Wednesday, April 07, 2010

Home Program Cut

The Federal EcoEnergy Retrofit Homes program known in Saskatchewan as the EnerGuide for Houses Program is out the window. Natural Resources Canada has cancelled their funding of new applications as of March 31, 2010. Thanks to the federal government Canadians will be left out in the cold if they are relying on the federal government to assist them with needed home renovations.

This was a necessary program to assist people with reducing their carbon footprint by using less energy to heat their homes. It helped individuals reduce their expenses to maintain a home and encouraged wise conservation. It was also one of the best and most efficient stimulus programs the federal government had to partner with individuals.

The federal government had plenty of money for bailouts and stimulus funds for the auto industry and billions in tax cuts for large corporations. I can hear my energy efficient furnace running as I write this letter with the assurance that the heat is not being lost thanks to this program. I will get some financial assistance from the EnerGuide for Houses Program to offset the money I spent to make my home more energy efficient. Contactors and building suppliers all benefited from the program. It created jobs and it was good for our economy.

I can’t explain the government’s decision on this issue. You should likely call your Member of Parliament and have them explain it to you.