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NB 731
June 8, 2006
FREDERICTON (CNB) - Public response to the New Brunswick Existing Homes Energy Efficiency Upgrades Program has been very positive.
"We have been very pleased with public response to the New Brunswick Existing Homes Energy Efficiency Upgrades Program," said Energy Minister Brenda Fowlie. "In only three-and-a-half months well over 600 home-energy audits have been completed. The people of New Brunswick have clearly demonstrated that they appreciate the upgrades program, and welcome such an initiative."
The upgrades program utilizes a home-energy evaluation system that provides homeowners with detailed reports - including recommendations for concrete efficiency improvements - on the energy performance of their homes.
Either an interest-free loan or an HST rebate is available through Efficiency NB to help homeowners make the required energy renovations.
"With the upgrades program the goal is to triple or quadruple the undertaking of energy-efficiency renovations by homeowners in New Brunswick, and it is clear that we will meet, and likely exceed that goal," Fowlie said.
Although a federal grant through the EnerGuide for Houses program is no longer available to homeowners, Efficiency NB has made a commitment to ensure that home-energy evaluations will continue to be accessible for New Brunswick homeowners.
"The province has the oldest housing stock in the country, so the value of independent, professional advice offered by energy advisors to homeowners is essential if we want to achieve significant, measurable and lasting energy savings," Fowlie said.
In addition to the upgrades program, Efficiency NB is active in developing new energy-efficient programs which will be announced later in the year.
Efficiency NB offers sound advice and practical solutions to help New Brunswickers use energy more efficiently, make better energy choices, manage energy expenses, and lessen the impact of energy use on the environment.
06/06/08
EDITOR'S NOTE: For information on the New Brunswick Existing Homes Energy Efficiency Upgrades Program, call 1-866-643-8833 (toll-free) or 506-643-7826. MEDIA CONTACT: Jill Whitehouse, director of marketing and communications, Efficiency NB, 506-643-7831.
06/06/08
