Communities trying energy conservation

By Greg Plain

TORONTO –The Ontario Power Authority (OPA), together with Minister of Aboriginal Affairs David Zimmer, announced in August that 12 communities have been chosen to participate in the first year of the saveONenergy Aboriginal Conservation Program, the first program of its kind in Ontario.

This program provides customized conservation services to help First Nation communities, including remote and northern communities, reduce their electricity consumption and improve home comfort.

Chief Roger Thomas of Munsee-Delaware says the community is quite happy that they were chosen for the program.

“We will be learning about conservation of energy with our citizens and hopefully saving dollars on the Nation’s energy bills by switching lighting in our community assets.”

In its inaugural year, the program attracted significant interest – with more than 30 First Nation communities applying to participate. Those participating in the first year are: Remote Keewayin, Wunnimin Lake, Near North Moose Cree, Pic River, Michipicoten, South Munsee-Delaware, Beausoleil, Walpole Island, Saugeen, Nawash, Thessalon and Nipissing First Nation.

Members in participating communities will have opportunity to work with a certified energy auditor, who will recommend energy-saving measures based on an assessment of their homes. These measures could include ENERGY STAR CFL light bulbs, smart power bars, hot water tank wrap and pipe insulation, efficient showerheads and efficient faucet aerators, as well as block heater timers, programmable thermostat or attic, wall and/or basement insulation. Eligible businesses and facilities can receive assessments for their lighting and water-heating systems as part of the program.

The OPA encourages communities to participate in the second year of the program. All First Nation communities are eligible to apply to the program.

Details will be available at http://www.aboriginalenergy.ca/acp/event-calendar.