General Information
(Creation Year & Reason)

The Program was initiated in 1997 to enhance the credibility of the Canadian Electricity Industry through visible environmental performance improvement

Initiator(s)

Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) All 27 members of CEA's Corporate Utility category making up 95% of electrical generation and transmission in Canada participate as a requirement of membership

Objectives(s)

Although the primary goal is to enhance the credibility of the Canadian electricity sector, this could not occur without achieving the objective of improving environmental performance. The ECR Program aims to achieve "continual improvement" and sustainable development. In addition, the Program is designed to contribute directly to corporate profitability through a variety of initiatives such as reduced waste, recycling or improved efficiency and position members to achieve due diligence, a more effective marketing strategy, lower risk and reduced costs.

Timeframes and Milestones

Progress Reports are required by 30 April each year from participants and signed off by CEO. The Progress Reports and then rolled up with an Annual Industry Report published before the following calendar year end. The ECR Program also requires EMS consistent with ISO 14001 for generation by year 2000 and transmission/distribution by year 2003.

Implementation Process

There are four principles (specific performance measures under each):

• Improve efficiency in use of resources

• Reduce adverse environmental impacts

• Increase accountability

• Improve employee knowledge and skill base

Monitoring Process & Parties

The EMS development is audited by third party.

Progress Reports providing status of EMS and indicators measured is verified by third party and report to an independent Public Advisory Panel of seven eminent members who were selected from outside the electricity industry and from across Canada.

Success in Achieving Stated Objectives

The Canadian Electricity industry was complimented by the Public Advisory Panel for undertaking the initiative and the progress achieved in its first year. The Panel identified the need for a number of improvements. All have been introduced into the 1998 reporting year. Another 1-2 years is required before progress in achieving stated objectives are adequately measured.

Public Education & Information Components

The Annual Industry Report is published at the end of each year and distributed to a wide range of constituents such as government officials, media, interest groups, industry, members, etc.

Replication Potential

High. The program is relatively inexpensive, can be customized for any industry, country or size of organization. The key is the ability to facilitate such a commitment and ensure it is practical and cost effective, so that participants can see an acceptable return on their investment.

Mechanisms for Improvement

The Public Advisory Panel is a critical part of the process. In addition, the Program Manager is able to access senior executives to solicit their support while at the same time utilize key technical experts to develop and put forward solutions and proposals for improvement

Contacts for Further Information