Jason Unrau
Northern News Services
Friday, July 13, 2007

YELLOWKNIFE - A program offering cash back to NWT consumers buying energy efficient appliances, heating units and automobiles was announced by Environment Minister Michael McLeod last week.

"It will encourage residents to purchase products that are better for our environment," said McLeod. "These products help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while saving energy and money."

Don Strang, owner of Furniture Land, said that among the worst appliance culprits for burning electricity are age-old freezers.

"This guy came in with a freezer from the 50s," recalled Strang. "He bought a new one and started saving $30 a month on his power bills."

The new program will be administered through the Arctic Energy Alliance and consumers, including businesses, non-profits and residents, purchasing eligible products will receive the rebates by submitting an application and copy of receipt.

Up to $600 cash back is available for purchase of efficient heating units, between $1,000 and $2,000 for certain fuel efficient car models and $100 return for Energy Star appliance consumers from hydro communities and $200 for those who live in diesel communities.

"When people come in, let's face it, everyone is more conscious about the environment," said Strang. "It's usually what people are asking for unless their budget doesn't allow it.

In addition to electricity consumption, Strang said for items such as washers, water consumption should also be a consideration.

Typically, front loading machines can wash twice the load with half-as-much water compared to their top-loading counterparts.