Posted by Orleans EMC on October 27, 2011

Savings are a gas if you’re with Enbridge.

Have you heard of the EnviroCentre? Jessica Sheridan, an administrative assistant with the non-profit organization, is trying to make sure that you do before it’s too late.  

While the EnviroCentre provides retailing residential services and weatherization services, the organization also lends a hand to low-income families.

EnviroCentre facilitates requirements put in place by the Ontario Energy Board that Enbridge Inc. provide assistance for its low-income customers as a “sign of good faith,” according to Sheridan.

The program’s funding comes out of Enbridge’s pocket entirely and there are many different ways for people to qualify for the weatherization program, which can produce serious annual savings.

The program is available to homeowners and renters, according to Sheridan, however “renters will require approval from the landlord.”

“The main requirement (aside from income) is that they are paying their own natural gas bill.”

The upgrades come at no cost to the family or individuals who qualify for the program, according to Sheridan.

“We start with a phone screening, then hand the information from that to an advisor,” she said.

“If a phone screening identifies a true candidate, clients can generally expect an audit within two weeks.”

If the audit is approved, the EnviroCentre proceeds with insulating the home as soon as it’s ready.

“Insulation takes about three hours to install and is worth between $2,000 to $5,000,” Sheridan explained.

“Once retrofitted, homes become much more comfortable and far less drafty, they’re warmer in winters and cooler in summers.”

At the end of the day, Sheridan said that families who receive assistance from Enbridge and EnviroCentre can save between 24 to 45 per cent of their gas bill – up to $750 annually.

The program is in its fifth year but will conclude at the end of 2011, which is why Sheridan said it’s important for low-income families to act while they can.

There are fast and easy methods to verify whether or not one’s home qualifies for an EnviroCentre upgrade – but first consider these:

- Is the exterior of your pre-1970s wood/aluminium/vinyl sided? Is it stucco or brick veneer or double-brick?

- Do you know if the walls have any insulation at all?

- Does your household benefit from Ontario Works, Ontario Disability Support Program, Allowance for Survivors, Guaranteed Income Supplement, Allowance for Seniors or the National Child Benefit Supplement?

For more information on the EnviroCentre, its programs and if they could benefit you, visit www.envirocentre.ca or call 613-580-2582, ext. 4.

tmuma@theemc.ca