Andrew Raven
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Nov 16/05) - The average Northwest Territories home could receive between $500 and $1,000 in rebates this winter for simple renovations, like replacing old insulation and switching to long-lasting light bulbs.

Steve Outlet checks a Yellowknife home for heat leaks. Residents who upgrade their insulation, lighting and water heaters could be eligible for up to $1,000 in rebate. - Andrew Raven/NNSL photo

The money, announced late last month, is part of a $1.15-million territorial government plan to promote energy efficiency.

The territorial government will match rebates from the federal government.

The non-profit Arctic Energy Alliance will spearhead most of the programs, which executive director Dr. David Malcolm believes will have short and long-term benefits for homeowners.

Owners of the average three-bedroom home who replace aging insulation in the attic and basement, switch to long-lasting light bulbs, insulate their water heater and install programmable thermostats would receive about $1,000 in rebates, Malcolm said.

"The benefit of this program is that it recognizes people who retrofit," he said. The rebates are available to business and non-profit organization.

Nearly 40 per cent of the $1.15-million will go towards advertising, something Malcolm said is essential in the smaller communities where the benefits of conservation are not well publicized.