Pilot project helping homes and businesses in Kentville reduce demand while increasing benefits

Klondike Pilot, named for the substation that delivers electricity to the over 3,800 homes and businesses in and around the Kentville area, is helping homes and businesses reduce demand for electricity while saving money and making their homes more efficient.

Demand is the rate at which electricity is used (typically measured in kilowatts (kW)) and peak demand is the time when consumer demand for that electricity is at its highest. Finding ways to reduce the demand on an electrical system is called demand reduction.

Simply put, small changes can make big impacts on the capacity of the electrical grid, maintain cost-effectiveness of electricity rates, and help Nova Scotia meet its environmental sustainability goals.

This demand reduction pilot is aimed at reducing peak demand, as well as saving energy and money for homes and businesses that are located within the pilot area.

Participants in the pilot will benefit from special limited time incentives that will save money on utility bills and create more comfortable atmosphere thanks to high quality energy efficient products. Participants can access incentives on upgrades such as heat pumps, lighting measures, water heaters, and electric thermal storage units.

Do you live or operate a business in the Kentville area? Find out if you are eligible to participate.

Atlantic Compassion Fund helps Nova Scotians benefit from redirected HomeWarming funds

Over these past few months supporting Nova Scotians, the communities we serve and assisting those most in need has never been more important, that is why, Nova Scotia Power, EfficiencyOne and the Nova Scotia Government redirected $3 million from the HomeWarming Program to address urgent needs during the pandemic.

$1 million of this funding went to the United Way Atlantic Compassion Fund to help vulnerable families and youth in Nova Scotia. Over 190 charitable organizations in communities across Nova Scotia have benefited from the Atlantic Compassion Fund. A huge thanks to the United Way Halifax for all of their work and dedication in or communities every day and especially during this crisis.

Efficiency Expert Barry Walker on CBC Maritime Noon

Our resident Energy Expert Barry Walker joined Bob Murphy on CBC Mainstreet to share energy efficiency tips and take calls from folks throughout the Maritimes. Listen to his full segment.

Energy Efficiency’s Role in a Green Economic Recovery

As Nova Scotia, and Canada, continues to transition to a low-carbon future, we believe that the energy efficiency sector has a big role to play and is a significant contributor to local and national sustainability goals. In April, EfficiencyOne co-signed a letter to several Federal Ministers that outlined the role energy efficiency can play in a green economic recovery. We are optimistic that we’ll continue to see a strong commitment and level of understanding from the Federal government on the important role that energy efficiency does, and will continue to play, in achieving long term sustainability goals, creating green jobs, and continuing to help people build a better world through efficiency. Our role is to inform and motivate Nova Scotians to use less energy, use it smarter, and enjoy the good things efficiency brings. Investing in energy efficiency comes with many benefits—lower heating bills, more comfortable spaces, new jobs in your community, and a smaller overall carbon footprint. We are also excited to learn more about Canada’s intention to join the Three Per Cent Club, a coalition of businesses, government and institutions who have made a commitment to accelerate progress on energy efficiency with a goal to drive a 3% annual improvement rate in global energy intensity. Read the full letter:

CTV Morning Live Atlantic talks Home Energy Assessments

Our very own expert Barry Walker appeared on CTV Morning Live Atlantic this week, talking what to expect during one of our Home Energy Assessments and tips on using less home energy while saving money.

Check it out here: https://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=2011037

EfficiencyOne presents at new virtual workshop series Energy Talks

We were pleased to have our very own Hugh MacDonald, Director of Information & Analytics and Ryan Kelly, Technical Lead, join a wide range of presenters as part of the new virtual workshop series Energy Talks on July 22, 2020. Hugh and Ryan along with Winston Morton, Chief Technical Officer at our partner Simptek Technologies, to deliver a session on Intelligent Efficiency Supply Chain Using Advanced Analytics. Over the past few months EfficiencyOne and Simptek Technologies have partnered on a pilot project to test the merits of using machine learning technology to increase enrolment in efficiency programs and streamline delivery of efficiency services.

The pilot project consists of using data analytics to help homeowners find the most relevant program offers, estimate potential savings, and access the products and services they need to take action to improve overall household energy efficiency. These insights will enable homeowners to quickly understand their best options to save money, improve their energy efficiency, and select local efficiency product and service vendors. #energytalks #energyinnovators

Learn more about the Energy Talks workshop series.

Fostering sustainable growth and planning in Nova Scotia

E1 is proud to work with NSCC as they continue to demonstrate leadership and a commitment to energy efficiency in Nova Scotia through activities such as planning, project development, energy management, and employee engagement. In early July NSCC unveiled conceptual drawings of the new Marconi Campus that is set to begin construction this summer on the Sydney Waterfront. Working with Efficiency Nova Scotia’s On-Site Energy Manager, Sam Natche, NSCC has been able to identify improved energy related activities, and plan, implement, and evaluate energy savings. The new Marconi Campus project is looking into incorporating the following energy efficiency measures:

High efficiency lighting and optimizing natural light
Running energy modelling scenarios to ensure high performance building envelope and glazing
Incorporation of multiple renewable energy systems
Heat recovery units

The new campus is set to open in 2024 and by including these measures will achieve LEED Gold Status and see projected energy savings between 1-3 GWh, which is roughly a 40-50% projected energy reduction compared to Building Code. We look forward to following this project in the coming months.

NS Power, EfficiencyOne and province come together to support vital services during COVID

Nova Scotians are facing many challenges in these extraordinary times. That is why Nova Scotia Power, EfficiencyOne and the Nova Scotia Government will redirect $3 million from the HomeWarming Program to address urgent needs during the pandemic.

“Nova Scotians are doing a tremendous job of stepping up to support and care for their neighbours during this difficult time, and we want to make sure no one is left behind,” said Energy and Mines Minister Derek Mombourquette. “We know there are gaps and challenges including increased demand at a time when we are seeing a shortage of staff and volunteers. That’s why we are providing more support for this vital work.”

The funding will support a number of organizations across the province who will help families and individuals with necessities like food and shelter and support to help people stay connected.

“Supporting the communities we serve and assisting those most in need has never been more important,” said Wayne O’Connor, President & CEO, Nova Scotia Power. I am so pleased that together our teams at NS Power, EfficiencyOne and the NS Government have been able to find ways to provide additional support to Nova Scotians.

“We know these are uncertain times for so many Nova Scotians and repurposing HomeWarming funds in this way will allow us to continue to help Nova Scotians who are most in need.” Stephen MacDonald, CEO, EfficiencyOne.

The HomeWarming program helps eligible Nova Scotians upgrade their homes to make them more energy efficient and manage their energy costs. Due to the restrictions in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19, home energy efficiency assessments and upgrades cannot be completed. The program will start up again once the restrictions are lifted but for now the funds will help to provide immediate relief for Nova Scotians during these challenging times.

“United Ways are nimble, knowledgeable about local needs and ready to ensure this investment will have meaningful and timely impact on the lives of those who need support most”, said Sara Napier, President & CEO, United Way Halifax. Through our Atlantic Compassion Fund, we have already provided funding to 80 frontline programs across Nova Scotia that are helping people in need of safe shelter, food, connection or mental health care to make it through this crisis. The funding announced today will enable us to do more to meet our communities’ needs and help the most vulnerable Nova Scotians make it through this.”

Nova Scotia Power’s contribution to the HomeWarming program is provided by its parent company Emera Inc., while the Province of Nova Scotia provides funding through EfficiencyOne.

Quick Facts:

$1.36M for prepared meal delivery services such as Meals on Wheels and the VON’s Frozen Favourites to help hire staff, buy food and make meal deliveries;
$1M for United Way’s Atlantic Compassion Fund to help vulnerable families and youth in Nova Scotia;
$400,000 for shelters, soup kitchens and other service organizations; and
$180,000 for Seniors’ Safety Programs and $60,000 for Community Links to help meet the needs of older Nova Scotians.

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About Nova Scotia Power
Nova Scotia Power Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Emera Inc. (TSX-EMA), a diversified energy and services company. Nova Scotia Power provides 95% of the generation, transmission and distribution of electrical power to more than 520,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers across Nova Scotia. The company is focused on new technologies to enhance customer service and reliability, reduce emissions and add renewable energy. Nova Scotia Power has over 1,700 employees and $4.1 billion in assets. Learn more at www.nspower.ca.

About EfficiencyOne

EfficiencyOne is a leader in the design and delivery of resource efficiency programs and services for homes, businesses, and large industrial customers. To date, EfficiencyOne, operating in Nova Scotia as Efficiency Nova Scotia, has helped over 400,000 program participants and achieved more than $1 billion in energy savings, avoiding nearly 1 million tonnes of CO2 annually. Learn more at www.efficiencyns.ca.

Media Contacts:

Nova Scotia Power

Jacqueline Foster

902.233.6015

Email: Jacqueline.Foster@nspower.ca

EfficiencyOne

Janet Tobin

902.499.6494

Email: JTobin@efficiencyns.ca

NS Energy and Mines

Gary Andrea

902-456-6196

Email: Gary.Andrea@novascotia.ca

Homes in Mi’kmaw communities across Nova Scotia to benefit from energy-efficient upgrades

GOLD RIVER, NS, Aug. 29, 2019 /CNW/ – Investing in green infrastructure helps communities reduce their carbon footprint and increase their resilience to climate change. It also helps safeguard public health, protect the environment and create a clean-growth economy.

Today, the Honourable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Rural Economic Development; Hugh MacKay, Member of Legislative Assembly for Chester–St. Margaret’s on behalf of the Honourable Derek Mombourquette, Minister of Energy and Mines; and Chief Paul Prosper, Energy Lead for the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs, announced joint funding towards improving energy-efficiency in approximately 2,400 eligible on-reserve, band-owned homes in the 13 Mi’kmaw communities across Nova Scotia.

Work involves identifying sources of heat loss, air leakage, and moisture issues in homes, and taking measures to reduce them. Improvements will include adding insulation, moisture mitigation and ventilation upgrades, as well as heat pumps. These renovations will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase residents’ comfort, health and quality of life in their homes. The project will also reduce energy costs for these communities.

The Government of Canada is investing $10.5 million in this project through the Green Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada infrastructure plan. The Province of Nova Scotia is investing $3.5 million.

Quotes

“Investments in energy-efficient, green housing are critical to ensuring the health and prosperity of all Canadians. Today’s announcement for improvements to Mi’kmaw homes in Nova Scotia demonstrates our government’s commitment to investing in green infrastructure that creates healthy communities where people can live, work, and raise their families for generations to come.”

The Honourable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Rural Economic Development

“Nova Scotia is a national leader in fighting climate change, with energy efficiency being a large part of our work and success. We are pleased to partner with Mi’kmaw communities on this initiative, so their members can benefit from the upgrades as well as the jobs, training and future opportunities that will follow.”

The Honourable Derek Mombourquette, Minister of Energy and Mines

“We are pleased to be working Nation-to-Nation to create positive changes on how energy is used in our Mi’kmaw homes. With the support of the Mi’kmaw Home Energy Efficiency Project, our communities can find new, innovative ways to best preserve and protect the place that we have called home since time immemorial.”

Chief Paul Prosper, Energy Lead for the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs

“This funding will allow for us to continue and expand our current projects in Mi’kmaw communities. The energy efficiency upgrades will not only help participants save on their energy bills, but will also reduce emissions, contributing to Nova Scotia’s clean energy future.”

Stephen MacDonald, Chief Executive Officer, EfficiencyOne

Quick facts

Through the Investing in Canada infrastructure plan, the Government of Canada is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.
$26.9 billion of this funding is supporting green infrastructure projects, including $5 billion available for investment through the Canada Infrastructure Bank.
On June 27, 2019, the Government of Canada launched two new strategies: Canada’s Connectivity Strategy, which commits to connect all Canadians to high-speed internet, and Canada’s first Rural Economic Development Strategy, which will spur economic growth and create good, middle class jobs for rural Canadians across the country.
The Rural Economic Development Strategy leverages ongoing federal investments and provides a vision for the future, identifying practical steps to take in the short term, and serving as a foundation to guide further work.
These investments complement the Atlantic Growth Strategy, a 2-year federal-provincial action plan aimed at stimulating economic growth in the region through five priority areas:
- Skilled workforce/Immigration;
- Innovation;
- Clean growth and climate change;
- Trade and investment;
- Infrastructure.

Associated links

Federal infrastructure investments in Nova Scotia: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/map-carte/ns-eng.html

Investing in Canada Plan Project Map:
http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/map

Investing in Canada: Canada’s Long-Term Infrastructure Plan:
http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/icp-publication-pic-eng.html

Rural Opportunity, National Prosperity: An Economic Development Strategy for Rural Canada:
https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/rural/strat-eng.html

Atlantic Growth Strategy: http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca/ags-sca/Eng/atlantic-growth.html

SOURCE Infrastructure Canada

For further information: Kendra Wilcox, Acting Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development, 343-549-8856, kendra.wilcox@canada.ca; Gary Andrea, Media Relations Advisor, Nova Scotia Department of Energy and Mines, 902-456-6196, Gary.andrea@novascotia.ca; Media Relations, Infrastructure Canada, 613-960-9251, Toll free: 1-877-250-7154, Email: infc.media.infc@canada.ca

Halifax Announced as New Urban Climate Centre

Canada is building a clean energy future that creates jobs, reduces costs for families and ensures that we remain a destination of choice for international investment.

Andy Fillmore, Member of Parliament for Halifax, on behalf of the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, today announced an $18-million contribution for EfficiencyOne to establish an urban climate centre in Halifax.

EfficiencyOne will operate one of seven new urban Low Carbon Cities Canada (LC3) climate centres across Canada. These centres will help companies reduce the business risks of developing tomorrow’s low-carbon technologies that drive energy efficiency improvements.

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fund^TM will serve as the national centre for LC3. Announced in Budget 2019, LC3 is part of the Canada’s $1.01-billion plan to make communities more energy-efficient. It will use federal investments to work with municipalities, private investors, public agencies, utilities, non-profit organizations and other levels of government to build long-term, low-carbon solutions.

This investment will create a network across Canada that supports local community actions to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Canada’s energy efficiency sector supported 436,000 jobs in 2018, and this number is expected to grow by 8.3 percent this year alone. Investments like these are helping this sector grow faster, creating a better future for Canadians.

Through Generation Energy, Canada’s national energy dialogue, Canadians expressed that they want Canada to continue to be a leader in the transition to a clean growth economy. The Government of Canada will also continue to support smarter energy initiatives that create a clean, sustainable, competitive energy sector that cuts pollution and acts on climate change.

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Quotes

“The Government of Canada is proud to invest in low-carbon solutions in our cities, particularly through an initiative that will generate prosperity through local job creation and unlock many social, economic and environmental benefits across the country.”

Andy Fillmore,
Member of Parliament for Halifax

“This investment will enable EfficiencyOne to do even more to achieve significant carbon reductions. It builds upon Nova Scotia’s impressive track record in energy efficiency to support broader carbon reduction initiatives in the Halifax region.”

Stephen MacDonald,
CEO, EfficiencyOne

“We already see our cities leading the way on low-carbon innovation, and this investment will unlock so much potential to go further — to build cost-saving energy solutions that build better lives for Canadians.”

Bill Karsten
President, Federation of Canadian Municipalities

Associated Links

Canada’s Energy Future

Low Carbon Cities Canada (LC3)

Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM)

EfficiencyOne (EO)

Contacts

Natural Resources Canada
Media Relations
343-292-6100
NRCan.media_relations-media_relations.RNCan@canada.ca

Vanessa Adams
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Natural Resources
343-543-7645
Vanessa.Adams@canada.ca

Follow us on Twitter: @NRCan (http://twitter.com/nrcan)

Pilot project helping homes and businesses in Kentville reduce demand while increasing benefits