Minister asking public to be energy wise

The Minister of Environment and Conservation, Tom Osborne, today is calling on residents of the province to be energy wise and make the extra effort to conserve energy in light of recent price increases in gasoline and other petroleum products.

Minister Osborne said given the extraordinary conditions that currently exist in the petroleum markets and the growing demand for products as a result of Hurricane Katrina, this is a good time for residents to seriously look at conserving energy to save money, which will also benefit the environment.

�Being energy wise will not only cut down on costs, but it will also have a positive impact on our environment,� said Minister Osborne. �The general public should always look at their energy uses and consider ways to reduce energy consumption, especially now during these unique global circumstances. The bottom line is being energy efficient is the right thing to do, economically and environmentally.�

Minister Osborne said there are many simple things that motorists can do to conserve fuel, and should keep the following tips in mind:

• Avoid unnecessary idling. It is estimated that if every driver in Canada reduced idling for five minutes, we would save nearly two million litres of fuel. If your vehicle idles for more than 10 seconds, you are wasting fuel. When you go to the coffee shop don�t use the drive-through; if you�re picking up children at school or your spouse at work, turn off the vehicle.
   
• Remove unnecessary heavy articles from the trunk. Extra weight burns extra fuel.
   
• Keep to the speed limit, driving at 120 km/h instead of 100 km/h increases consumption by up to 20 per cent.
   
• Air conditioning increases fuel consumption by 20 per cent - use it sparingly.
   
• Make sure your tires are properly inflated.
   
• Remove roof racks from your vehicle when not in use.
   
• Avoid jack-rabbit starts and stops.
   
• Walk more or use public transportation.
   
• If you are looking to buy a vehicle, choose one that does not exceed your size requirements.

Minister Osborne added that with the home heating season upon us, consumers should also look at ways they can reduce household energy, including:

• Lower your thermostat at nights or install an automatic set-back unit.
   
• Make sure your windows and doors are properly caulked and have good seals.
   
• Use low flow showerheads, make sure hot water faucets do not drip, and where practical, set back the temperature setting on your hot water tank.
   
• Use compact fluorescent lights.
   
• Use cold water and cold water detergent for washing clothes; and dry clothes outdoors when possible.
   
• Cleaning and tuning your oil furnace will provide immediate savings and is often covered as part of your service package.
   
• If you are building a new home or purchasing new appliances, you should look for the highest energy standards (R-2000, EnerGuide, Energy Star).

Media contact: Sonia Glover, Communications, (709) 729-2575, 685-6612

2005 09 06                         1:25 p.m.