Features Residential
Horizon Utilities’ Home Assistance program surpasses 7500 participants

 
Since the program was launched in the summer of 2012, there have been close to 7500 program enrollments, more than 14,000,000 kWh have been saved annually and more than 500 refrigerators replaced, the utility said.
 
“Collaboration with our community partners was instrumental to the success of this program,” said Brian Smith, chief conservation officer at Horizon.
 
CityHousing Hamilton has been a primary participant in the program, and its tenants have benefitted, according Horizon Utilities.
 
“The program has allowed CityHousing Hamilton residents to receive upgrades of energy efficient products like lighting, fridges and air conditioners, resulting in significant electricity savings, while improving quality of life,” said Sean Botham, energy projects co-ordinator at CityHousing Hamilton. “These conservation measures are estimated to provide over $260,000 in annual electricity savings for CHH and tenants.”
 
The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) sponsors the program and Horizon Utilities has partnered with Honeywell to perform in-home energy assessments as well as the installation of energy-saving measures and advice on ways to save more energy for those who meet the criteria.
 
During an inspection, simple recommendations and upgrades are made on the spot and some participants may be eligible for a new, energy-efficient refrigerator at no cost to them, the utility noted.
 
The Home Assistance program will continue to offer free energy efficient upgrades until the end of December 2015.
 
To be eligible, customers must own or be a tenant of private or social housing that is no higher than three storeys and less than about 6400 sf. Renters must have approval from the owner and will need the housing provider to apply on their behalf. Participants must meet annual household income requirements.