A program in Bridgewater aimed at lifting at least 350 households out of energy poverty is facing significant challenges, jeopardizing its goal.
Bridgewater committed to halving the number of residents in energy poverty by 2030, supported by a $5 million dollar grant received in 2019.
A 2022 study by McGill University revealed that 38 percent of Bridgewater's residents are struggling with energy poverty, defined as spending more than six percent of their household income on home energy costs. The town's population was 8,790 as of 2021.
To date, about six apartment buildings with 67 units have participated in the program, making efficiency upgrades while keeping rents low. This component of the program is funded by Efficiency Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia Power, and the provincial government.
The project director of Energize Bridgewater and head of the Bridgewater's community development department, notes that the program is struggling to reach renters.
Many property owners are passing on rising energy costs to tenants. This issue is compounded by the federal carbon tax, which has further increased energy expenses for many residents.
To date, Energize Bridgewater has provided low-cost loans to 116 homeowners, leading to an average reduction of about $1,000 per year in energy costs per home.
Bridgewater Police Service Alerted by INTERPOL and FBI
