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Nova Scotia investing nearly $18MIL on youth, efficiency and renewables

February 3, 2021 | By Anthony Capkun



February 3, 2021 – Nova Scotia is spending nearly $18 million from the Green Fund to support energy efficiency and renewable energy programs, and youth internships.

“Helping Nova Scotians improve their energy efficiency, and investing in skill development for our youth, positions us to take advantage of the jobs and economic opportunities of a clean energy future,” said Minister Derek Mombourquette.

Here is what’s involved:

• $5.5 million over two years for the Solar Homes program, which offers rebates to homeowners installing solar panels.

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• $6.7 million over three years for the Affordable Multi-Family Housing program, which provides incentives for energy efficiency upgrades in affordable housing projects.

• $3.5 million over three years for the Small Business and Not-For-Profit Energy Solutions program, which offers incentives for energy efficiency upgrades for small businesses and not-for-profits.

• $2 million over five years for the Clean Leadership program, to allow youth interns to work on climate change projects across the province.

The investments in energy efficiency will save Nova Scotians approximately $1.8 million a year on their energy bills, says the province.

“This investment in energy efficiency comes at a time when Nova Scotians are looking for ways to save money and reduce their energy use and climate impact. Energy efficiency is the fastest and most cost-effective way for Nova Scotia to meet its climate change mitigation goals,” said Stephen MacDonald, president & CEO, EfficiencyOne.

The Green Fund is collected through Nova Scotia’s cap-and-trade auctions, which were held twice in 2020. The first two auctions generated $28.7 million, and there is still $9.2 million remaining in the fund for future projects.


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