Today, the province of Ontario tabled its first Green Energy Act. The legislation is aimed at building renewable energy, encouraging energy conservation and creating green jobs in Ontario.
The Act will invest in a green economy and create an estimated 50,000 jobs over the next three years. Ontario’s use of clean and renewable energy will also be expanded as part of the province’s commitment to conservation and sustainability.
This move towards an environmentally responsible and ecologically sustainable energy framework puts Ontario on track as a global leader in the field. The association representing the Canadian manufacturers of fiberglass, rock wool and slag wool insulation, NAIMA Canada, applauds the Green Energy Act.
“We’re thrilled with the proposed legislation, especially the portions that require clearly revealing energy efficiency and consumption values to people buying or leasing properties,” stated Steve Koch, Executive Director of NAIMA Canada. “These steps will be a very real assistance to consumers. It’s absolutely crucial that purchasers and lessees have a solid understanding of the operating cost in a home and the environmental impacts of their choices… the Green Energy Act moves us toward that.”
An incredibly important signal is the designation of energy efficiency as a “core purpose” of the Ontario Building Code, the establishment of an energy efficiency advisory panel, and a regular updating of the Code on a five year cycle. Other changes will direct builders to attain higher standards of energy efficiency, and direct the government and its agencies to make energy efficient procurement choices.
“The importance of requiring energy audits at the time of sale cannot be underestimated. It’s increasingly clear that the buildings we live and work in can have enormous carbon footprints,” Koch added. “Mandating energy efficiency in design, construction and materials is a remarkably effective way of combating climate change, saving money and creating jobs.”
