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 Robert Wickson is a Partner at Discovery Economic Consulting, a consulting firm that provides expert testimony to the courts and other economic advice. He also continues to own and operate the business that paid his way through university, R.J. Wickson Janitorial Service.
As a business owner and active member of the community, Robert wants to find ways to harmonize sustainable economic development in a growing economy. According to Robert, "The question becomes 'How can we create a liveable community that allows our citizens to prosper?' The answer must include innovations and leadership from the business community." When did you become involved with BC Hydro's engagement initiatives?
When I was involved with the BC Chamber, I was asked to sit on the Energy Conservation & Efficiency (EC&E) Advisory Committee as the Chamber's representative. I continue to represent the interests of small business owners through my participation in the Rates Working Group. What are your top energy interests?
Conservation is extremely important, but my main concern is that the price of energy needs to be set appropriately. This has to involve more than just fiddling with rates. We need to be honest about what electricity is going to cost in the future so that we stop wasting it – which we do. What motivates you to engage with BC Hydro?
I want to contribute ideas to our sustainable future. There are not a lot of people who want to spend the time to put their ideas forward. If I can sit down and figure out a way to arrive at solutions that will help people in the future, then I should do it. I enjoy the challenge! What recommendations do you have for BC Hydro?
You need to engage the small business community in a much stronger way. By working with business associations, such as the BC Chamber of Commerce, you can teach small business owners what they can do to reduce demand and conserve energy. How do you encourage your employees to conserve?
I provide parking for bicycles but not for cars. I have five people working in my office, and only one of them drives to work. The rest either ride their bike, van pool or take the bus. What strengths do you bring to the engagement table?
I think I contribute a positive attitude toward getting the job done. I like to take new ideas and play with them. I've never uttered the phrase, "That can't be done," or ridiculed someone else's thoughts. What steps need to be taken to achieve a culture of conservation in British Columbia?
We need to get the message across that people don't have to change their lives drastically to become energy efficient – they just have to give more thought to what they do and how they do it. It's also crucial that we begin to realize that energy use comes at a cost to society. And this societal cost becomes even greater when we don't use energy efficiently. We just can't continue to encourage the levels of energy use we've condoned in the past.
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