The provincial government and NB Power are working together to help homeowners and renters make their homes more energy efficient and manage their monthly power bills.

A new program, the Enhanced Energy Savings Program, will offer a free mini-split heat pump and upgraded insulation – along with free installation of both – to homeowners who use electric baseboard heating and have a combined gross household income under $70,000. Other homeowners in that income bracket with an alternate heating source are eligible for upgraded insulation free of charge. People can apply and get more information by visiting www.saveenergynb.ca or calling NB Power at 1-800-663-6272.

Homeowners participating in the new program can expect to reduce their energy expenditures by about $500 annually by adding a mini-split heat pump and upgrading their insulation.

Renters can apply to receive free energy efficiency kits containing LED bulbs, shower heads and power bars, which will help them reduce their energy use.

The provincial government is investing $30 million in the multi-year program. A financing program will be added next year for homeowners who do not qualify but wish to make energy efficiency upgrades.

“We know these are challenging times for New Brunswickers who are struggling to make ends meet due to rising costs,” said Natural Resources and Energy Development Minister Mike Holland. “This program is designed to help the people who need it most, be they homeowners or renters. When combined with other efficiency programs for varying income levels, and the newly announced federal program to help with home heating oil, we will be giving all New Brunswickers an opportunity to better manage their energy costs.”

NB Power has also updated its efficiency website. It offers information on the programs available to help residents and business owners of various income levels lower their energy costs.

“The current global economic crisis and rising costs put a lot of pressure on keeping rates affordable, and we are glad to help make initiatives like this available to New Brunswickers. We are committed to working with government to continue to expand programs to help more New Brunswickers in the future,” said Lori Clark, acting president and CEO of NB Power. “We expect this program will be in high demand and are committed to doing what we need to so we can manage demand as quickly as possible.”

FREDERICTON, (GNB)
28-09-22