THUNDER BAY — More than 26,000 of Thunder Bay's 33,000 single detached homes were built prior to 1980, meaning there could be significant benefits from upgrading their energy efficiency.
It's why the city is exploring the feasibility of a home energy improvement program, which would provide access to financing for necessary improvements.
City officials believe100 per cent of dwellings constructed before 1980 require retrofitting, and that space and water-heating should be switched to low-carbon sources to meet the requirements of Thunder Bay's net-zero greenhouse gas emissions plan.
The plan sets a goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.
As part of the feasibility study, the city has launched an online survey of interested residents.
It includes questions such as the age of their home, what it's made of, the general area it's located in, how many people reside in it, how the house is insulated, and how it's heated.
The survey is available until May 15.
On the same website, residents may also sign up to share their input during either of two public engagement sessions on May 12.
"Improving the energy efficiency of your home can reduce energy bills, make your home more comfortable, and contribute to the city's goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions," says Summer Stevenson, sustainability coordinator for EarthCare Thunder Bay.
It's estimated that the energy Thunder Bay residents use to heat, cool, and power their homes represents 18 per cent of the city's annual greenhouse gas emissions.
Although a financing plan for Thunder Bay won't necessarily be the same, residents of Toronto are currently eligible for a low-interest loan of up to $75,000 for a variety of upgrades, repayable over a period of up to 20 years.
