Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories encourages the efficient use of energy. By reducing energy consumption, we save money and reduce emissions of greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
The Energy Conservation Capital Program is available to assist territorial and community-funded departments, boards and agencies as well as non-profit organizations in reducing their energy consumption. This program is administered by the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development. It provides funding for projects that reduce the use of water, electricity and heat.
During the past fiscal year, fifteen projects have been approved with resulting savings expected to exceed $140,000 annually. Eight of the projects involve the conversion to more energy-efficient lighting systems. Other projects include mechanical and electrical system upgrades or replacements, a series of energy management training workshops and a workshop on climate change.
These projects are benefiting three different government departments, four communities, one education district, three non-profit organizations and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Mr. Speaker, it is estimated that these projects will reduce annual electrical consumption by more than 600,000 kilowatt hours. This is the equivalent to the average electrical consumption of 60 houses. In addition, the annual production of carbon dioxide, which contributes to global warming, will be reduced by more that 400 tonnes.
The Energy Conservation Capital Program was developed in the mid 1980's. Since 1990, a variety of programs have resulted in a savings of $6.70 in utility costs, 11.5 million kilowatt hours of electricity have been saved, and the production of carbon dioxide has been reduced by 8,000 tonnes. This small but highly effective program contributes significantly to saving energy, saving money and reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. It will continue to play an effective role as we work to develop our Greenhouse Gas Strategy. Mahsi cho.
--Applause