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N.S. and Efficiency Nova Scotia partner for energy-efficiency programs effective April 1, 2011
April 4, 2011
The Nova Scotia government has reached an agreement-in-principle with Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation to deliver energy-efficiency programs to Nova Scotians.
“Government is committed to investing in programs that help Nova Scotians become more energy efficient and save money and the environment,” said Charlie Parker, energy minister. “The focus continues to be on funding programs that assist homeowners to make important energy-saving upgrades with emphasis on low-income homeowners and renters, who will benefit the most from monthly energy savings.”
April 4, 2011 By Alyssa Dalton
Effective April 1, Efficiency Nova Scotia will administer the Residential Energy Affordability Program, New Homes Performance Plus Program, Solar Rebate for Residential, Commercial and Industrial, EnerGuide, and the EnerInfo Toll-free Line. The toll-free number remains 1-800-670-4636. Efficiency Nova Scotia will also develop new energy-efficiency programs, which may include replacements to improve existing programs.
According to the government, participants will see no change in service with the wind-down of Conserve Nova Scotia, effective March 31. The province will provide funding to Efficiency Nova Scotia to deliver programs, with details to be announced in the spring budget.
“We are committed to provide energy-efficiency programming because it saves Nova Scotians money, stimulates the economy and creates jobs,” said Parker. “This is in keeping with the commitment to make life better and more affordable for Nova Scotians.”
“What’s most important for Nova Scotians is that come April 1, Efficiency Nova Scotia will be the one-stop shop for all home or business energy savings programs, regardless of the energy type used,” said Allan Crandlemire, interim CEO of Efficiency Nova Scotia. “One of the key reasons that Efficiency Nova Scotia was established was that Nova Scotians wanted one, independent organization in charge of energy- efficiency and conservation programs.”
The government has announced it is discontinuing one program, the Zero-Interest Loan Program for EnerGuide Participants, because of limited interest. EnerGuide-qualified homeowners have until June 30 to submit applications for pre-approval for a loan. Once approved, homeowners will have 18 months from the initial audit to complete the work, submit final audit results and receipts to receive loans. The Department of Energy and Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations will administer the program until the last pre-approved loans are processed.
One-time Conserve Nova Scotia programs, such as the Greening the School Bus, Green Driver, Class 8 Trucking Efficiency, Hybrid Vehicle Technology Demonstration Project and the Fuel Efficient Taxi Pilot Project within Halifax Regional Municipality, will end March 31, as scheduled.
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