CALGARY — Julia-Maria Becker, senior analyst at the Pembina Institute, made the following statement in response to Energy Efficiency Alberta’s point-of-sale rebate program announcement:
“The Government of Alberta’s decision to offer point-of-sale rebates on energy efficiency products will help tap into one of the most valuable energy resources. Using energy more efficiently will mean savings on energy costs, protection against future volatile energy prices as well as reducing the costs of energy infrastructure for all Albertans. It will also foster new jobs and measurable progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
“The in-store rebates, which are part of the Residential Retail Products Program, will make energy efficient products more accessible for Albertans. With this announcement, it’s clear that the province is following through with its approach to use international best practices by reducing the higher upfront cost for energy efficient products.
“To ensure Alberta takes full advantage of its efficiency resource, the government should also integrate energy efficiency into the utility system. Integration is an established best practice across jurisdictions. Utility system integration will help the province to avoid unnecessary investment in electricity infrastructure by allowing the market to address barriers to energy efficiency and find the most efficient ways to achieve its potential in the province.”
Kickstarting Energy Efficiency in Alberta, the most recent energy efficiency report from the Pembina Foundation, offers an overview of best practices from other jurisdictions and specific ideas for how Alberta can successfully use energy efficiency as an energy resource.
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Contact
Suzy Thompson
Communications Lead, Alberta, Pembina Institute
587-585-4522
