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Green Energy & Transportation
Think Green.
The rising costs of transportation and energy—from ferries and gas to electricity—are putting increasing pressure on Hornby businesses and households. To address these challenges, HICEEC is committed to exploring affordable, sustainable alternatives. Our energy and transportation initiatives aim to build a greener future for Hornby Island while reducing costs for residents and businesses.
Ferries
HICEEC has appointed a staff member, Karen Ross, to the Ferry Advisory Committee, with the long-term goal of affordable pricing and common-sense in the ferry schedules and service. In January, 2023 Karen became the Chair of the Hornby Denman Ferry Advisory Committee. The 12 members of the committee, worked together with a group of dedicated retired BCF captains, engineers, and academics to orchestrate change. In 2023, the 44 car Quinitsa was deployed to the Hornby route for the shoulder and summer seasons. And in the summer months the Kahloke ran in tandem with the Baynes Sound Connector on the shared Islands route.
The "Ferry Discussion Group" continues to lobby for permanent, year-round, improvements to service for both routes.
To find out the location of the Hornby and Denman ferries, in real time, check out this link: http://denmanisland.org/
Solar
What about if we reduced our energy bills while greening the grid?
HICEEC has embarked on a journey to grow renewable power on the island. In collaboration with the Comox Valley Regional District, our first stop: A solar project on the new Recycling Depot Free Store, installed in June 2016.
Electric Vehicle Charging
In response to the emerging awareness for moving from fossil fuel fired vehicles to the greener electric charged vehicles, HICEEC has partnered with First Credit Union to offer a public Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station, located at the edge of the parking lot at our former office in the Union Bay Credit Union Building. Charging is by donation, with HICEEC covering infrastructure and maintenance costs while First Credit Union pays for the electricity. This collaboration provides affordable, eco-friendly transportation options for residents and visitors and reflects our shared commitment to a sustainable future.
Donations are encouraged for the station's use. HICEEC replaced the initial residential charger in 2020 with a commercial model.
The Summer Community Bus:
Why drive individual cars when you can hop on the Summer Community Bus? Operating 7 days a week, 11 hours a day, this service reduces traffic, cuts emissions, and offers a more relaxed way to explore the island. The bus is a cost-effective alternative to driving, helping to keep our air cleaner and our island less congested. Visit www.hornbybus.com for routes and schedules. Special thanks to our local sponsors and the dedicated Steering Committee for making this initiative possible.
By supporting these programs, we aim to create a healthier environment and a more resilient community, proving that green solutions can also be practical and beneficial to all.