Nova Scotia ranks in top 25 jurisdictions for energy efficiency savings in Canada and USA benchmarking report

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 8, 2022 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk,NS – Efficiency Canada’s recent report: Benchmarking Canadian province and American state energy efficiency program savings and spending, released June 6, 2022, has ranked Nova Scotia among the top 25 jurisdictions. This is the second year for the Report, which compares Canadian province and American state energy efficiency program savings and spending. 

Nova Scotia was one of only 2 Canadian provinces that ranked in the top 25 jurisdictions for incremental electricity savings, ranking 20^th. Nova Scotia also ranked 10^th for program spending and 17th for electricity savings targets.

“Energy efficiency plays a key role in helping Nova Scotia meet its net-zero commitments. It lowers electricity bills at a critical time and supports local jobs and businesses,” says Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO of EfficiencyOne. “Nova Scotians have embraced energy efficiency and are ready to do even more.”

The Report benchmarks data from the 2021 American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy’s State Scorecard and the 2021 Canadian Provincial Energy Efficiency Scorecard which notes Nova Scotia’s strong energy savings performance and high per capita spending on Indigenous programs (highest in Canada) and low-income programs (second highest in Canada).

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, has a proven track record of success in designing and delivering resource efficiency programs and services for homes, businesses, and large industrial customers.

In March 2022 EfficiencyOne filed a new 3-year energy reduction plan – or Demand Side Management Plan (Plan) – to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (UARB) for approval.

The Plan will help Nova Scotians lower their electricity bills by reducing their energy use, while helping the province meet its net-zero commitments under the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act.

“Overall, the Plan will lower electricity bills by over $540 million for Nova Scotia’s families and businesses, support 5,300 jobs across the province, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 2 million tonnes,” says MacDonald. “We are confident that we have the right tools in Nova Scotia – new climate-focused legislation, strong energy efficiency programs, and Nova Scotians passionate about making changes – to get us to net-zero and to continue to be a leading jurisdiction.”

“Nova Scotia is a national leader in the fight against climate change. We are taking big steps forward towards sustainable prosperity – this includes our commitment to having 80 percent of our electricity needs filled by renewable energy by 2030. We are pleased to see our bold actions reflected in Nova Scotia’s ranking in this report,” says Tory Rushton, Minister of Natural Resources and Renewables.

You can read the full Report here: https://www.efficiencycanada.org/comparison/

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, offers advice, project support and financial incentives to help consumers reduce their electricity use, which in turn avoids the cost of building new power generation and transmission lines. Over the last 10 years, investments in energy efficiency programs have saved Nova Scotians more than $1 billion in energy costs and cut greenhouse gas emissions by 24%. Learn more at www.efficiencyone.ca.

For more information, contact:

Janet Tobin
Communications Lead
902-499-6494
jtobin@efficiencyns.ca

Nova Scotians saving over $1 billion in energy costs through energy efficiency, says EfficiencyOne 2021 Annual Report

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 29, 2022 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk,NS – EfficiencyOne, the non-profit supplier of energy efficiency and greenhouse gas mitigation services and operator of Canada’s first energy efficiency utility, Efficiency Nova Scotia, released its 2021 Annual Report. The report details EfficiencyOne’s 2021 performance and results, and highlights the important contributions that energy efficiency has made in achieving the province’s climate action goals.

In 2021, EfficiencyOne continued to help even more Nova Scotians reduce their electricity use saving over $1 billion in energy costs – including over $258 million for low-income homeowners and tenants; contributing to 24% of the province’s overall greenhouse gas emission reductions; engaging over 21,000 students through the Green Schools Nova Scotia program; and, completing over 236 projects in Mi’kmaw communities.

“In 2021 we had to pivot the way we work to keep customers safe, ensure Nova Scotians had access to efficiency services, and modify our approach to address interruptions to our programs and services,” says Stephen MacDonald, EfficiencyOne President and Chief Executive Officer. “As we learn how to live with COVID-19, EfficiencyOne remains resilient and committed to helping ensure everyone can access and benefit from energy efficiency.”

In spring 2021 EfficiencyOne partnered with Natural Resources Canada to deliver the Canada Greener Homes Grant, one of only two provinces in Canada that will co-deliver the program with the federal government. To date, more than 10,000 Nova Scotians have registered for our Home Energy Assessment Program, which qualifies them to participate in Greener Homes.

“Administering the Canada Greener Homes Grant through Efficiency Nova Scotia makes it easy for Nova Scotians to take advantage of up to $5,000 in grants offered through the program,” adds MacDonald. “We are excited to be able to help make investing in energy efficiency even more affordable, to even more Nova Scotians.”

The report includes EfficiencyOne’s 2021 financial statements, along with details on how EfficiencyOne and its partners continued to support climate action across the province.

You can read EfficiencyOne’s 2021 Annual Report here: https://www.efficiencyone.ca/impact/annual-report/  

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, has a proven track record of success in designing and delivering resource efficiency programs and services for homes, businesses, and large industrial customers. EfficiencyOne has received national recognition for its high electricity and heating fuel savings achievements, as well as its low-income services and innovative Indigenous programs. Learn more at www.efficiencyone.ca.

EfficiencyOne files new 3-year plan to reduce electricity costs for Nova Scotians and help meet net-zero climate commitments

EfficiencyOne files new 3-year plan to reduce electricity costs for Nova Scotians and help meet net-zero climate commitments

For immediate release

March 11, 2022 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS – EfficiencyOne, the nonprofit administrator of Efficiency Nova Scotia, has put forward a new 3-year energy reduction plan – or Demand Side Management Plan (Plan) – to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board (UARB) for approval. The Plan would come into effect on January 1, 2023.

The Plan will help Nova Scotians lower their electricity bills by reducing their energy use, while helping the province meet its net-zero commitments under the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act.

Overall, the Plan will lower electricity bills by over $540 million for Nova Scotia’s families and businesses, support 5,300 jobs across the province, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 2 million tonnes.

The Plan will deliver more Efficiency Nova Scotia programs to more Nova Scotians, with $35 million to help low-income Nova Scotians, including renters, live more comfortably in their homes; $7 million to help Mi’kmaw communities reduce electricity costs and improve comfort while supporting local job creation; and $20 million to help small businesses on their path to recovery.

Before developing the Plan, EfficiencyOne listened to Nova Scotians, surveying over 1,400 homeowners and renters, and 360 businesses and organizations, and meeting with regulatory stakeholders, business groups, government officials, community organizations and environmental groups.

Overwhelmingly, Nova Scotians said they support programs that reduce electricity costs and shrink Nova Scotia’s carbon footprint.

“Over the past ten years, Nova Scotians have spoken with their actions by making a variety of energy efficiency improvements. You’ve told us that reducing electricity demand is the best way to lower energy costs and reduce the impact of climate change,” said Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO, EfficiencyOne. “Energy efficiency, and the transition to renewable electricity, are key elements in achieving Nova Scotia’s climate goals.”

The Plan also includes:

• Industry training and support to ensure all Nova Scotians have access to skilled trades and qualified products to complete upgrades and renovations.
• Youth engagement activities, and training to improve diversity and inclusion in the energy efficiency industry.
• New supports to ready the residential construction market for advanced building codes.
• Free installation of even more energy-saving products, including occupancy sensors, lighting controls and smart thermostats.
• Expanded rebate offerings for businesses of all sizes, including more opportunities to save instantly in-store.
• Performance-based incentives to encourage large energy users to achieve higher electricity savings.
• Managed services and incentives to help industrial facilities complete complex, multi-year projects and achieve higher electricity savings.
• Continued access to efficiency expertise and support, including more virtual resources, guides, and tools.

Rate Impact

The Plan will see energy efficiency investments increase from the current level of around $40 million a year to $57 million a year. The higher investment is more than offset by the savings ratepayers receive and helps offset other rate pressures by reducing overall energy use.

EfficiencyOne estimates that the Plan could increase electricity bills by approximately $2 a month, starting in 2023, but customers will save far more – on average $5 a month.

“Our new 3-year plan is in lockstep with the Province of Nova Scotia’s commitment to net-zero. It will increase efficiency programs available to residents and businesses, empowering them to reduce their electricity use and save money at a time when it’s very much needed,” said MacDonald.

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, has a proven track record of success in designing and delivering resource efficiency programs and services for homes, businesses, and large industrial customers. To date, EfficiencyOne has achieved more than $1.4 billion in energy savings and contributed 25% of Nova Scotia’s GHG emission reductions in the last 10 years. Learn more at efficiencyone.ca

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For more information, contact:

Janet Tobin
Communication Lead
902-499-6494
jtobin@efficiencyns.ca

Nova Scotia Power Should Pause System Access Charge Proposal and Consult Nova Scotians

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 31, 2022 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS— EfficiencyOne is asking that Nova Scotia Power pause its proposed System Access Charge until they have consulted with Nova Scotians and the solar industry. 

Nova Scotia Power’s recent General Rate Application filed on January 27, 2022, includes proposed changes to the net metering program including the introduction of a System Access Charge of $8/kW/month for net metering customers. The proposal will, and already has, caused unnecessary uncertainty and disruption to Nova Scotians exploring solar PV systems for their homes, and the solar industry across the province.  

“Nova Scotians have embraced solar as part of the immediate action required to address the climate crisis”, says Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO of EfficiencyOne, the non-profit operator of Efficiency Nova Scotia. “Now is not the time to create barriers”. 

The demand for solar installations is at an all time high. The SolarHomes program has helped nearly 5,000 homes install solar PV systems since it was launched in 2018 and the number of companies registered as solar installers has risen from 13 to nearly 80.  

In a recent White Paper, 2050: A Net-Zero Carbon Nova Scotia, EfficiencyOne noted that the current institutional and regulatory framework in Nova Scotia predates the climate emergency and is not aligned with achievement of provincial net-zero. Accelerating progress toward net-zero will require a holistic approach in which energy efficiency, the shift to electricity derived from non fossil based systems, and the growth of the renewable energy supply are achieved together.  

“We must continue to encourage all Nova Scotians to do their part and we must ensure that the infrastructure and supports are in place to help Nova Scotians achieve the targets set out in the province’s Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act” says MacDonald.

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, has a proven track record of success in designing and delivering resource efficiency programs and services for homes, businesses, and large industrial customers. To date, EfficiencyOne has achieved more than $1.4 billion in energy savings and contributed 25% of Nova Scotia’s GHG emission reductions in the last 10 years. Learn more at efficiencyone.ca

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For more information, contact:

Janet Tobin
Communication Lead
902-499-6494
jtobin@efficiencyns.ca

EfficiencyOne launches consultation on next three-year efficiency plan

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 18, 2021 – Halifax/Kjipuktuk, NS— EfficiencyOne is asking Nova Scotians for their views on the energy efficiency programs and services it offers. Feedback will help in developing the organization’s next three-year electricity efficiency plan, which will be filed with the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board in late February 2022.

“A lot has changed since we filed our last plan,” says EfficiencyOne Communications Lead, Janet Tobin. “It’s clear that we need to act urgently to address the climate crisis, but at the same time many Nova Scotians are worried about rising costs and the ongoing impacts of COVID-19.”

EfficiencyOne is the non-profit administrator of Efficiency Nova Scotia, and offers advice, project support and financial incentives to help consumers reduce their electricity use, which in turn avoids the cost of building new power generation and transmission lines. Over the last 10 years, investments in energy efficiency programs have saved Nova Scotians more than $1.4 billion in energy costs and cut greenhouse gas emissions by 25%.

New provincial climate legislation, the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act, sets a target for Nova Scotia to achieve 80% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The 2021 Canadian Provincial Energy Efficiency Scorecard, released today, notes that increasing energy savings,  reducing overall demand, makes hitting this renewable target easier and delivers local benefits that renewable imports do not, including customer bill savings and local job creation. To meet that goal and make electricity more affordable, the 2023-2025 electricity efficiency plan needs to set significantly higher savings targets.

“It’s important that we hear from many different Nova Scotians in designing our next 3-year plan,” says Tobin. “A successful path forward includes designing programs from which everyone can equitably benefit.”

Consultation begins today, November 18. The online survey will be conducted by Narrative Research through email, social media and the Efficiency Nova Scotia website.

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, has a proven track record of success in designing and delivering resource efficiency programs and services for homes, businesses, and large industrial customers. To date, EfficiencyOne has achieved more than $1.4 billion in energy savings and contributed 25% of Nova Scotia’s GHG emission reductions in the last 10 years. Learn more at efficiencyone.ca

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For more information, contact:

Janet Tobin
Communication Lead
902-499-6494
jtobin@efficiencyns.ca

Op-Ed: A transition to net-zero is within reach for Nova Scotia

World leaders, diplomats, business representatives, and environmentalists from almost 200 countries are gathering in Glasgow, Scotland, for the 26th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, or COP26. Countries, including Canada, have set ambitious targets to achieve net-zero emissions by the year 2050 to limit global warming to well below 2 C, preferably to 1.5 C. 

Here at home, the recently introduced Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act recognizes climate change as a global emergency requiring urgent action and sets 28 goals, including a commitment to achieve net-zero by 2050.

Some have called COP26 the last best hope to mitigate the devastating effects of climate change. Nova Scotia is expected to experience more frequent and intensive storms, rising sea levels, storm surges, coastal erosion and flooding. The continued increase in global temperatures will reduce biodiversity and degrade our forest and marine ecosystems.

While Nova Scotia has made progress in reducing emissions — down 30 per cent since 2005 — a challenging path lies ahead and there is no single action that will get us to net-zero.

While Nova Scotia has made progress in reducing emissions — down 30 per cent since 2005 — a challenging path lies ahead and there is no single action that will get us to net-zero.

Accelerating progress toward net-zero will require a holistic approach in which energy efficiency, the shift to clean electricity generation, widespread electrification, and the adoption of renewable energy outside of electricity all happen together. This integrated approach requires systems that predate the climate emergency, like the institutional and regulatory framework for planning, producing, and distributing electricity, to align with the soon-to-be legislated goal of net-zero.

Recently, EfficiencyOne, in collaboration with Ralph Torrie of Torrie Smith Associates, authored a white paper, 2050: Net-Zero Carbon Nova Scotia, to promote discussion of the strategies, technologies, and solutions available to the province to address these challenges. It identifies five strategic actions that must be taken:

1. Continue to invest in aggressive energy efficiency programs;
2. Adopt new building codes and standards for zero-emissions buildings;
3. Accelerate the adoption of heat pumps for space and water heating;
4. Fast-track the deployment of electric vehicle chargers in buildings, and increase electric vehicle purchases;
5. Grow building-level distributed renewable energy and storage.

These actions focus on technologies that are commercially available today and can be rapidly scaled up. This is no small challenge and will require new partnerships, innovative financing, the growth of local businesses and supply chains, training to expand Nova Scotia’s workforce, and the education, engagement and support of all Nova Scotians. At the same time, research, development and commercialization efforts will be required to bring on the next generation of technologies needed to maintain the momentum toward net-zero and to tackle the decarbonization of sectors where technological options are still in development.

Most importantly, the transition to net-zero must be just and equitable. To succeed, the transition must include opportunities for everyone to prepare for and benefit from what’s ahead. Programs must include services for low-income homeowners and renters, Mi’kmaw communities, small business and all commercial and industrial business. Training and employment strategies must target the unemployed and disadvantaged so that the great potential to drive economic and community renewal can be realized. And the economic transition must be seen as an instrument for continued reconciliation with the Mi’kmaq and even with the land itself.

The good news is that the actions necessary to make emission cuts can benefit Nova Scotians in every community and in every walk of life. Mobilizing an effective response to climate change through a transformation of our buildings, transportation and energy systems to net-zero is not a threat to the economy; on the contrary, it is the key to continued health, sustainable prosperity, and a strong, green economy for Nova Scotia.

William (Bill) Lahey is founding chair of the EfficiencyOne board of directors and president and vice-chancellor of the University of King’s College. Stephen MacDonald is president and chief executive officer of EfficiencyOne, the non-profit operator of Efficiency Nova Scotia.

Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act

EfficiencyOne congratulates the Nova Scotia government’s new Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act. We applaud the government’s commitment to “support, strengthen and set targets for energy efficiency programming while prioritizing equitable access and benefits for low income and marginalized Nova Scotians”.

Continued investment in energy efficiency programming will help address the province’s greenhouse gas emissions, while generating savings that will reduce energy poverty, boost economic activity and create jobs.

EfficiencyOne is pleased to see so many of the strategic actions identified in our White Paper, 2050: A Net-Zero Carbon Nova Scotia, represented in the goals of the Act.

“This Act focuses on key areas that will help move our province towards net-zero, including increasing levels of energy efficiency, strengthening building codes, government leadership on retrofitting buildings, increased engagement of First Nations and marginalized communities, transportation, and training and education,” says Stephen MacDonald, President and CEO, EfficiencyOne.

“It is encouraging to see the Act recognize that we cannot be committed to sustainability without supporting the growth of the clean economy,” says William Lahey, Founding Chair of the EfficiencyOne Board of Directors and President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of King’s College.

EfficiencyOne is committed to ensuring that all Nova Scotians have access to energy efficiency benefits and opportunities. We look forward to working with our partners in the energy efficiency sector, governments, communities and all Nova Scotians to advance these goals.

Additional Resources:

Read the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act

Read the White Paper