Federal Gov't and Enbridge Gas fund energy-efficiency rebate

FREDERICTON - Enbridge Gas New Brunswick and the Government of Canada are teaming up to promote energy efficiency and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Customers of Enbridge Gas New Brunswick are eligible to receive a $600 incentive if they upgrade their home or small business heating system between April 1, 2004, and December 30, 2005.

Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and Enbridge Gas New Brunswick are each contributing half of the $600 incentive. This incentive is available to customers who replace existing home heating systems with ENERGY STAR(R) qualified high-efficiency natural gas furnaces or boilers, or who buy new homes that have these systems.

The gas provider is also providing additional incentives for the installation of both central heating and hot water natural gas systems, bringing total incentives available up to $1,550 for residential customers.

"With our commitment to environmental stewardship, it's important for Canadians to find ways of reducing greenhouse gas emissions," said the Honourable Andy Scott, Minister of State (Infrastructure), on behalf of the Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada. "Upgrading your home heating system can be a significant step in helping Canada meet its climate change objectives and the One-Tonne Challenge goal of reducing individual emissions by 20 percent."

"Using natural gas in place of other fossil fuels or electricity generated from fossil fuels, such as coal or heavy fuel oil, emits fewer harmful pollutants into the atmosphere," said Rock Marois, General Manager, Enbridge Gas New Brunswick.

Officials of the provincial Department of Energy worked with NRCan's Office of Energy Efficiency and Enbridge on the incentive program. Energy Minister Bruce Fitch applauded the initiative and hopes that many New Brunswickers take advantage of the program.

"We have been saying for some time that it is important for homeowners in our province to examine alternatives to electric baseboard heating," Fitch said. "This new program provides an excellent incentive for people who may be pondering installing natural gas in their homes. I want to congratulate Enbridge and Natural Resources Canada for striking this important partnership."

"Natural gas is always a smart energy choice. It is a safe, reliable and efficient way to meet the energy needs of your home or business," said Marois. "With the incentives available through this program, now is a great time to install a high-efficiency natural gas heating system and contribute to environmental preservation while saving even more."

ENERGY STAR is an international symbol for energy efficiency and is administered and promoted in Canada by NRCan's Office of Energy Efficiency. Partnerships such as this one with Enbridge Gas New Brunswick enable NRCan to build on existing local or regional programs.

Incentives under the program are only available through Enbridge Gas New Brunswick and its authorized dealers. For more information, please call Enbridge Gas New Brunswick at 1-866-3-Get-Gas (1-866-343-8427).

Owned by Enbridge Inc. and approximately 50 New Brunswick investors, Enbridge Gas New Brunswick is the company that distributes natural gas to institutional, commercial, industrial and residential customers in New Brunswick. Enbridge Inc. is a leader in energy transportation and distribution in North America and internationally. As a transporter of energy, Enbridge operates, in Canada and the United States, the world's longest crude oil and liquids pipeline system. Enbridge distributes natural gas to more than 1.7 million customers.

NRCan plays a pivotal role in helping shape the important contributions of the natural resources sector to the Canadian economy, society and environment. It conducts innovative science to generate ideas and transfer technologies, and represents Canada's international interests to meet our global commitments related to natural resources.

The Government of Canada's approach to climate change is focused on making the right choices for Canada. This will ensure that the actions taken contribute to the long-term goals of building a sustainable economy for the 21st century, a healthier environment and strong communities, while affirming Canada's place in the world.

Canada Newswire