400 Million for the greening of Ontario

TORONTO, ONTARIO Electricity companies are getting $400 million in tax dollars to develop programs that will change people's energy-sucking habits.

At the same time, Ontario residents are being urged to replace their light bulbs with fluorescent ones, use the dishwasher during off hours and buy energy efficient appliances.

Energy Minister Dwight Duncan says every little step will count toward making sure there's enough power supply to meet basic needs.

The hope is to reduce peak electricity demands by five per cent by next year.

The money is part of the larger plan by the province to avoid a future electricity crisis.

The scheme includes spending some $70 billion over the next 20 years on a slew of nuclear, wind and conservation projects.

Toronto Star