Province Offers Bulbs, Coupons, Education at Energy Fair

The province is helping Berwick residents switch to energy-efficient lighting.

Conserve Nova Scotia will distribute about 8,000 compact fluorescent light bulbs at the Berwick Energy Fair on Saturday, June 16 at Berwick School from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The initiative is part of the Shared Atlantic Vision for Energy Efficiency (SAVE) program.

"The SAVE program is one way we're helping people in rural Nova Scotia switch to more efficient lighting," said Bill Dooks, Minister responsible for Conserve Nova Scotia. "Since April, Conserve Nova Scotia has been distributing 45,000 bulbs through various programs in partnership with municipal electrical utilities, regional development authorities and community not-for-profit groups."

Berwick Mayor John Prall said he was excited to team with Conserve Nova Scotian on the energy initiative.

"Together we can play a leadership role in saving energy and reducing our greenhouse gas emissions," said Mr. Prall. "This program is a great way for Berwick residents to help do their part."

Participants can also get $4-off coupons toward the purchase of four- and six-pack compact fluorescent light bulbs at local retailers. Participating businesses include: Palmer Home Hardware Building Centre, Fraser's PRO HomeCentre, Price Chopper, Berwick Building Supplies Ltd., Berwick Save Easy and Wilsons Pharmasave.
The province is providing a $2-per-bulb subsidy and participating retailers are matching the support. Coupons are valid until June 30.

Compact fluorescent lights use 75 per cent less energy, last up to 10 times longer, and can save about $40 in electricity costs over the lifetime of the bulb. Each compact fluorescent light can also reduce greenhouse-gas emissions by about one-quarter tonne.

The SAVE program is an initiative of the Council of Atlantic Premiers. During the four-province campaign, 97,000 compact florescent light bulbs will be distributed. Programs have been rolled out in Canso, Kentville, the Strait Highlands region, Lunenburg, Mahone Bay and Pictou County. The province has delivered more than 16 energy-efficient lighting programs in the past 18 months. For a complete list of current and past initiatives, visit www.conservens.ca/lightingprograms .