possible. That’s where efficiencyPEI can help,” says Proud. “The province has been investing in energy-efficiency programs for Islanders for quite a while, and we are taking up the challenge to do even more to meet our climate targets.” Proud says that the government offers rebates on just about every type of energy upgrade—from energy-efficient refrigerators, toilets, and washing machines to heat pump installations (those that are installed by a registered contractor), as well as ENERGY STAR® -certified heating systems in your home—“which means real savings for Islanders who take part.” According to Proud, everyone is eligible— regardless of income—for all residential rebates. The province does offer specific low-income programs including Winter Warming, a free weatherization service provided to anyone with a family income of $50,000 or less. “We send a tradesperson to the home to complete weather-stripping, as well as caulking all the leaky areas of the home,” says Proud, adding that they will also install gaskets on most electrical outlets and switches, as well as a programmable thermostat and a low-flow showerhead. They’ll also supply the client with a voucher
to get a heating system tune-up. “This is all provided free of charge, and clients typically save approximately $250 in energy costs per year.” Another popular rebate is the Solar Electric Rebate Program. Solar energy can not only lower energy bills for Islanders, but also, solar incentives help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 500 tonnes annually, and create approximately 20 jobs in PEI's renewable energy sector. The solar rebate does require pre-approval, says Proud, but most other equipment rebates entail just a mail-in application. If you have questions about any of the rebate programs offered, Proud recommends checking out efficiencyPEI’s website at https://www.princeedwardisland. ca/en/topic/energy-efficiency. “Our staff is always ready to help answer all your questions.” Ultimately, Proud says that the program is about “reducing energy and trying to help Islanders save money. Energy efficiency is always the most cost-effective way to do that.” Looking into the new year, he says, “We’re going to be doing even more to make energy efficiency easier for Islanders, so stay tuned.”
We’re going to be doing even more to make energy Islanders, so stay tuned.” " efficiency easier for
- Mike Proud
Efficiency PEI 69 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown 902.620.3690 www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/top- ic/energy-efficiency
WINTER 2020 www.pei-living.ca
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