Use a Little Energy to Save Even More

With just a few small changes, Nova Scotia homeowners can use less energy, save money and help the environment.

This week the Department of Energy is promoting some low-cost, effective steps that Nova Scotians can follow to reduce energy use in their homes -- saving them money on their electric bills and reducing air emissions directly linked with energy consumption.

Almost 120,000 households in Halifax and Cape Breton regional municipalities will receive a mail-out containing energy tips. The mail-out will also contain foam electrical outlet and switch plate insulators to get them started on reducing drafts in their homes.

"Use a little energy to save even more, it's that simple," said Energy Minister Cecil Clarke. "And by installing the inexpensive foam electrical outlet and switch plate insulators, homeowners can see how easy it is to be more energy efficient."

The Department of Energy website offers suggestions on how Nova Scotians can make a few simple changes in their homes to use less energy, save money and help the environment. Among the tips are:

• Replace regular light bulbs with energy efficient compact fluorescent bulbs. These bulbs use 75 per cent less energy and last about 10 times longer while still providing the same light output as a standard bulb. Replacing a 60-watt bulb with a 15- watt compact fluorescent bulb can save $45 over its lifespan.
• Install a low-flow showerhead. If a household takes two five- minute showers a day, the savings could be $100 a year.
• Turn down the water heater thermostat. For every five degrees Celsius reduction, hot water costs will decrease by about 10 per cent.
• Install quality weather stripping around exterior doors, windows and attic hatches. Keeping out drafts will save energy and make homes more comfortable.

Being more energy efficient will also have a positive impact on the environment by helping to reduce air emissions released during electricity generation.

"Currently the Nova Scotia government is working with the federal government to promote the One-Tonne Challenge, which is aimed at reducing every Canadian's amount of greenhouse gas emissions," said Mr. Clarke. "This mail-out demonstrates our commitment to this program and our encouragement for Nova Scotians to reduce energy consumption at home." To learn more about energy efficiency visit the Department of Energy's website at www.gov.ns.ca/energy.