More Nova Scotians will be able to lower their energy bills with increased government support for home efficiency improvements.
Premier Stephen McNeil announced today, March 31, an additional $4 million for the current HomeWarming program, and $2 million to create a new program for affordable rental units and non-profit housing.
“This will reduce the energy bills of those who need it most,” said Premier McNeil. “This investment doesn’t just help people save money, it helps us all by lowering our greenhouse gas emissions and creating jobs in communities across the province.”
The HomeWarming program provides eligible low-income Nova Scotians with a home energy assessment and energy efficiency upgrades at no charge to the homeowner. Upgrades can include draft-proofing, insulation and other efficiency options.
Homeowners, like Aline and David Keddy of Dartmouth, can expect to save up to $965 on their energy bills every year.
“Saving about half the cost of your heating bill really is a big thing because when you’re on a fixed income every penny counts,” said Mrs. Keddy. “When you can sit in your home and be comfortable, you can’t help but be happier.”
Government is also committing $1.5 million to fund the development and delivery of a new program to support First Nations homes.
These investments are expected to improve energy efficiency in an estimated 800 extra households over the next two years.
Efficiency Nova Scotia delivers the HomeWarming program for households that do not use electric heat, on behalf of government.
“Additional support for energy efficiency will help improve the lives of even more Nova Scotians by making their homes more comfortable, more affordable places to live,” said EfficiencyOne CEO Stephen MacDonald. “We look forward to working with our partners across the province in the coming months to bring these benefits to even more families.”
People in homes heated by electricity can also apply to the HomeWarming program. Clean Nova Scotia delivers the program for electrically heated homes on behalf of Nova Scotia Power.
Since 2015, about 3,500 homes have received full energy efficiency upgrades.
For more information about the HomeWarming program visit homewarming.ca.
Source: Release