A one-time councillor and mayor in the community of Oliver, Hart Buckendahl‘s passion extends far beyond the local government council chamber. Mr. Buckendhal has made it a priority in his life to educate people about energy efficiency.

For 21 years Mr. Buckendahl championed the need to reduce electricity consumption, and educated consumers by performing home energy audits, installing water saver kits and recycling inefficient fridges. 

The owner of a construction company, he was an early adopter of technology that brings higher levels of energy efficiency into new and existing homes.

In 1988, Mr. Buckendahl began working with West Kootenay Power – now Fortis BC – and enthusiastically publicized energy-saving tips on radio, TV, home improvement shows and door-to-door.

His tireless efforts to bring Compact Florescent Lights to greater use by consumers resulted in sales jumping from 5,000 to 50,000 units annually, and effected a significant transformation from incandescent lights in 2003.

Mr. Buckendahl has also served on numerous local boards, and was an instructor and supporter of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets and Scout Movement.

He was elected to Oliver town council as a councillor and subsequently served two terms as Mayor.