Dartmouth – Nearly 1,900 households in 13 First Nations communities across Nova Scotia developed skills while saving energy and money as part of an innovative pilot project to promote energy efficiency.

The project, initiated by Efficiency Nova Scotia, received support from the Province, the Kwilmu’kw Maw-klusuaqn Negotiation Office/Mi’kmaq Rights Initiative, and the Dartmouth-based energy efficiency company, Sustainable Housing. Thirty-six community members completed training to install energy efficient lighting, electric hot water tank and pipe wrap, low-flow showerheads and other upgrades in First Nations homes. The installers also provided residents with information and advice to help them save.

Each household will save an average of $180 per year in electricity costs. Taken together, those savings will put more than $330,000 back into First Nations communities – every year.

“Community members seized the opportunity to gain in-demand skills and knowledge in Nova Scotia’s growing energy efficiency industry,” said Allan Crandlemire, CEO of Efficiency Nova Scotia. “This project is a great example of communities coming together around a common goal, developing skills and utilizing innovation to improve – the very themes outlined in the Ivany Report.”

“This government strongly supports efficiency programs and the value they provide to Nova Scotians,” said Energy Minister, Andrew Younger. “We’re pleased ...