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Alberta government: Energy efficiency rebates provide rewards

In its inaugural year, the Government of Alberta says its energy efficiency rebate program has delivered more than 66,000 rebates to Albertan homeowners—worth more than $13 million—who have invested in environmental upgrades.

“The tremendous response in the program’s initial year demonstrates Albertans’ commitment to reducing their environmental impacts,” said Environment Minister Rob Renner. “Consumers have proven they have the power and desire to make positive and lasting environmental impacts through their day-to-day energy decisions.”

More than 29,000 rebates have been issued for home energy evaluations. ENERGY STAR-rated clothes washers are the next most popular rebate, with more than 21,000 issued, followed by furnaces and boilers which account for more than 11,600 rebates ranging from $400 to $600. One hundred and thirty-one high-efficiency new homes have been built, including 32 that qualified for a rebate of $10,000, the highest amount available.

“Our homes represent a significant portion of our personal environmental footprint,” said Simon Knight, president and CEO of Climate Change Central, the non-profit organization which administers the program on behalf of the Government of Alberta. “Albertans are demonstrating that they want to reduce their carbon emissions and save money.”

In April 2009, the province committed $36 million over three years to help Albertans reduce their greenhouse gas emissions through the consumer rebate program. Alberta’s provincial rebate program will continue with minor changes as a result of the federal government’s decision to curtail its ecoEnergy Retrofit Program. The government says Albertans can continue to access the provincial rebate program by contacting Climate Change Central online at www.climatechangecentral.com.

June 4, 2010  By Alberta