Government Supports Solar Education Across Nova Scotia

Nova Scotians will soon learn more about how solar electricity can save homeowners money, reduce emissions and support green jobs.

Solar Nova Scotia will receive $75,000 from the Low Carbon Communities Program to deliver a provincewide awareness campaign called the Discover Solar Initiative.

“Nova Scotia is a North American leader in fighting climate change by reducing emissions,” said Chester-St. Margaret’s MLA Hugh MacKay, on behalf of Energy and Mines Minister Derek Mombourquette. “Supporting the solar industry will build on our successes and help create green jobs across the province.”

Solar Nova Scotia will host a series of public presentations designed to help solar businesses save time and money by answering questions from customers.

“Installers we’ve talked to report spending up to 20 per cent of their time on sharing information with customers,” said Solar Nova Scotia chair David Brushett. “Public education will help the solar industry reach its full potential by freeing up time resulting in more installations, and ultimately more Nova Scotians working in this growing industry.”

Low Carbon Communities helps eligible groups jump-start projects by funding feasibility studies and plans, engagement activities and building capacity. Projects also promote efficiency, solar energy, clean transportation and other programs that help communities save money on their energy costs.

This year, 11 projects across the province are receiving about $700,000. Eligible groups have received grants of up to $75,000 to a maximum of 75 per cent of project costs.

The Low Carbon Communities Program supports Mi’kmaw communities, registered non-profit or charitable organizations and municipalities in Nova Scotia.