DARTMOUTH - North Preston welcomed fall with a bit of green today. Mike Savage, Member of Parliament for Dartmouth-Cole Harbour, today announced funding for North Preston's newest energy-efficient building. Mr. Savage made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). The North Preston Community Centre received $36,738 toward the design of its building through NRCan's Commercial Building Incentive Program (CBIP). In the six years of its existence, CBIP has supported more than 417 buildings, including 22 in Nova Scotia. "I would like to congratulate the team that designed the North Preston Community Centre. North Preston is leading by example in the area of energy efficiency," said Mr. Savage. "The Government of Canada is pleased to provide support for energy-efficient buildings, like this centre, which help reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change and at the same time reduce energy costs." This building was designed to perform at 55.3 percent above and beyond the requirements of the Model National Energy Code for Buildings (MNECB). Annual energy costs could be cut from approximately $41,000 to approximately $22,500. CBIP offers financial incentives for incorporating energy-efficiency features into new commercial, institutional and multi-unit residential building designs that are at least 25 percent more efficient than a reference building that complies with the MNECB. Further details on CBIP, a program within NRCan's Office of Energy Efficiency, can be found on the Internet at oee.nrcan.gc.ca/newbuildings. Additional funding for this initiative was provided for in the March 2004 federal budget. 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. For more information, media may contact: Tom Ormsby Ghyslain Charron Office of the Minister Media Relations Natural Resources Canada Natural Resources Canada Ottawa Ottawa (613) 996-2007 (613) 992-4447
