CHBA Applauds New Federal Energy Efficiency Investment
OTTAWA, September 7, 2011 - The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) applauds today’s announcement by the Honourable Joe Oliver, Minister of Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), that the federal government will be investing $78 million in a range of new and expanded energy efficiency initiatives over the next two years.
“Many of these investments will assist new home builders and renovators in providing Canadians with increased home energy efficiency, saving them money and helping protect our environment,” Ron Olson, CHBA’s Acting President, said.
“It is significant that the Minister’s announced funding includes support for the R-2000 initiative and ENERGY STAR for New Homes, which have made Canada a world-leader in energy efficient housing,” Olson said.
“The CHBA is particularly pleased that this initiative includes increased support for the EnerGuide Rating System (ERS), which provides Canadian homeowners with a reliable way to measure their home’s energy performance,” Olson added. “Whether you are buying a new home, or renovating an existing one, getting an ERS assessment is the best first step to improving a home’s energy efficiency.”
The CHBA is also pleased that NRCan will be increasing its support for efficiency standards for new equipment used in homes, and in promoting labeling programs such as ENERGY STAR, that help consumers select more energy efficient models.
“The federal government plays a key role in helping Canadians reduce energy use in their homes,” Olson said. “Today’s announcement by Minister Oliver will help to strengthen this important role.”