New Stella Burry Housing Project to be Energy Efficient

Energy efficient measures to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions will be incorporated into the construction of 18 affordable housing units being constructed by Stella Burry Community Services (SBCS). With $400,000 in assistance from the Newfoundland and Labrador Green Fund, the housing project on Military Road in St. John�s will include the installation of additional insulation, high performance windows, heat pump system and control systems.

�Extensive energy performance upgrades are an excellent complement to a much needed and valuable supportive housing initiative,� said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Environment and Conservation. �The proposed upgrades for this project will result in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 54 per cent, reducing energy costs from $12,700 per year to $7,670.�

The redevelopment project includes the building of one-bedroom residential units, as well as the conversion of the first floor into office space that will accommodate a Housing and Resource Centre to provide support services for those in search of affordable housing. A roof-top heat pump system, high-efficiency appliances and low-consumption water fixtures will provide energy efficient solutions that will significantly reduce GHG emissions. An energy efficiency outreach and education campaign involving residents, staff and community partners will also be developed and delivered to the province�s supportive housing sector.

�Stella Burry Community Services is thrilled to be awarded funding through the Newfoundland and Labrador Green Fund Initiative,� said Jocelyn Greene, Executive Director. �As an organization, we are very concerned about energy efficiency, the effects on the environment and the impact of high energy costs on individuals with low incomes. This new funding will allow for energy efficient measures to be incorporated into our newest project located on Military Road. It will reduce energy costs, significantly reduce GHG emissions and will enhance the building�s life span. Additionally, the funding will allow us to showcase the building to other community-based housing providers and to encourage them to incorporate energy efficient measures in their buildings.�

Minister Johnson also said that every initiative to reduce GHGs and incorporate energy efficiency into developments in the province is another step toward the creation of a culture of conservation, a concept which was outlined in the province�s Energy Plan. A commitment was also made in the province�s Climate Change Action Plan to promote energy conservation in public and low-income housing.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Green Fund is a three-year, $25 million program which is supported by both the Federal and Provincial Governments. This funding is to support projects geared toward environmental sustainability and which provide real reductions in GHG emissions.

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2009 11 24                                                    3:45 p.m.