Energy Savings Are On The Way
Do-it-yourself energy savings kits are on the way for the first of 6,000 draw winners in the provincial Keep the Heat fuel rebate program.
The kits are part of a pilot program to help Nova Scotians learn more about energy efficiency and try a number of low-cost and easy-to-use products that will conserve energy in the home.
"The rebate was important this year for those struggling with a 40 per cent increase in the cost of home heating fuel," said Energy Minister Cecil Clarke. "But the rising cost of all forms of energy is a global trend that won't likely reverse. We all need to look at ways we can reduce our energy use, both to save money and improve the environment."
Each energy savings kit contains products to help consumers protect against drafts and heat loss, use less hot water, and reduce electricity consumption, including: -- two LED nightlights, -- three compact fluorescent light bulbs (11, 13 and 23 watts) -- a water conservation kit (includes one low-flow showerhead, two tap aerators, one toilet water-saving bladder, and leak detection tablets); and -- a weatherstripping kit (includes "v" weatherstripping, foam insulators for electrical switches, door pads, and a storm window kit).
Kits also include a booklet entitled Sealing, Caulking and Weatherstripping: An Illustrated Guide, for those who want to take extra steps to insulate their homes, as well as information on the federal EnerGuide for Houses program, which provides financial assistance for people to assess and improve the energy rating of their homes.
There will be a follow-up survey with some people who receive kits to evaluate the success of the pilot program.
"We want to find out which products people tried, which ones they liked the best, whether they found them easy to use and if they intend to take more steps to save energy," said Mr. Clarke. "We will use the information to build and improve upon future programs."
The first 2,000 kits are being mailed now. There will be two more draws for the remaining 4,000. The last draw will be held after March 31 -- the deadline for applications to the Keep the Heat program.
The energy savings kits contain easy instructions for each item. People seeking more information about the kits, or information and advice on energy efficiency in general can call the toll-free EnerInfo line at 1-800-670-4636 (from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
The EnerInfo line is funded by the Department of Energy and delivered in partnership with Clean Nova Scotia.