AMO Policy Update – July 7, 2010 OPA PowerPledge Campaign

Challenge Campaign breaks through the 80% target!

A total of 83 communities, 49 local utilities and six Chambers of Commerce—representing over 80% of Ontarians—have so far committed to the Community Challenge. As of June 30th more than 100 000 pledges had been made on the OPA website. So get out there and shake the bushes, leave no community stone unturned—get more communities to sign up and join the cause. But the target is 100+ communities, so leave no stone unturned to make sure your residents have a chance to vie for Ontario’s community conservation bragging rights and your municipality has a chance to win great prizes.

Some bright idea from participating municipalities and LDCs:

• The City of Guelph is using Twitter and Facebook to encourage residents to take the Pledge and receive conservation tips. Follow their story at twitter.com/cityofguelph. 
    
• On July 16, Horizon Utilities is using Hamilton’s love affair with the Tiger Cats to promote the Power Pledge. Prizes of Tiger Cat “stuff” will go to some lucky game fans that fill out the Pledge. Sunil Bechar has also developed partnerships with the Ice Dogs hockey team and Boston Pizza in St. Catharines. And check out their on-line banner ad for PP on the Hamilton Spectator website.
     
• Bluewater Power recently sent out a special Power Pledge newsletter to a broad community audience announcing their partnership with the City of Sarnia and the Sarnia Lambton Chamber in support of the campaign. Great job.
     
• Two or three communities have turned the PP into a fun staff competition. By using the Confirmation Email as an entry form (either hard copy or forwarded email) they are able to get individuals and even different departments/buildings vying for small conservation-focused prizes. Works for businesses, too.
     
• If you are doing interesting or aggressive Power Pledge “things”, let the Team know at info@powerpledge.ca

AMO Contact:  Scott Vokey, Energy Services Coordinator, email: svokey@amo.on.ca, (416) 971-9856 ext. 357