Transportation and Works
February 20, 2013

The following is being distributed at the request of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

Social Housing Renovations focus on Energy Efficiency in Western Newfoundland

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador continues to advance affordable housing initiatives with $152,000 to support energy efficiency improvements to social housing in Western Newfoundland through the modernization and improvement program.

“Properly maintaining social housing is a priority for this government, as it ensures properties will continue to be available as affordable homes for people with low incomes,” said the Honourable Paul Davis, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “These renovations will modernize homes and help improve the energy efficiency of the properties. Increased energy efficiency will in turn help families maintain sustainable utility costs.”

With an investment of $60,000, heat recovery ventilation units have been installed in 16 homes on Olympic Place in Corner Brook. These units are designed to introduce fresh air to a building and improve indoor air quality, while promoting efficient energy use. This type of renovation directly supports the commitments in the Provincial Government’s action plans focused on climate change and energy efficiency, Charting Our Course: Climate Change Action Plan 2011, and Moving Forward: Energy Efficiency Action Plan 2011.

“This government is committed to leading by example in increasing energy efficiency and sustainable energy practices, and we are seeing evidence of this commitment in renovation opportunities for affordable housing,” said the Honourable Tom Marshall, Minister of Natural Resources and MHA for Humber East. “Each upgrade extends the life of these properties, and ensures the continuation of safe and affordable housing in our community.”

EJB Contracting Ltd. has been awarded a contract valued at $92,000 to replace siding, doors, windows and roofing on four units on Pratt Street in Corner Brook. As well, additional insulation will be installed under the new siding, and heat recovery ventilation units will be installed.

“This government continues to invest significantly in the modernization of social housing in the Corner Brook area and throughout western Newfoundland,” said Vaughn Granter, MHA for Humber West. “As outlined in Secure Foundations – A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador, this government is committed to improving the housing circumstances of individuals and families with low-incomes, and these renovations will help achieve that goal by renewing the properties, and making these homes more comfortable for tenants.”

Secure Foundations, released by the Provincial Government in August 2009, outlines a 10-year vision for social housing. It is aimed at improving the housing circumstances of low-income households and helping create healthier communities. Budget 2012: People and Prosperity allocated $25.9 million for social housing infrastructure, including $10.4 million for maintenance and $12 million for renovations and improvements.

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is the province’s largest landlord with approximately 5,573 non-profit social housing dwellings province-wide.

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2013 02 20                          12:15 p.m.