renewable Energy Co-operative Policy Index to systematically evaluate how provincial policies, and regulatory frameworks impact the development of RECs. Motivated by the importance of policy indicators in Kingdon’s Multiple Streams Approach, we developed the index to serve as a tool for influencing policy by presenting data, identifying barriers, and guiding the development of policy solutions. The index—developed through a synthesis of existing REC research, practitioner insights from a national workshop, and desk research—consists of three key dimensions: renewable energy landscape, community energy access, and community energy finance. Applying the index across all Canadian provinces, we find a highly uneven policy landscape, with significant variability in provincial support and a clear divide between the highest and lowest-scoring provinces. By identifying the strengths and weaknesses of provincial regulatory environments, this research provides a roadmap for policymakers to strengthen the sector and contributes to broader discussions on the policy and financial mechanisms needed to scale community-led renewable energy initiatives.