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Developing a basic plan

The suggested basic process for developing an Aboriginal community energy plan is outlined below. It is very similar to strategic planning.
 

Step 1 Identify a champion and team to lead the community through the planning process.
Step 2 Create a mission statement or vision for the plan. Define the high-level goals and objectives the community hopes to achieve with the plan in conservation and generation activities.
Step 3 Conduct an analysis of current energy usage to create a baseline for measurement and evaluation. Who is using energy and how are they using it? What costs are associated with this energy use? What current resources are available to reduce energy use?
Step 4 Identify and evaluate the energy development opportunities available to the community. What resources are available to the community (e.g., expertise, materials, money, etc.)? Are partnerships with other interested parties available?
Step 5

Create and implement an action plan with programs and initiatives that address short, medium and long-term objectives. The outcomes should be SMART – Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-based. Implement the plan.
Step 6

Measure and evaluate outcomes/results on a regular basis. Report the results to the community.
Step 7 Review and revise the plan as necessary.


For this process to be successful, the members of your community must be engaged and involved throughout.

You will also need to create detailed feasibility studies and business plans for the individual projects and programs that make up your community energy plan.