June 25, 2007

Energy Efficient Rebate Program Announced for New Homes

The Government of Saskatchewan demonstrated a continued commitment to the environment today by announcing an energy efficient rebate program for new homes. In support of the province's Green Strategy, Saskatchewan residents who build or purchase a newly constructed ENERGY STAR® qualified or R-2000 certified home are now eligible to receive up to $2,400 in rebates.

SaskEnergy will be administering the program on behalf of Saskatchewan Environment.

"The Province's Green Strategy is about working with the people of Saskatchewan to find ways that ensure our future is both green and prosperous. The Rebate Program for New Homes provides an incentive to help achieve those goals," Environment Minister John Nilson said. "With our growing economy and many young families choosing to return to Saskatchewan, this program presents opportunities for new homeowners to make wise environmental choices that will have a lasting impact and set a new standard for the future."

Upon the purchase of an ENERGY STAR qualified or R-2000 certified home, homeowners qualify for a $1,000 rebate plus,

• an additional $1,000 rebate for the purchase and installation of a solar domestic hot water heating system,
   

• a $150 rebate for the purchase and installation of a drain water heat recovery system, and/or
   
• a $100 rebate for the purchase and installation of one qualifying natural gas appliance - for two qualifying natural gas
appliances the rebate increases to $250. Qualifying natural gas appliances include clothes dryers, barbecues, cooktops, and ranges.

New homes that are ENERGY STAR qualified or R-2000 certified are approximately 30 to 40 percent more efficient than those built to minimum building code standards. The increased efficiency of these homes translates into a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and utility costs.

"An ENERGY STAR qualified or R-2000 certified home may cost a bit more money upfront," said Keith Hanson, Executive Director of Resource Efficient Housing Incorporated (REHI). "But the long-term energy, electrical, and water savings will more than pay for that initial investment. Plus, homeowners may also benefit from an increased resale value."

The Saskatchewan Home Builders Association says it believes the commitment from the province to offer an incentive for new homes is a significant step for the housing industry.

"The majority of builders in the province recognize the increased demand for energy efficient housing - not only from an environmental perspective but an affordability perspective as well," said Dave Hepburn, President of the Saskatchewan Home Builders Association. "Many of the homebuilders are focusing on providing their staff with the knowledge and training so they can begin meeting the expectations homeowners will have to ensure their home is being built as efficient as possible with the latest of technologies."

Hepburn estimates that close to 1,000 new homes will be built to either an ENERGY STAR or R-2000 standard in 2007. This represents approximately 45 percent of the total expected new home starts in Saskatchewan.

The Energy Efficient Rebate for New Homes is available between April 1, 2007 and March 31, 2008. For more information on the rebate program, visit saskenergy.com or call 1-866-409-9770.

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