Faith Groups Learn Energy Efficiency

Religious groups can learn on Saturday, June 24, how to make their houses of worship more energy efficient.

The Department of Energy and Clean Nova Scotia are teaming up to offer an interfaith symposium on energy efficiency. The session will help faith groups cut their energy costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"Religious groups in Nova Scotia face many energy efficiency challenges including retrofitting heritage buildings and rising energy prices," said Energy Minister Bill Dooks. "This workshop will help these groups learn the most effective ways to take control of their energy costs."

The full-day symposium will feature presentations on the hidden costs of energy use -- like air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions -- retrofitting strategies, tips, financial advice, and how to engage youth groups in energy efficiency and climate change activity within their communities. A group that specializes in energy audits for churches will also participate in the event.

"We want people of all religions to come and talk about the energy issues related to their buildings, whether it be a church, temple, mosque or synagogue," said Clean Nova Scotia event organizer, Daisy Kidston. "Energy use and the economic, social and environmental issues related to energy affect us all, regardless of religion."

The symposium will be held at St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church, 2267 Brunswick St., Halifax. The one-day session begins at 9 a.m and is $25 per person or $50 for a group of three. Interested church groups must register by contacting Clean Nova Scotia at 902-424-6684.