Energy efficiency isn’t just a technical upgrade, it’s a strategic investment in long-term affordability, resident well-being and climate resilience. For affordable housing providers, integrating energy-efficient measures into new builds or retrofit projects can raise questions about upfront costs and planning complexity. But the benefits are clear: lower operating costs, healthier indoor environments and improved comfort for residents.

If you represent a not-for-profit organization, housing co-operative or municipal authority engaged in affordable housing, this factsheet can help you build a compelling case for energy efficiency that resonates with your board and funders. By highlighting the financial, social and environmental returns early in the planning phase, you can strengthen support for including energy efficiency measures in your capital projects and ensure your housing investments deliver lasting value.

Review the information below to learn how to make the case to your board and funders and explore next steps for integrating energy efficiency into your buildings.
 

Be informed

 Efficient buildings lower operating costs

• Make it clear that a more efficient building will have lower ongoing operating costs for heating fuel and electricity.
   
• Implementing energy conservation measures (ECM) that reduce electricity and fuel usage will save you money on your energy bills. ECMs such as tuning up old equipment, purchasing higher-quality equipment and lowering equipment usage will help lower maintenance costs.
   
  • Explore GMF's Understanding energy efficiency guide for a comprehensive look into energy conservation measures to boost energy efficiency.
     
• Lower energy consumption also makes your ongoing expenses more predictable, as you will be less affected by energy cost increases and sudden price shocks. This stabilizes your budget and the rent you charge to residents. As prices increase, a more efficient building will be more competitive in the market. Run your business case by inputting several different values for annual fuel escalation costs to evaluate this risk.
   
• Explore real-world examples:

Case study: Pine Tree Park

The Pine Tree Park retrofit in Cape Breton, NS, demonstrates how deep energy upgrades and solar installations can significantly reduce operating costs. After replacing oil furnaces with high-efficiency heat pumps and installing a 700kW solar array, residents saw their monthly utility bills drop by approximately $200, translating to an annual savings of about $2,500 per household.

Case study: Heartland Housing Foundation

The Heartland Housing Foundation’s new net-zero affordable housing complex in Fort Saskatchewan, AB, showcases how smart design can drastically reduce operating costs. This 83-unit new build uses solar panels, electric HVAC systems, and a high-performance building envelope so that the housing units achieve net-zero energy by generating as much energy as they consume.

Case study: Sundance Housing Co-operative

The Sundance Housing Co-operative in Edmonton, AB, completed Canada’s largest panelized deep energy retrofit to eliminate natural gas use in its 59-unit townhouse complex. By installing prefabricated wall panels, upgrading insulation, replacing windows and doors, and adding electric heat pumps and rooftop solar panels, the co-op reduced energy consumption by up to 84 percent. Thanks to the reduction in externally supplied energy the co-op hopes to save members up to $100,000 cumulatively each year. Residents now enjoy quieter, more comfortable homes while preventing 330 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year.

To explore projects in your region, consult GMF's project database.  

• For more specific numbers, have an energy modeler and cost consultant on your design team run an analysis that’s specific to your building, location, and construction/utility costs. If there are other efficient or net-zero buildings in your area, you can talk to their operators to see how their costs have compared to a more conventional building.

Efficient buildings cut emissions and risk

• The building and equipment choices you make today can either lock in future risk or build long-term resilience and affordability.
   
• Buildings that rely on fossil fuels are more likely to face rising costs and uncertainty in the future due to evolving regulations and market pressure. By improving energy efficiency and/or switching to technologies like heat pumps, housing providers can reduce these risks and make their buildings more stable and affordable over time.
   
• Emitting greenhouse gases is likely to become less politically and publicly acceptable over time as the effects of climate change become more severe. Building efficiently now is cheaper than retrofitting later.

Higher building performance unlocks funding opportunities

• Improved energy efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions is a condition of obtaining approval for some funding or loan programs. In some cases, exceeding the minimum requirements makes it more likely that your project will be approved quickly.
   
• Learn about additional funding sources to support your affordable housing project through GMF's funders list for sustainable affordable housing.

Use energy efficiency to engage and empower residents

• By minimizing the energy use under your control as a building operator (e.g. heating, cooling, ventilation, common area lighting) you set a good example for your residents. This can encourage them to minimize the energy use within their control (e.g. lighting, plug-in appliances, hot water).
   
• If you have a building energy monitoring system (BEMS) you can even install a display in the lobby that encourages efficient behaviours by showing current and historical energy use. If you don’t have a BEMS, consider including it in your design.
   
• Learn more about how a building energy monitoring system can lower costs and emissions through this GMF factsheet: Get started on energy monitoring.

Design choices build community trust

• Improving energy efficiency shows you care about your surroundings and may make your project more acceptable to neighbours, reducing public opposition and making project approval from local authorities more likely.
   
• Energy-efficient new builds and deeply retrofitted homes help communities create dignified, comfortable living spaces that residents feel proud to call their own.
   
  • In addition to the benefits of energy savings, these design choices foster a sense of belonging and pride among residents, as one resident shared as part of GMF’s resident stories article series: “This place is my favourite out of everywhere I’ve lived. It’s safe, it’s beautiful, and it feels like home.” (Rossland Yards: Building stability and a sense of home) 

Efficient buildings support climate resilience and occupants’ well-being

• More efficient buildings also have features that can improve occupants’ well-being, such as better thermal comfort, indoor air quality and access to natural lighting.
   
• Efficient buildings tend to be more resilient to extreme weather events and other effects of climate change. For example, a well-insulated building will keep occupants warm in a winter power outage for much longer. A building with good passive solar shading will keep its occupants’ cooler in case of a summer outage.

Local sourcing strengthens regional economies

• Local sourcing helps regional economies by keeping money within the community, supporting local fuel harvesting and processing jobs and reducing dependence on imported conventional fuels, when these resources are used sustainably and are locally available.

Make your case

Next steps

This resource was created with contributions from the Rural Development Network.

Fire-resistant retrofits cut ignition pathways, buying time for buildings and people during fires. Replacing vulnerable components within the building envelope and surrounding structures (roofs, siding, vents, decks, fences) with fire-resistant assemblies reduces ember entry and direct flame contact, primary causes of structure loss in wildland–urban interface fires.

For small and rural communities who face longer response times to wildfires and limited capacity in emergency response, targeted material upgrades are a fast, effective way to lower risks for priority facilities.

This guidance outlines key steps, best practices, costing information and case studies to help municipalities plan and deliver fire-resistant material installation projects.

Key steps for successful implementation

• Identify priority buildings and zones: Start with community-serving sites such as clinics, community centres and libraries, and a non-combustible zone of 0–1.5 metres at foundations, decks and attachments.
• Select compliant materials: Use non-combustible or class-A rated assemblies for roofing, siding, soffits, vents and decks (e.g., metal or class-A shingles; stucco/brick/fibre-cement; metal vents with three millimetres of screening mesh)
• Detail for ember resistance: Enclose deck undersides, screen vents and openings, block soffits/fascia, and remove combustible mulch that is against walls
• Permit, procure and stage works: Align with local and national guidelines¹; bundle small scopes of work, such as roofs and vents, to reduce mobilization costs
• Inspect and maintain: Schedule annual checks of sealants, screens and flashings; keep zones clear of fine fuels

Best practices for design and delivery

• Pick proven assemblies: Favour stucco, brick or fibre-cement siding; metal or class-A roof shingles; non-combustible fascia/soffits; metal vents with three millimetres of screening mesh; and fire-rated decking or enclosed deck bases
• Design for affordability and upkeep: Choose readily available, code-recognized products (e.g., fibre-cement, metal) and simple details that crews can easily maintain
• Use municipal lists/templates: Access regional or provincial templates (e.g., via CanadaBuys² or InfraGuide³) or document current project practices to build internal reference tools

Equity and community considerations

• Prioritize facilities serving those most at-risk during emergencies: Retrofit public buildings such as clinics and social housing; upgrades like fire-resistant roofs, vents and siding can help these facilities function as clean air/warm air/cool air refuges during emergencies
• Pair retrofits with public education: Use retrofit projects as opportunities to raise awareness about wildfire risks and the role of resilient infrastructure
• Build local capacity: Where possible, engage local vendors and offer training to support workforce development and economic resilience

Costing and budgeting information

Fire-resistant material installation can cost $30–$400 per square metre of building envelope, depending on building type, material selection and retrofit complexity.

Typical cost drivers include the following: permits/inspections (Wildfire DPA/bylaw compliance); mobilization for remote sites; disposal of old materials; and post-retrofit maintenance.

To help reduce overall costs:

• Treat the highest-risk areas first (the first 0–10 metres around buildings), expanding as funds allow
• Standardize specs and buy in bulk by coordinating purchases across departments and projects
• Leverage in-house staff and volunteers for light work such as clearing vegetation around buildings, installing ember-resistant vent screens or painting fire-resistant coatings (tasks that can be completed through supervised community work bees or maintenance days)
• Share or rent equipment like chippers or brush cutters with neighbours
• Book shoulder-season vendor rates and use municipal materials lists to streamline procurement

Case studies and lessons learned

Bylaw-driven wildfire resilience through design standards (Nelson, BC, 2022)

The City of Nelson adopted wildfire design guidelines based on FireSmart principles, requiring a non-combustible 0–1.5 metre zone around buildings and prescribing fire-resistant materials in the 1.5–10 metre zone. These standards are tied directly to development approvals, streamlining compliance and embedding wildfire resilience into everyday municipal planning.

Lesson learned: Clear, enforceable municipal standards make consistent fire-resistant retrofits feasible at scale and reduce case-by-case negotiation.

Post-fire analysis to guide fire-resistant retrofits and detailing (Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, AB, 2019)

Following the Fort McMurray wildfire, post-fire analysis by the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction revealed that homes with ignition-resistant roofs and cladding were more likely to survive. However, many losses were traced to vulnerable attachments, such as vents, soffits, decks, fences and nearby vegetation. This highlighted the importance of whole-building detailing.

Lesson learned: For small communities, upgrading headline materials like roofing is not enough. Addressing edge conditions and interfaces (e.g., vents, decks, fences) is also important to reduce ignition pathways and improve building survivability.

Locally produced hemp blocks offer fire and moisture resilience with economic co-benefits (Elk Point, AB, 2025)

Asinikahtamwak, a company majority-owned by Frog Lake First Nation, produces hemp–cement blocks that are lighter than cinder blocks and resistant to mold and fire. For small communities, locally produced blocks can cut transport costs and provide culturally aligned, lower-carbon materials for community facilities.

Lesson learned: Emerging bio-based masonry can pair resilience in both fire and moisture performance with economic co-benefits, especially when supply chains are regional and culturally grounded.

*Note: The case studies included on this page are for informational purposes and were not supported by the Green Municipal Fund.

Additional resources

National guide for wildland–urban interface fires (National Research Council of Canada) – This resource offers technical guidance on hazard/exposure assessment and property protection. It also discusses the Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes’ role in updating these codes to ensure they meet the evolving needs of safety, energy efficiency and environmental considerations in the building sector.

Home development guide (FireSmart) – This guide outlines materials and assembly guidance for roofs, siding, decks and vents with practical diagrams. It also highlights community-level planning and preparedness, encouraging neighbourhoods to collaborate and mitigate wildfire threats. Although the guide focuses on residential properties, similar principles and approaches apply to community facilities.

Construction and landscaping checklists (FireSmart BC and the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction) – These checklists provide guidance for builders, developers and planners to create homes and communities that are more resilient to wildland fires by following best practices in site planning, architectural design, materials selection and landscaping. Examples include product characteristics, test standards and detailing tips.

FireSmart materials list (City of Nelson) – This is a list of pre-vetted local materials for less-flammable construction. Practical, actionable strategies for enhancing community and individual home resilience, including considerations for plants, construction materials and general property maintenance are also discussed.

Explore more community facilities resilience activities

Learn about other community facilities resilience project types and how they can support your community:

• Green roof installation projects
• Battery back-ups and battery-powered generator projects

Return to the Resilient Community Facilities Toolkit for Municipalities

Related toolkits

GMF offers additional toolkits to support municipalities facing different climate risks. 

• Flood Resilience Toolkit
• Wildfire Resilience Toolkit
• Heat Resilience Toolkit

Glossary

Wildland–urban interface (WUI): The zone where human development meets or intermingles with wildland vegetation, often at high wildfire risk

Fire-resistant assemblies: Building components (e.g., roofs, siding) designed to withstand ignition from embers or flames  

Non-combustible zone: A defensible space (typically 0–1.5 metres around buildings) cleared of flammable materials to reduce fire risk

Class-A rated materials: Building products tested and certified to offer the highest level of fire resistance

Ember resistance: Design features that prevent wind-driven embers from entering or igniting structures

FireSmart: A Canadian program offering guidelines and best practices for wildfire resilience in communities

Soffits: Architectural features that require screening or sealing to prevent ember intrusion

Mobilization costs: Expenses related to transporting materials, equipment and labour to remote or rural retrofit sites

Bio-based masonry: Sustainable building materials (e.g., hemp–cement blocks) offering fire and moisture resistance

Priority Zone 1a: The critical area within 0–1.5 metres of a structure, prioritized for fire-resistant upgrades

Select resources

1. https://nrc.canada.ca/en/certifications-evaluations-standards/codes-canada/construction-innovation/new-national-guide-wildland-urban-interface-fires
2. https://canadabuys.canada.ca/en
3. https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/resources/infraguide-national-guide-sustainable-municipal-infrastructure

Green roofs are roofing systems that are partially or completely covered with vegetation, planted over a drainage layer and a waterproof membrane. They are installed to reduce building heat stress, manage stormwater and support sustainable building design.

Green roofs increase a facility’s resilience by improving insulation, lowering energy costs and mitigating urban heat islands. For small and rural Canadian communities, they extend the lifespan of public buildings, enhance indoor comfort during extreme heat, and provide a visible, community-driven climate adaptation. This is especially so when green roofs are installed on well-used facilities like libraries, arenas or community centres.

This guidance outlines key steps, best practices, costing information and case studies to help municipalities plan and deliver green roof installation projects.

Key steps for successful implementation

• Assess structural feasibility: Conduct an engineering review to confirm that the roof can support soil, plants and snow loads, and that its slope is compatible with a living roof
• Secure permits and waterproofing: Ensure designs align with municipal building codes and include durable membranes to prevent leaks
• Design slope and drainage: Plan for proper runoff and integrate soil-moisture sensors or simple irrigation systems; consider a retention pond to recirculate irrigation water
• Select climate-appropriate plants: Use native plants like sedums, drought-resistant grasses or other hardy perennials suited to local conditions
• Develop an operations and maintenance plan: Schedule spring and fall inspections, drain checks, and replanting where it is needed

Best practices for design and delivery

• Ensure safe access: Design roofs with secure access points—such as hatches or ladders—and install fall protection systems to reduce safety risks (this is essential for small buildings, as limited space and lower roof heights can lead to overlooked hazards)
• Build partnerships: Collaborate with local horticultural groups for plant selection, partner with schools for educational programming, and involve building operators early to ensure long-term maintenance and monitoring

Equity and community considerations

• Prioritize vulnerable groups: Install green roofs on public facilities (e.g., libraries, social housing) where older adults, children and people living on lower incomes can benefit most from better temperature regulation, reduced noise and cleaner air during extreme weather events
• Integrate Indigenous Knowledge: Engage Indigenous partners early to integrate Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) into plant selection and design, being sure to offer honoraria for their time and expertise; support the hiring of Indigenous vendors
• Explore social use potential: Design green roofs to include accessible gathering areas or educational features where structurally feasible

Costing and budgeting information

Green roof installation projects can cost $150–$700 per square metre, depending on roof size, structural conditions and design complexity.

Typical cost drivers include the following: site assessment and structural engineering; permits and inspections; waterproofing and drainage systems; growing medium and plant selection; labour and scaffolding; and ongoing maintenance (e.g., weeding, irrigation, drain checks).

To help reduce overall costs:

• Start with extensive or semi-intensive systems that require less structural reinforcement and maintenance

• Use drought-tolerant native plants to reduce irrigation need

• Engage local volunteers or green job trainees for planting and light maintenance

• Partner with local nurseries or landscape programs for donated or discounted plants and materials

Case studies and lessons learned

Collaborative green roof installation to manage stormwater and build climate resilience (Tantramar, NB, 2022)

Over the span of two years, the Town of Tantramar installed a green roof on its town hall to improve freshwater management, reduce flood risk and enhance climate resilience. The project emphasized ecological benefits and community engagement, adapting plans midway to overcome logistical and pandemic-related challenges.

Lesson learned: Small communities can navigate complex installations by remaining flexible—modifying design plans, expanding roof areas, and using virtual outreach to maintain momentum despite limited resources and external disruptions.

Green roof retrofit to transform civic space and showcase climate adaptation (Campbell River, BC, 2018)

Campbell River renovated its city hall’s roof with a combination of extensive green roofing and a landscaped public courtyard, funded through the Federal Gas Tax Fund. The retrofit served both functional and educational purposes, demonstrating how civic infrastructure can respond to local climate vulnerabilities.

Lesson learned: Green roof retrofits can turn underused municipal spaces into visible climate adaptation assets, offering both environmental benefits and public engagement opportunities for small communities.

*Note: The case studies included on this page are for informational purposes and were not supported by the Green Municipal Fund.

Additional resources

Ecoroof guide for municipalities (Rockies Institute) – This guide offers municipalities insights into converting rooftops into green spaces, highlighting benefits like improved air quality and stormwater management. It includes considerations for smaller-scale implementation.

Green roof construction guidelines (Sustainable Technologies Evaluation Program) –Provides technical guidance on green roof design, plant selection and structural considerations. The resource is well-suited for small communities with limited budgets seeking to integrate green infrastructure into public buildings.

Toronto green roof construction standard supplementary guidelines (City of Toronto) –This guideline provides best practices and explanatory materials to assist designers in meeting the city's green roof requirements, aligning with the Ontario Building Code and promoting sustainable urban development. While developed for an urban setting, the design principles and performance standards are adaptable to smaller municipalities.

Explore more community facilities activities

Learn about other community facilities project types and how they can support your community:

• Battery-powered generators/battery back-up projects
• Fire-resistant material installation projects

Return to the Resilient Community Facilities Toolkit for Municipalities

Related toolkits

GMF offers additional toolkits to support municipalities facing different climate risks. 

• Flood Resilience Toolkit
• Wildfire Resilience Toolkit
• Heat Resilience Toolkit

Glossary

Green roof: A rooftop system layered with soil and vegetation to improve insulation, manage water and reduce heat

Stormwater management: Techniques used to control runoff from rain, reducing flooding and improving water quality

Urban heat island: A phenomenon where urban areas are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas due to human activities and infrastructure

Structural feasibility: The ability of a building’s roof to support the added weight of soil, plants and water

Waterproofing membrane: A protective layer that prevents water from penetrating the roof structure beneath the green roof

Native plants: Vegetation naturally adapted to the local climate, requiring less maintenance and water

Operations and maintenance plan: A scheduled plan for inspecting, maintaining and replanting green roof systems

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK): Indigenous knowledge systems that inform sustainable practices, including plant selection and ecological design

Retention pond: A water feature used to collect and reuse irrigation runoff from green roofs

Fall protection: Safety measures (e.g., guardrails, harnesses) to prevent injury during roof access and maintenance

Battery back-ups provide a secondary source of power that keeps essential community services running when the primary source of power is out. Increasingly frequent storms, extreme weather, climate-related outages and peak demand challenges mean rural and remote communities face longer restoration times and greater risks of service disruption.

Back-up systems, whether portable or integrated, help protect critical functions. They allow public facilities to serve asresilience hubs and safe shelters during emergencies.

This guidance outlines key steps, best practices, costing information and case studies to help municipalities plan and deliver battery-powered generator and battery back-up projects.

Key steps for successful implementation

• Obtain permits and ensure compliance: Secure electrical permits, use CSA-certified equipment¹ and hire a licensed electrician and gas fitter if required
• Determine critical loads: Conduct an energy audit to identify appliances and systems that must be powered (e.g., refrigeration, heat pumps, communications)
• Choose the right system: Consider size, fuel source, solar-ready options or smart panels for load prioritization; ensure proper ventilation
• Develop risk and safety protocols: Prepare emergency response procedures for fire, overheating, fuel leaks or electrical hazards
• Plan for testing and maintenance: Schedule regular inspections, software updates and battery performance checks

Best practices for design and delivery

• Engage the community early: Survey residents on concerns such as noise, safety and aesthetics; use their feedback to guide placement and design while communicating benefits and setting clear expectations
• Plan for inclusivity: Select public buildings (e.g., libraries, clinics, community centres) with open access, extended hours and physical accessibility; prioritize locations in equity-deserving neighbourhoods to ensure benefits reach those most impacted during service disruptions
• Train facility staff and neighbours: Provide clear training on system operation and maintenance, extending the invitation to operators in nearby municipalities and Indigenous communities to build regional capacity

Equity and community considerations

• Prioritize multi-purpose community hubs: Select facilities that already serve as trusted gathering spaces and that can function as clean air/warm air/cool air refuges during emergencies; sites with existing social programming (e.g., libraries, community centres) are more likely to attract diverse residents
• Ensure equitable access: Set clear public access hours, barrier-free entry, transportation options; consider social barriers too, including groups who may face discrimination or feel unsafe in public spaces
• Build Indigenous partnerships: Use installations as training opportunities for Indigenous and neighbouring communities to build workforce development and advance reconciliation

Costing and budgeting information

Battery back-up system installation can cost $1,200–$8,000 per kW for battery systems, depending on system size, energy demand and integration complexity.

Typical cost drivers include the following: permits and inspections for electrical compliance; system design and integration with existing infrastructure; mobilization for remote or hard-to-access sites; disposal and recycling of old batteries or generator components; and ongoing maintenance.

To help reduce overall costs:

• Fit the system to cover only critical loads (e.g., refrigeration, lighting, communications)
• Coordinate bulk purchases across departments or neighbouring communities to reduce unit costs.
• Schedule installations during off-peak seasons to access lower vendor rates and avoid delays
• Plan end-of-life disposal and recycling to minimize disposal costs

Case studies and lessons learned

Multi-serving battery back-up and EV charging at community recreation hub (Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, ON, 2023)

In 2023, Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve installed a battery back-up system at its community recreational complex, enhancing local energy resilience. The system stores electricity to provide reliable power during outages. It supports peak demand and integrates with renewable energy sources. Installed alongside two level-2 and two fast EV charging stations, the facility now serves as a multi-functional hub that supports recreation, transportation and emergency response.

Lesson learned: Even a single public facility can double as an emergency refuge and energy resource during outages, especially when paired with complementary infrastructure.

Hybrid back-up power system for a multi-unit residential building (Vancouver, BC, 2019)

This study modelled five back-up power system options for an 80-kW load over a 72-hour outage at a small residential co-op. Options included combinations of diesel, propane, solar PV and lithium-ion batteries. The propane + lithium-ion + solar PV system was found to offer the best balance of resilience, environmental impact and cost-effectiveness, with a net present value within five percent of a baseline diesel generator.

Lesson learned: Small facilities can achieve meaningful resilience and emissions reductions by combining modest battery storage with solar and propane systems, especially when energy pricing structures support peak load management.

*Note: The case studies included on this page are for informational purposes and were not supported by the Green Municipal Fund.

Additional resources

Back-up power guidelines (City of Toronto) – This document provides practical guidance for integrating back-up power systems into buildings, with adaptable recommendations for public facilities like community centres and shelters. Communities can use it to assess power needs, identify suitable technologies and plan for emergency preparedness.

Canada’s home electrification toolkit (Building Decarbonization Alliance) – This national resource offers guidance on selecting and installing home battery systems and back-up generators. It includes cost comparisons and technology options suitable for residential and small community use.

Municipal energy procurement toolkit (Association of Municipalities of Ontario) – This toolkit helps municipalities navigate procurement for energy projects, including battery storage, with guidance on site planning, public engagement and emergency management. It covers land-use planning, siting and agricultural protection in a concise format that helps staff quickly assess project fit and community impact using practical criteria.

Explore more community facilities resilience activities

Learn about other community facilities resilience project types and how they can support your community:

• Green roof installation projects
• Fire-resistant material installation projects

Return to the Resilient Community Facilities Toolkit for Municipalities

Related toolkits

GMF offers additional toolkits to support municipalities facing different climate risks. 

• Flood Resilience Toolkit
• Wildfire Resilience Toolkit
• Heat Resilience Toolkit

Glossary

Battery back-up: A system that stores electricity to power essential services during outages

Critical loads: Appliances or systems (e.g., HVAC, refrigeration) that must remain powered during emergencies

CSA-certified equipment: Electrical products approved by the Canadian Standards Association for safety and compliance

Smart panels: Electrical panels that prioritize and manage power distribution during limited supply situations

Energy audit: An assessment to determine energy usage and identify essential systems to back up

Resilience hub: A public facility equipped to provide shelter and services during emergencies

Distributed energy resource management systems (DERMS): Software platforms that optimize and control decentralized energy systems like batteries and solar

Solar-ready systems: Back-up systems designed to integrate with solar panels for renewable energy use

End-of-life disposal: The safe and environmentally responsible removal and recycling of used battery systems

Select resources

1. CSA Group Product Listing - CSA Group

Wildfire prevention training equips both staff and residents with the knowledge they need to reduce ignition risks and prepare for emergencies. Communities can turn prevention into everyday practice by education on FireSmart basics, incident awareness and cultural fire co-management.

For small and rural Canadian municipalities, accessible training builds local capacity, empowers volunteers, and strengthens cooperation across residents, Indigenous Knowledge holders and fire authorities. This helps communities act early and reduce risks before wildfires occur.

This guidance outlines key steps, best practices, costing information and case studies to help municipalities plan and deliver wildfire prevention training projects.

Key steps for successful implementation

• Select target audiences: Choose the right training for staff, homeowners or volunteers (e.g., FireSmart basics for residents; facility preparedness for municipal staff)
• Choose delivery formats: Combine short online modules, in-person workshops and community demo days for accessibility
• Engage trainers and facilitators: Work with local fire agencies, Indigenous fire stewards or FireSmart program staff
• Keep records: Track attendance and issue certificates to build credibility, motivate participation and support funding applications
• Integrate training into routines: Align with existing council meetings, staff development days or community events

Best practices for design and delivery

• Tailor delivery to audience needs: Run evening sessions for residents, daytime practical sessions for public works crews and hybrid formats for staff with limited availability
• Offer blended formats: Pair short online modules with one field day to keep costs low and increase reach
• Co-develop with Indigenous partners: Integrate Traditional Ecological Knowledge and cultural protocols to strengthen ecological and social outcomes
• Partner with experts: Collaborate with FireSmart Canada, provincial wildfire agencies, and public health authorities to ensure alignment with recognized best practices
• Encourage peer-to-peer learning: Support local FireSmart champions or ambassadors to share knowledge across neighbourhoods

Equity and community considerations

• Cultural awareness and Indigenous Knowledge: Partner with Indigenous firekeepers as co-trainers, budget for honoraria and include cultural safety protocols
• Address employment barriers: Link skills development to job opportunities in wildfire management, creating pathways for youth and underemployed populations
• Accommodate accessibility: Provide transportation, childcare support and flexible scheduling for training and burn activities, to remove participation barriers for remote and rural communities

Costing and budgeting information

Wildfire prevention training projects typically cost $5,000–$25,000 per community session, depending on the number of participants and training topic.

Typical cost drivers include the following: instructor fees; venue rental; travel and accommodation for instructors (especially in remote areas); print and digital materials (e.g., flyers, posters, e-learning content); administrative costs (e.g., coordination, registration, logistics); and honoraria/compensation for Indigenous Knowledge holders and guest speakers.

To help reduce overall costs:

• Leverage virtual or hybrid training formats to minimize travel and venue expenses
• Partner with local organizations (schools, community centres) to access free or low-cost spaces
• Bundle training sessions with other community events to share costs and increase participation

Case studies and lessons learned

Joint training built shared skills in cultural fire effects monitoring workshop (Ktunaxa Territory, BC, 2022)

This three-day workshop brought together Indigenous fire stewards, municipal staff and wildfire professionals to deepen understanding of cultural burning practices and fire effects monitoring. The event combined classroom sessions with field-based learning, focusing on how cultural burns can restore ecological balance, reduce wildfire risk and revitalize traditional land stewardship. The workshop trained 30+ participants in cultural fire planning and monitoring techniques.

Lesson learned: Joint training strengthens Indigenous–municipal collaboration and builds shared monitoring skills. Bringing diverse knowledge systems together fosters mutual respect, improves ecological outcomes and builds capacity for culturally relevant fire management.

Local delivery increased participation in FireSmart workshops (Saskatchewan First Nations Emergency Management, SK, 2021)

Community-led workshops provided First Nations communities with tailored FireSmart training, often supported by grant funding. Each session was adapted to local conditions, cultural contexts and community priorities. Topics included home ignition zone assessments, vegetation management, emergency planning and community engagement strategies.

Lesson learned: Locally delivered training increases participation and adapts content to community realities. When workshops are led by trusted community members and tailored to local needs, they are more effective, inclusive and sustainable.

*Note: The case studies included on this page are for informational purposes and were not supported by the Green Municipal Fund.

Additional resources

Wildfire risk reduction course (Province of British Columbia) – This 3.5-hour online course introduces participants to the fundamentals of wildfire risk reduction, including key concepts, stakeholders and mitigation strategies. It also covers funding opportunities and planning tools to support community-level fire preparedness and resilience.

FireSmart 101 (FireSmart) – This one-hour online course introduces individuals and communities to the core principles of FireSmart. It covers basic wildfire behaviour, home protection strategies and community-level actions to reduce fire risk in a clear and accessible format.

Indigenous youth wildfire training (National Indigenous Fire Safety Council) – This nationwide program offers hands-on and online training for Indigenous youth aged 15–30. It includes S-100 and S-185 certifications, pump and hose operation, and fire safety skills. This initiative builds local firefighting capacity while supporting cultural knowledge integration.

Explore more wildfire resilience activities

Learn about other wildfire resilience project types and how they can support your community:

• Prescribed and cultural burns
• Vegetative management and replacement

Return to the Wildfire Resilience Toolkit for Municipalities 

Related toolkits

GMF offers additional toolkits to support municipalities facing different climate risks. 

• Flood Resilience Toolkit
• Heat Resilience Toolkit
• Community Facilities Toolkit

Glossary

FireSmart: A national Canadian program offering practical guidelines to reduce wildfire hazards around homes and communities

Cultural fire co-management: Collaborative fire stewardship that integrates Indigenous burning practices with municipal fire management

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK): Indigenous understanding of ecosystems, fire behaviour and land stewardship passed through generations

FireSmart champions: Local volunteers trained to promote FireSmart practices and support peer-to-peer learning in their communities

Incident awareness: Understanding wildfire risks, emergency alerts and response protocols to act quickly during fire events

Thinning vegetation, clearing debris and accumulated deadfall, and using the natural topography that surrounds a community can create protective barriers that slow wildfire spread. For small and rural Canadian communities, vegetative management and replacement is a cost-effective, visible intervention that lowers exposure while improving safety for residents and responders.

It can also provide opportunities for community engagement and the integration of Indigenous fire stewardship practices into local climate resilience strategies.

This guidance outlines key steps, best practices, costing information and case studies to help municipalities plan and deliver vegetative management and replacement projects.

Key steps for successful implementation

• Consult local experts: Coordinate with provincial/territorial wildfire agencies, Indigenous communities and land managers to align with permitting requirements
• Manage vegetation: Remove deadwood, prune low branches and thin fuel loads using hand tools, mechanical clearing or prescribed fire
• Ensure firefighting access: Design zones with pathways or clearings so crews can operate safely during fire events
• Plan for maintenance: Schedule monitoring and re-treat areas every few years (more often after storms or beetle outbreaks)

Best practices for design and delivery

• Prioritize strategic locations: Focus vegetative management efforts on areas of highest risk, such as community perimeters, evacuation routes and critical infrastructure
• Integrate topography: Align management zones with the landscape to maximize effectiveness and minimize costs
• Prioritize low-maintenance plants: Use drought-resistant, native, pest-resistant and non-invasive species to ensure sustainability
• Integrate ecosystem co-benefits: Pair vegetation clearing with invasive species removal

Equity and community considerations

• Apply Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK): Integrate Indigenous Knowledge of fire patterns, plant cycles and natural cues to guide where and how to conduct vegetative management and replacement (avoid removing plants or features with cultural significance during vegetation replacement projects)
• Incorporate public engagement opportunities: Facilitate volunteer programs to build awareness and community
• Encourage local employment: Engage local contractors and nurseries to stimulate community economy during vegetation projects

Costing and budgeting information

Vegetation management projects typically cost $5,000–$15,000 per hectare, depending on site condition and scope.

Key cost drivers include site mapping and design, community engagement and communications, physical work (e.g., vegetation removal, thinning, pruning), and PPE and other types of equipment for crews.

To help reduce overall costs:

• Leverage community volunteers for vegetation thinning and monitoring, providing honoraria for equity-deserving groups
• Schedule work during off-peak seasons to reduce contractor and equipment rental costs

Case studies and lessons learned

Volunteer-led vegetation clearing (Napatak, Saskatchewan, 2023)

Residents in Napatak organized a community-driven effort to clear flammable vegetation around homes. Supported by FireSmart principles and guidance, volunteers created defensible spaces and buffer zones to reduce wildfire risk. This initiative demonstrated how small northern communities can mobilize local resources effectively without relying on large budgets or costly contractors.

Lesson learned: Volunteer mobilization makes vegetation management feasible and cost-effective, even with limited financial resources.

Blood Tribe fire guardianship program (Alberta, 2022)

The Blood Tribe in Alberta launched a fire guardianship program to protect community sites from wildfire risk. This initiative combined Traditional Ecological Knowledge with other fire management practices, creating buffer zones and reducing hazardous vegetation. The community demonstrated a holistic approach to fire safety that respects cultural values while meeting mandated resilience standards.

Lesson learned: Indigenous-led programs can enhance wildfire safety with an approach that integrates Traditional Knowledge with modern fire management, sustaining cultural stewardship.

*Note: The case studies included on this page are for informational purposes and were not supported by the Green Municipal Fund.

Additional resources

Canadian wildland fire prevention and mitigation strategy (Canadian Council of Forest Ministers) – This national framework emphasizes vegetation management as a core component of wildfire prevention. It outlines strategies for creating defensible spaces, reducing fuel loads and integrating Indigenous partnerships for land stewardship. It provides actionable steps for community-level vegetation control and highlights funding opportunities for prevention projects.

Critical infrastructure guide (FireSmart) – This video resource focuses on protecting essential infrastructure—such as utilities, clinics and emergency services—through strategic buffer zones and vegetation management. It includes examples of infrastructure-specific risk assessments and FireSmart design principles.

Crown land wildfire risk reduction planning guide (Province of British Columbia) – This comprehensive planning guide supports professionals in designing and implementing fuel management projects on Crown land. It includes detailed methodologies for site assessment, project design, regulatory compliance and monitoring, with a focus on buffer zones and ecological integrity.

Explore more wildfire resilience activities

Learn about other wildfire resilience project types and how they can support your community:

• Prescribed and cultural burns
• Wildfire prevention training

Return to the Wildfire Resilience Toolkit for Municipalities 

Related toolkits

GMF offers additional toolkits to support municipalities facing different climate risks. 

• Flood Resilience Toolkit
• Heat Resilience Toolkit
• Community Facilities Toolkit

Glossary

Fuel-reduced buffer zone: A cleared or thinned area around structures to slow wildfire spread and reduce ignition risk

Defensible space: A managed zone around buildings that allows firefighters to defend against wildfires safely

Vegetation management: The process of pruning, thinning or removing plants to reduce fire fuel loads

Prescribed fire: A controlled burn used to reduce vegetation and wildfire risk safely

Topography integration: Designing buffer zones to align with natural land features like ridgelines and watercourses

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK): Indigenous knowledge systems that guide land stewardship, fire patterns and ecological resilience

FireSmart: A Canadian program offering best practices for wildfire prevention and community safety

Personal protective equipment (PPE): Safety gear used by crews during vegetation clearing and fire mitigation work.

Prescribed and cultural burns strengthen community resilience by reducing wildfire risk and restoring ecosystems. Prescribed burning or cultural burning involves the planned and controlled application of fire to specific land areas to manage vegetation, lower hazardous fuels, and improve habitat. These practices increase community resilience by reducing the likelihood of severe wildfires, supporting biodiversity, and sustaining Indigenous land stewardship.

For small and rural communities, prescribed burns are an affordable, rapid intervention that enhances safety while strengthening cultural ties. They also allow communities to proactively manage risk rather than relying solely on reactive firefighting, which is particularly important when rural and remote regions have less access to firefighting resources.

This guidance outlines key steps, best practices, costing information and case studies to help municipalities plan and deliver prescribed and cultural burn projects.

Key steps for successful implementation

• Plan collaboratively: Co-develop burn plans with Indigenous Knowledge holders, fire agencies¹, local firefighters and neighbouring communities

• Prepare a burn plan: Consider inputs (fuel, weather, geography), outputs (fire intensity, spread) and anticipated ecological impacts (wildlife, habitat, watershed)

• Assign leadership roles: Designate a certified burn boss and assign team roles for planning, operations, logistics, communications and monitoring

• Secure permits and approvals: Consult provincial/territorial authorities (e.g., wildfire services, parks management) and local fire services for compliance details

• Develop a smoke management plan: Outline timing, wind considerations, personal protective equipment (PPE) use and public notifications; include monitoring indicators and post-burn checks

• Keep team members informed: Hold a pre-burn briefing to confirm that all team members are aware of the burn plan, understand their roles and are aware of safety precautions

Best practices for design and delivery

• Follow ecological and seasonal cues: Braid meteorological data with Indigenous Knowledge (e.g., plant cycles, soil moisture, animal behaviour) to identify safe and effective burn windows

• Promote Indigenous leadership and co-management: Support Indigenous leadership and co-management throughout all project phases; advocate for the presence of cultural monitors during the burn to ensure that implementation follows traditional protocols

• Keep safety top of mind: Ensure all personnel are properly trained, equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and briefed on their specific roles and the communication plan

• Support communication: Provide advance notice of burn activities via letters, public notices, social media, and partnerships with local organizations to build public trust and understanding; build awareness of the purpose and impacts of a prescribed burn

Equity and community considerations

• Protect vulnerable residents: Connect with nearby residents who may be particularly vulnerable to smoke (e.g., older adults, people with respiratory illnesses) to develop clear smoke-communication plans (e.g., in-person outreach, community networks); provide PPE when feasible and use local community centres as clean-air shelters

• Communicate with a diversity of residents: Ensure that communications reach those without internet access (e.g., use posters, local radio, door-to-door info); create plain-language notices and translate into locally spoken languages

• Hire local and Indigenous contractors: Support local economic development through procuring local or Indigenous contractors and prioritizing workforce development in underemployed populations

Costing and budgeting information

Prescribed burns can cost $1,500–$8,000 per hectare, depending on site size, conditions and complexity.

Key cost drivers include equipment (e.g., drip torches, protective clothing, radios), transportation to and from remote sites, insurance and liability coverage, and post-burn monitoring and evaluation.

To help reduce overall costs:

• Select burn sites with clear access and minimal preparation needs

• Conduct burns in smaller phases and expanding as funding becomes available

• Form collaborative partnerships with wildfire agencies, training organizations and neighbouring communities to share resources, expertise and learnings

Case studies and lessons learned

Indigenous-led cultural burn restores a gathering site (Kluane First Nation, YT, 2023)

Kluane First Nation conducted a controlled cultural burn at Duke Meadow to rejuvenate an overgrown site, enabling the annual Yukon Handgames Championships. The project was led by Kluane citizens using Traditional Knowledge and local leadership, with support from the Yukon Wildland Fire Management team. The burn reduced hazardous vegetation, improved overall site safety and revitalized cultural practices tied to land stewardship.

Lesson learned: Collaborative planning that integrates Indigenous Knowledge and community priorities can simultaneously reduce wildfire risk, restore ecosystems and strengthen cultural identity.

Provincial partnership boosts local capacity to conduct a prescribed burn (Cook’s Ferry Indian Band, BC, 2023)

Cook’s Ferry Indian Band partnered with BC Wildfire Service to conduct a 150-hectare prescribed burn near Spence’s Bridge. The project aimed to lower wildfire risk for nearby communities by strategically reducing fuel loads and reintroducing fire into the ecosystem. Planning emphasized clear accountability and ongoing communication with external stakeholders to ensure safety and prevent future fire-related incidents.

Lesson learned: Partnerships with wildfire agencies can help small communities reduce risks. Success depends on transparent roles, continuous dialogue and shared responsibility throughout the process.

Prescribed burns as learning and capacity building opportunities (Saskatoon, SK, 2021)

The Meewasin Valley Authority conducted a five-acre prescribed burn at the Northeast Swale, a 300-hectare natural area in Saskatoon containing native grasslands, shrublands and wetlands. Supported by the Canadian Prairies Prescribed Fire Exchange (CPPFE), the burn served both ecological and educational objectives: reducing invasive shrubs and buildup of litter while providing hands-on training for new fire practitioners.

The event brought together Meewasin staff, municipal and academic partners, and volunteers from across Saskatchewan and Alberta, many of whom had completed CPPFE’s course, Introduction to Prescribed Fire in the Canadian Grassland Environment. The burn doubled as a live training opportunity, allowing participants to gain real-time experience with ignition, holding, and mop-up procedures under expert supervision.

Lesson learned: Integrating prescribed burns with structured training builds local capacity for safe, effective fire management while strengthening inter-agency collaboration and knowledge sharing across shared ecosystems.

*Note: The case studies included on this page are for informational purposes and were not supported by the Green Municipal Fund.

Additional resources

How to plan a burn (BC Wildfire Service) – This video guide provides a practical, step-by-step overview of how to safely plan and execute a prescribed burn in British Columbia. It covers key elements such as site selection, weather conditions, safety protocols, and coordination with local authorities to ensure effective and responsible fire use.

Traditional Ecological Fire Knowledge (Penticton Indian Band) – This case study provides guidance on integrating Traditional Knowledge into fire management approaches. It outlines implementing fuel reduction techniques, ensuring cultural protocols and safety, engaging communities through training, and conducting post-burn monitoring for adaptive management.

Prescribed fire factsheet (City of Saskatoon) – This factsheet outlines how prescribed fire is used as a land management tool to maintain healthy ecosystems and reduce wildfire hazards. It provides clear, accessible information for the public on benefits, safety measures and timing of burns in urban and natural areas.

Explore more wildfire resilience activities

Learn about other wildfire resilience project types and how they can support your community:

• Vegetative management and replacement
• Wildfire prevention training

Return to the Wildfire Resilience Toolkit for Municipalities

Related toolkits

GMF offers additional toolkits to support municipalities facing different climate risks. 

• Flood Resilience Toolkit
• Heat Resilience Toolkit
• Community Facilities Toolkit

Glossary

Prescribed burn: A planned fire conducted under controlled conditions to reduce hazardous fuels, improve ecosystem health and lower wildfire risk

Cultural burn: A fire intentionally set by Indigenous communities using Traditional Knowledge to restore landscapes, maintain cultural practices and support ecological balance

Burn plan: A detailed document outlining the objectives, methods, safety protocols and ecological considerations for conducting a prescribed or cultural burn

Burn boss: A certified individual responsible for overseeing the planning, execution and safety of a prescribed or cultural burn

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK): Indigenous knowledge systems based on generations of observation and interaction with the environment, used to guide land stewardship and fire practices

Smoke management plan: A strategy to minimize smoke impacts on communities, including timing, wind conditions, protective equipment and public communication

Cultural monitor: An Indigenous community member who ensures that cultural protocols are respected and followed during a burn

Clean air shelter: A designated indoor space with filtered air used to protect vulnerable residents from smoke exposure during burns or wildfires

Select resources

1. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-safety-canada/campaigns/wildfires/prov.html