Six newly named recipients of New Brunswick’s 2019 Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards include early adopters of energy and water-saving technology, long-time conservation advocates and service providers steering clients to power and cost savings. The honours were bestowed in conjunction with NB Power’s annual energy efficiency conference, held in Moncton last week.
“We are pleased to recognize the best of this province’s energy efficiency leaders and highlight the tremendous work they are doing,” affirms Gaëtan Thomas, president and chief executive officer of NB Power.
This year’s winners demonstrate how energy efficiency can support business strategy and consumers’ quality of life. The Innovation Award winner, ski resort operator, Crabbe Mountain, achieved both objectives through technology that injects a biodegradable corn by-product into the water used for making snow. The resulting increased volume of snow resulted in four million gallons in water savings and a 98-megawatt-hour (MWh) electricity saving attributable to reduced operation of energy-intensive pumps and compressors, while also extending the ski season, as ski runs could open earlier and better withstand milder temperatures.
Education Award winner, EOS Eco Energy Inc., literally delivers energy efficiency in a party setting. Draft-proofing work parties are part of the Sackville-based community organization’s portfolio of programs, offering up a certified energy advisor to facilitate the three-hour instructional and hands-on events. EOS Eco Energy supplies the materials to draft-proof the host venue and, equally importantly, teach homeowners and their guests how to do it.
Tobique First Nation, the Community Award recipient, has integrated energy efficiency and green energy into its economic development and future growth strategy. The award recognizes the implementation of a community energy plan underpinning the goal of total reliance on renewable power by 2050. That includes plans for solar and wind generation to replace diesel-fired power supply, and a complementary focus on energy-efficient housing through retrofits and energy-efficient new construction.
The Conservation Council of New Brunswick received the Legacy Award in acknowledgement of 50 years of advocacy for environmental protection. That’s recently been channelled into the Climate and Energy Solutions program, an initiative to inform New Brunswickers about the repercussions of an increasingly volatile climate and the opportunities the low-carbon economy presents.
Renewable energy developer, Naveco Power Inc., and energy service provider, MCW Maricor, rounded out the slate of award winners. Naveco Power received the Rising Star Award, which recognizes newcomer companies or individuals younger than 30. MCW Maricor received the Partnership Award for its work with NB Power in delivering energy efficiency programs.
