NB energy efficiency program deadline around the corner

FREDERICTON — New Brunswick transportation companies looking to take part in the provincial Climate Action Fund (ecoTrust) have until Jan. 31, 2008 to submit their applications.

The program (see details by following link below) provides financial support for eligible projects that support the emissions reduction objectives outlined in the New Brunswick Climate Change Action Plan. The $34 million provided by the Government of Canada’s ecoTrust is to be distributed over a three-year period.

Climate Change Action Plan Emissions Reduction objectives, include: Energy Efficiency ; Clean and Renewable Energy Opportunities; Transportation-related Emissions Reductions; Improved Waste Management; Industrial Emissions Reductions; Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Government Operations

With the assistance of federal initiatives, this plan will result in a reduction of New Brunswick’s greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels in 2012 and position the province to realize further reductions of 10 percent below 1990 levels by 2020, according to the government.

On transportation issues, the province will, among other initiatives, develop an Intelligent Transportation Strategy to position New Brunswick as a national leader in transportation technology and also to help reduce emissions from the transportation sector.

It will work with the trucking industry on such things as examining opportunities for engine efficiency and aerodynamics technologies in order to reduce pollutants and greenhouse gases. Also, the government will partner with carriers and other jurisdictions on implementing a strategy of limiting truck speeds to 105 km/h.

Furthermore, New Brunswickers will be offered incentives to switch to alternative fuel, biofuel, and fuel-efficient vehicles. And municipal associations and communities will be encouraged to develop a model anti-idling policy for use by local jurisdictions.