New Project Helps Mi'kmaq Communities, Households Reduce Energy Use
The province is partnering with Efficiency Nova Scotia and Mi'kmaq leaders to help communities use energy better and reduce energy costs in Mi'kmaq households.
Premier Darrell Dexter joined Chief Gerard Julian and Stephen MacDonald, chief operating officer for Efficiency Nova Scotia, in Paqtnkek First Nation today, June 5, to launch the Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Residential Direct Install Project. The new program commits $1 million total from the province and Efficiency Nova Scotia, over the next year, to help Mi'kmaq communities become more energy efficient.
"Energy efficiency is a vital component of the province's energy plan to ensure the lowest, fairest power rates," said Premier Dexter. "Energy not used is the cheapest form of energy. We all have a role to play in reducing the amount of energy used in Nova Scotia.
"Through partnerships like the one announced today, we can take care of our environment and help Nova Scotians save money over the long term."
The collaborative effort with the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Chiefs, supports training, community engagement, data collection and installing energy efficiency products in Mi'kmaq homes.
"This program will help our communities to gain a better understanding of how we use energy and what can be done to ensure a more environmentally responsible tomorrow," said Chief Julian of Paqtnkek First Nation. "As the premier said, everyone has a role to play in energy conservation and the aboriginal community is pleased to do its part."
"Investing in energy efficiency helps communities in so many ways," said Mr. MacDonald. "Not only does it give people an opportunity to save money, it provides employment, grows the economy and benefits the environment, something we know is especially important to First Nations communities."
Mi'kmaq community households can have energy-efficiency products installed at no cost.
Energy-efficiency company Sustainable Housing will train community members to organize the installation of energy efficient products in all 13 Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq communities.
They will replace incandescent bulbs with compact florescent lights, old nightlights with LEDs and install kitchen and bathroom fauce aerators, low-flow showerheads and wraps on electric hot water tanks. They will also insulate exposed water pipes and give people information to help them use energy better.
The installers will also collect data to ensure future energy efficiency plans continue to meet community needs.
The project began in May with a two-day training session in Pictou Landing and installations there and in Paqtnkek. The training and installation in the other Mi'kmaq communities are expected to be finished this year.