Helping Islanders save energy, save money and protect the environment will be the focus of a new Office of Energy Efficiency. Premier Robert Ghiz says the office will provide Islanders with one-stop shopping for programs, services and advice to reduce the amount of energy they use at home, at work and on the road.
“The increase in oil and gasoline prices over the last few years has put increased pressure on Island families. Our government wants to help relieve some of that pressure by helping Islanders reduce their energy costs by using energy wisely and making smart energy choices. Creating the Office of Energy Efficiency is the first step in doing that,” said Premier Ghiz.
An average household can save as much as $750 a year through energy efficiency measures such as switching to energy efficient lighting and appliances, reducing air leakage around windows and doors, improving insulation in walls and attics, and installing high-efficiency furnaces and other heating equipment. Similarly, people can save hundreds of dollars on their yearly gasoline bill by following simple car maintenance tips and smart driving habits.
“These savings not only help Islanders, they help our environment,” said Premier Ghiz. “By reducing the amount of oil and gas we use, we reduce emissions that contribute to climate change and create a healthier environment.”
The Office of Energy Efficiency will be established under the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry. Minister George Webster said existing department staff have been assigned to get the office up and operating by this fall. Additional staff will be hired as programs are developed and implemented. Minister Webster said the first task is to identify what those programs will be.
“There are a variety of measures that can be used to promote energy efficiency such as rebates, tax incentives or low-interest loans for energy efficient products. We want to determine the best combination of measures that will provide the most benefit for Islanders,” said Minister Webster.
The Province has contracted a report to identify the most effective programs and services to increase energy efficiency in the residential, commercial/institutional and transportation sectors in Prince Edward Island. That work will be completed later this month.
Minister Webster said he expects the Office of Energy Efficiency will work closely with other Island organizations that are promoting energy efficiency. Several environment and community groups have carried out projects such as home energy audits and campaigns to encourage people to use public transit. As well, under Prince Edward Island’s Renewable Energy Act, electric utilities must implement their own demand-side management plans to promote the efficient use of electricity.
“Through the Office of Energy Efficiency, our government looks forward to working with Islanders to make energy efficiency part of everyday living,” the Minister said.
Islanders looking for information and advice on energy efficiency can call 1-877-PEI-OEE6 (1-877-734-6336).
Premier Ghiz announced the establishment of the Office of Energy Efficiency on the eve of the Council of the Federation meeting where energy will be a key agenda topic. Provincial and territorial premiers will be discussing energy and climate change issues including ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The meeting is August 8 to 10 in Moncton, New Brunswick.