Ontario Scores an “A” for Energy Conservation

Energy Efficiency Advocate Highlights McGuinty Government's Commitment

Ontario's commitment to energy conservation scores an "A" on the latest report card from a national non-profit group that promotes energy efficiency.     Ontario's grade on the 2007 report card from the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance - released today - is just the latest in a string of improved scores, reflecting the province's ongoing commitment to conservation as the cornerstone of a long-term energy plan.     The Alliance highlights Ontario's work on conservation so far, including the province's plan to save 6,300 megawatts of electricity by 2025. To date, Ontario has reached its first interim target: a 1,350 MW reduction in peak demand by the end of 2007, and is working toward another 1,350 MW reduction by 2010. "Solid grades," the report points out. "But even more encouraging is what is in the pipeline for the future - Ontario appears to be taking Energy Efficiency VERY seriously."
QUICK FACTS      -   Other energy saving initiatives of the McGuinty government include:         -  Banning inefficient light bulbs by 2012         -  Supporting homeowners with the $112 million Ontario Home Energy            Audit and Retrofit programs which cover half the cost of an energy            audit (up to $150) and provide access to up to $10,000 in combined            provincial and federal grants         -  Helping the industrial, commercial and institutional sectors adopt            a clean, renewable option through the $14.4 million Ontario Solar            Thermal Heating Incentive (OSTHI)         -  Extending point-of-sale retail sales tax exemption for            ENERGY STAR(R) products (e.g., light bulbs, refrigerators, and            dishwashers)         -  Installing smart meters across the province by the end of 2010.         -  Supporting Ontario Power Authority programs, such as the Great            Refrigerator Round Up, peaksaver, Cool Savings Rebate and Every            Kilowatt Counts Summer Sweepstakes programs

(via. CNW Group)