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Author: Alyssa Heuchert

WHAT IS A DEEP ENERGY RETROFIT?

ALL ABOUT DEEP ENERGY RETROFITS

Whether your goal is to vastly reduce your energy usage, lower your monthly bills, help fight climate change, or all of the above, a deep energy retrofit can help you get there. 

A deep energy retrofit is an extensive renovation to an existing home with a focus on reducing energy usage. These types of projects typically involve upgrading or replacing multiple technologies at once. They’re different from individual renovations due to their scale, cost, and complexity. Homeowners considering deep energy retrofits should take a long view of house-related expenses and consider the total cost of ownership with such a project.  

Immediate and long-term benefits are available to homeowners undertaking deep energy retrofits. These projects can significantly improve home comfort and air quality while reducing energy consumption by between 50% and 100%. This is achieved primarily by improving exterior building components such as walls, roofs, windows, doors, and careful air sealing. After that, invest in energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, water heating systems, lighting, and appliances. On-site renewables like solar panels can help close the gap. Renovation projects targeting Net Zero Energy, Net Zero Ready, or Passive House certification are all examples of deep energy retrofit strategies. 

We’re here to make it easier to plan and carry out your renovation project. Through our Home Energy Retrofit program, we can provide you with guidance from an energy advisor and rebates to help with your project costs.  

WHERE TO START

An EnerGuide energy efficiency home evaluation is the best way to understand and make decisions about potential home upgrades. If you decide to apply to the Home Energy Retrofit program, you’ll need to have an EnerGuide evaluation performed on your home before you start work.  

Getting an EnerGuide evaluation doesn’t mean you have to proceed with any specific upgrade, but it’s the best way to understand your home’s energy use and opportunities for improvement. You may also be eligible for rebates for the cost of the evaluation through other programs like the Canada Greener Homes Grant. 

Local demand for scheduling an EnerGuide evaluation can vary and it may take some time to get yours in the calendar. It’s a good idea to plan your evaluation well in advance of when you’d like to start working on your project.

After carrying out the EnerGuide evaluation, your energy advisor will provide you with: 

  • an EnerGuide rating and label; 
  • a Homeowner Information Sheet; and 
  • a Renovation Upgrade Report. 

Learn more about EnerGuide evaluations.

ARE YOU READY TO RENOVATE?

If you’re interested in taking your home to the next level of energy efficiency, you may be eligible for our Home Energy Retrofit program. We can provide you with support and rebates to make the process of renovating easier.  

LEARN MORE
&
FIND OUT IF YOU QUALIFY

If you want to make energy efficiency upgrades to your home but don’t think the Home Energy Retrofit program is right for you, we have other programs that can help you save energy and money. Check them out to find your best fit. And if you’re not sure where to start, our free virtual energy review can provide you with helpful, customized recommendations on how to begin your energy efficiency journey. 

Regardless of what type of renovation project you decide to undertake, you’ll need to apply and receive approval from us before starting any work. We’re excited to help you along in your journey to save energy, money, and the environment.  

ARE YOU A BUSINESS OWNER?

If you’re interested in exploring a deep energy retrofit for your commercial building, check out our Deep Energy Retrofit Pilot Program.

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Programming your variable-speed pool pump

MAXIMIZE YOUR SUMMER SAVINGS

Properly programming your ENERGY STAR® certified variable-speed pool pump is essential to maximize your energy savings throughout the summer months. Doing so can help you save up to $300 on your energy bills each pool season.    

Variable-speed pool pumps save energy by using a scheduling feature. This allows you to program a time and speed (RPM) for when the pump will be running. Typical pools only need to have the water circulated fully twice per day.  

Follow these steps to properly program your variable-speed pool pump and save energy and money: 

  1. SET THE TIME ON YOUR POOL PUMP’S SCREEN
    Setting the correct time allows you to schedule your pump for certain times throughout the day.
  2. SCHEDULE A LOW-SPEED PUMPING TIME
    Scheduling your pump to run at a lower RPM for most of the day (approximately 18 to 22 hours) reduces your energy costs and is much quieter. For an average pool, set the speed between 1,500 RPM and 2,000 RPM.
  3. SCHEDULE A HIGHER-SPEED PUMPING TIME
    You’ll want to run your pump at a higher RPM for approximately two to four hours every day. This is an appropriate speed for backwashing and will clear out any air bubbles that can form in the pump and plumbing during the lower RPM period. For an average pool, set the speed to around 2,100 and 2,600 RPM.
in ENERGY SAVING TIPS, GREEN LIVING, PROGRAMS

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Partnerships make perfect

HELPING RED RIVER MÉTIS CITIZENS ACCESS ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAMS

Offering energy efficiency programs to Manitobans is what we do best, and partnerships play a big role in our work to help Manitobans save energy. These partnerships help us reach all Manitobans for their energy-savings needs. 

One partnership we’re excited to highlight is with the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF). The MMF is the democratic government for the Manitoba Métis, also known as the Red River Métis, the origin and core of the Métis Nation.  

To help support Red River Métis Citizens access energy efficiency programs for their homes and businesses, we’re funding an Energy Efficiency Advocate through the MMF. The Energy Efficiency Advocate will work out of the MMF Winnipeg office while also supporting the other six regional offices in promoting our programs and rebates.  

“The MMF is committed to creating partnerships and opportunities that continue to benefit our Red River Métis Citizens,” says Will Goodon, MMF Minister of Housing and Property Management. “We offer many programs that ensure we are creating long-lasting success for our Citizens, from our first-time homeowners program to our HELP initiative. The MMF will always make sure we have programs that help our Citizens thrive.”  

“Our partnership with Efficiency Manitoba through the Energy Efficiency Advocate is just one of the ways the Red River Métis government is looking out for our Citizens. We are excited to see how many Red River Métis Citizens will be able to access these energy efficiency programs for their homes and businesses.”

– Will Goodon, MMF Minister of Housing and Property Management

In addition to funding an Energy Efficiency Advocate, we have specific programs for Red River Métis Citizens:  

  • Our Métis Energy Efficiency Offers is an income-based program that provides homeowners and tenants with a turnkey solution for receiving energy efficiency upgrades. Through the free home energy check-up, you can receive a variety of energy-saving devices and find out if you qualify for free insulation or a subsidized natural gas furnace. 
  • Our Indigenous Small Business Program can help improve the energy efficiency in Métis Nation small businesses. We offer free lighting and other energy efficiency upgrades to Red River Métis Citizens who own a qualifying business registered with the Louis Riel Capital Corporation. 

Our Indigenous programs are committed to supporting local Indigenous economic development. Through our partnership with the MMF we will also look to work with Métis contractors registered with the Louis Riel Capital Corporation (LRCC). 

We’re also funding Energy Efficiency Advocates through our Indigenous Community Energy Efficiency Program in Ebb and Flow First Nation, Lake Manitoba First Nation, Lake St. Martin First Nation, O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation, Pine Creek First Nation, Red Sucker Lake First Nation, Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, and York Factory First Nation.  We’re also partnering with three other communities and are working to finalize their agreements. Over the two-year partnerships, we’ll support the Energy Efficiency Advocates in creating a community energy efficiency plan to help reduce the overall energy use in these First Nation communities. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM
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School’s almost out for summer

FUN ACTIVITES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Kids around the province rejoice: school’s almost out for summer! Keep them busy with these fun activities, and save some energy at home while you’re at it. 

SPLISH SPLASH WATER PARK

Splish Splash Water Park is a fun destination that the whole family can enjoy. The massive water park has two locations to choose from: Minnedosa and Morden. Both featuring a slide tower, jumping pillow, trampoline, and so much more! They have lifeguards on duty during operating hours and provide lifejackets so you can feel confident about your kids’ safety. Be sure to check their requirements before attending. 

CONNECT WITH ANIMALS & NATURE

Interacting with animals helps bolster confidence, empathy, and connection, and it’s a great opportunity to teach your kids about responsibility in a fun way. Consider visiting an animal shelter or a farm this summer to learn more about animals. If you want to be a bit more adventurous, go horseback riding at one of the many ranches in our province!   

NOT YOUR AVERAGE COMMUNITY TOUR

A great way to get out of the house and unplug from electronics is by taking a stroll through your community. While it may already be a regular part of your routine, you can step it up a notch by making a scavenger hunt out of it. Pick some landmarks in your area, whether it’s a statue, playground, or road sign, and create clues for your kids to solve. An even easier option is to make a list of things you’d find in nature, such as types of leaves, trees, or insects, and have your kids check them off as they go. It’s an easy way to make your regular family walks more exciting. 

PLAY A ROUND OF MINI GOLF

Mini golf is an easy and affordable activity for your family to enjoy. There are lots of mini golf courses throughout Manitoba, so you’re sure to find one close to home! While most are outdoors, there are some indoor locations available for rainy days. Find a location near you. 

JUMP INTO FUN AT A TRAMPOLINE PARK

You can have a blast and get some exercise at a trampoline park! Flying Squirrel Winnipeg is just one of the trampoline parks available, but it’s part of the largest indoor trampoline parks and features a variety of activities for you and your family to enjoy. Try out new moves on the freestyle courts, sink some baskets on the dunkhoops, or take a break and play some games in the arcade. You’re sure to be entertained for hours.  

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Reducing heating and cooling costs for Manitoba homes and businesses: Efficiency Manitoba offers new air source heat pump incentive program.

A new incentive program is now available to Manitobans who upgrade their heating system to a new, more energy-efficient alternative. Efficiency Manitoba’s Air Source Heat Pump Program will provide a financial incentive of up to $1.65 per square foot of heated space to eligible homeowners and small business owners who replace their existing heating system with an air source heat pump or cold climate air source heat pump. In a 1,600 square foot space, this provides an incentive of up to $2,640.

Air source heat pumps work as both a heating and cooling system and are designed to efficiently regulate indoor air temperature. Instead of creating heat by burning fossil fuels or powering an electric element, an air source heat pump uses a small amount of energy to pull the heat from the outdoor air to heat homes and buildings. In the summer months, it works in reverse by pushing warm air outside. This makes them an energy-efficient and environmentally friendly electric heating and cooling system.

“I commend Efficiency Manitoba on this new program announcement. By introducing incentives on air source heat pumps, Efficiency Manitoba is showing their commitment to helping Manitoba homes and business access energy-efficient heating solutions at a reduced cost,” said Minister of Environment, Climate and Parks and Minister responsible for Efficiency Manitoba Jeff Wharton.

The Air Source Heat Pump Program requires customers to work with a registered Efficiency Manitoba air source heat pump supplier.

“Working with the private sector is an important component of delivering energy efficiency to Manitobans,” said Wharton. “Programs like Efficiency Manitoba’s Air Source Heat Pump Program help to create and sustain green jobs, which positively benefits the Manitoba economy.”

The efficiency of air source heat pumps can result in significant annual energy bill savings. For example, replacing an electric furnace with a centrally-ducted cold climate air source heat pump in a 1,600 square foot home could save $500 per year in energy costs. This is in addition to the incentive provided by Efficiency Manitoba to reduce the upfront cost.

“We’re very pleased to introduce this program offering incentives on air source heat pumps,” said Colleen Kuruluk, Chief Executive Officer of Efficiency Manitoba. “Installing this energy- efficient heating and cooling technology can reduce heating costs by up to 30% when compared to an electric furnace. These persisting bill savings, in combination with our upfront financial incentive, help to make air source heat pumps and their resulting energy savings more accessible and affordable for Manitobans.”

Interested homeowners and businesses can learn more about Efficiency Manitoba’s Air Source Heat Pump Program by going to efficiencyMB.ca/ashp.

For more information, please email us at media@efficiencyMB.ca.

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Ground source heat pumps

HOW HEAT FROM THE GROUND CAN KEEP MONEY IN YOUR POCKET

Installing a ground source heat pump is one way Manitobans are increasing their comfort and savings all year long.

Ground source heat pumps (sometimes referred to as geothermal heat pumps) are a great way to increase the comfort level of any building without raising its environmental impact. Rather than burning fossil fuels or powering an electric element to create heat, ground source heat pumps move existing heat into or out of the ground through a loop of pipes.

“It’s a great way to use the resources in the ground,” says Michelle, who had a ground source heat pump installed at her home south of Treherne, Manitoba in October 2021. “We love the consistency of the temperature in the house now.”

Michelle hasn’t had a chance to try out the cooling mode yet, but she’s very happy with how thoroughly the ground source heat pump heats her home. With the electric furnace she used to have, the temperature would vary throughout her home with pockets of warm and cold air. This winter, her entire house was a consistent and comfortable temperature.

Paradise Geothermal installed the ground source heat pump at Michelle’s home. The company, based in Dunrea, Manitoba, has installed more than 1,000 ground source heat pumps for homes, churches, farm shops, and commercial buildings. Owner Gerard Paradis says other customers have also told him their comfort level was much higher with geothermal than other heating or cooling systems.

Besides the improved indoor comfort, ground source heat pumps can help people save money.

“If you are doing an electric heat retrofit, typically customers will see a reduction in their hydro bill by half,” Paradis says. “[The savings] add up over time.”

We also offer rebates of up to $2.50 per square foot of heated space to install a ground source heat pump to replace an existing electric or natural gas heating system.

“Efficiency Manitoba was very easy to deal with. Paradise Geothermal did the application, and I replied to the email and followed the very simple, straightforward process.”

– Michelle

INSTALLING A GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP

Paradis recommends following some key steps to make sure your ground source heat pump is safe, efficient, and effective for your home.

Before the installation process, your contractor needs to do a heat loss calculation on the building to get the sizing requirements for the heat pump. They’ll also determine the most suitable ground loop design.

For existing buildings, your contractor will make sure the ductwork can handle the increased airflow from the heat and the electrical panel can handle the load. This isn’t usually a concern for new buildings since the ductwork will be new and properly sized.

Your contractor will also check your property to see if anything is in the way, like trees, telephone poles, or cable, electrical, or gas lines.

Then you’re ready for installation.

The groundwork has to be done in the warmer months when the ground isn’t frozen and covered in snow. In Manitoba, that’s usually from April to the end of October, depending on the year.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

Paradis says customers should keep in mind some yard work will be required after your ground source heat pump is installed. The installer will fill any holes they made, then you can get started on seeding grass or completing any other landscaping.

Once the ground source heat pump is in operation, Michelle recommends leaving the temperature the same during the day and night.

“They work different than a normal furnace where you would change your temperature back during the evening. With the ground source heat pump, it’s better to leave the house consistent, and it’s way more efficient that way than it is changing the temperatures up and down like you try to do to save money with electric heating.”

– Michelle

To take part in our Heat Pump Program, start by finding an installer who is accredited by the Manitoba Geothermal Energy Alliance. They’ll help you through the application process. Once you receive approval from us, complete the project, and we’ll send you your incentive.

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All about air source heat pumps

HOW THEY CAN HELP YOU SAVE ENERGY

Looking for an energy-efficient heating and cooling system? Consider an air source heat pump. They transfer heat in the air from one place to another, using up to 30% less energy than standard electric heating systems. Air source heat pumps efficiently regulate the temperature in your home, working most efficiently when your thermostat is at a consistent temperature setting.

HOW AN AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP WORKS

An air source heat pump typically has both an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. As air travels between the units, a compressor circulates a high-pressure liquid refrigerant that absorbs and releases heat—the same process as your refrigerator. In winter, heat is pulled from the outdoor air to warm your home. In the summer months, it works in reverse, pushing warm air outside to cool your home.

CONVENTIONAL VERSUS COLD CLIMATE

There are two kinds of air source heat pumps: conventional and cold climate. While conventional heat pumps shut off when the outdoor temperature reaches -10°C, cold climate heat pumps can operate down to -25°C, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications. For that reason, cold climate air source heat pumps are more suitable in Manitoba.

It’s important to note that when it becomes too cold outside, an auxiliary heating source is required to maintain the warmth in your home. Air source heat pump output and performance reduces significantly as the temperature decreases. Ice can build up on the outdoor unit and automatically activate a defrost cycle. This reverses the air flow, pushing warm air through the outdoor coil to melt built up ice and should take only a few minutes.

WHICH TYPE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Air source heat pumps come in centrally ducted and ductless models. The best design for your needs depends on your existing heat source and building size.

CENTRALLY DUCTED

A centrally ducted heat pump uses forced-air ducting to distribute heating and cooling throughout your home. This allows air to reach individual rooms and heat the whole house. Your existing ducting may require modifications to support the heat pump system.

DUCTLESS

If your home uses heating from baseboards or a radiator, you likely don’t have ducting installed. In this case, a ductless air source heat pump would suit your needs.

We sometimes refer to ductless units as either mini-split or multi-split. A mini-split heat pump has one outdoor unit and one indoor head, usually mounted on the wall. To warm your entire home, you’ll need multiple indoor heads. This is called a multi- split.

A ductless air source heat pump is also a good option if part of your home requires additional heating and cooling or has an open concept floor plan. They’re also generally more affordable as they don’t require ductwork.

DUCTLESS MINI-SPLIT

DUCTLESS MULTI-SPLIT

NEXT STEPS

Before upgrading to an air source heat pump, our building science experts recommend you invest in your home’s envelope to reduce your heating and cooling needs. This can include air sealing, insulation, and windows and doors. Your contractor can help you determine if there are any improvements you should make prior to installing an air source heat pump. 

Once you’re ready to upgrade your heating system, we recommend getting quotes from at least three of our registered suppliers. The cost of installing an air source heat pump depends on the type of system, existing heating equipment, and ductwork in your home. 

An air source heat pump system is more expensive to install than a conventional heating and air conditioning system, but your annual heating costs can be lower than electric, propane, or fuel oil heating. 

We also offer rebates on select ductless and centrally ducted air source heat pumps! Be sure to check the list of eligible heat pumps and send us your application for approval before purchasing your heat pump or starting any work. 

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Working with non-profit housing organizations

HOW WE CAN HELP YOU & YOUR TENANTS SAVE

We’re here to create an energy-efficient Manitoba by providing support and services that help residents and businesses use less energy. If you’re a member of a non-profit housing organization, we can help you and your tenants save energy, money, and the environment. 

Through our Energy Efficiency Assistance Program, we work with non-profit housing organizations to help them upgrade their single-detached or semi-detached rental properties to use less energy. We’ll come to your housing organization to assess which energy-saving upgrades your units are eligible for. You could qualify for free insulation, a subsidized natural gas furnace, a boiler rebate, and free energy-saving devices such as LED light bulbs, energy-efficient showerheads, and faucet aerators. 

To ensure accessibility to the program, we don’t need to verify the income of each tenant or household! This makes it easier to implement energy-saving upgrades throughout your organization rather than on a tenant-by-tenant basis. If your non-profit housing agreement requires your tenants to income qualify, or if your mandate states that housing is intended for lower-income households, you can bypass the income qualification process. You can do this by providing your mandates, lease agreements, tenant handbooks, or proof that your tenant’s rent is below the Median Market Rents set by Manitoba Housing. 

Here’s how we helped two Manitoba non-profit housing organizations increase the energy efficiency of their rental units, allowing them and their tenants to save energy and money. 

SPRUCE WOODS HOUSING CO-OP

We recently worked with Spruce Woods Housing Co-op, a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing for low-income families and seniors. We were able to provide free insulation to help increase the efficiency and comfort of their rental units, and they can look forward to continued savings on their energy bills for years to come. 

Eva

This is what Eva Cameron, President of Board of Directors, had to say about their experience. 

“Our buildings are over 30 years old.  Over the years, we noticed that Hydro bills were becoming a burden to our members and tenants. Through the Energy Efficiency Assistance Program, we were able to make upgrades so that our members and tenants were able to save not only energy but money.   

“The process with Efficiency Manitoba was very straightforward and easy to implement. The folks at Efficiency Manitoba worked through the process with us from start to finish – making it a stress-free project.  I would recommend this program to other non-profit organizations that are looking to upgrade their insulation.” 

ANICINABE HOUSING CORPORATION

Anicinabe Housing Corporation is another recent participant in our Energy Efficiency Assistance Program. With free insulation and subsidized furnace upgrades, they’re able to save energy and money.  

“As a not-for-profit organization providing affordable housing to low- and medium-income families, money to maintain our 83 rental units is quite often very tight and spread very thin.” said Beryl Brandson, General Manager. “The Energy Efficiency Assistance Program helped us immensely when it came to upgrading the insulation and furnaces in our units.  

“The application process with Efficiency Manitoba was very easy and the staff were very helpful. They sent an energy advisor out first to inspect our units and note what upgrades were needed in each unit and everything snowballed quickly and efficiently from there. 

“I would highly recommend Efficiency Manitoba and their programs to anyone that requires energy efficient upgrades of their houses.” 

If you’re interested in participating or would like more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re more than happy to help. 

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Fukumoto Fitness

FLEXING STRONG SAVINGS THROUGH OUR SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

Manitoba small businesses are essential for not only building a strong local economy but also providing inviting spaces that encourage community bonds. This is especially true of Fukumoto Fitness, an award-winning fitness facility in Winnipeg’s North Kildonan neighbourhood. Owner Johnny Fukumoto recognized an opportunity to enhance his training rooms with brighter, more efficient lighting. Improved lighting would not only create a more inviting environment for his valued clients but also help him lower his energy bills. Being able to save some money each month was important to Johnny, considering the challenges COVID-19 has had on his business.  

“We’ve had to shut our gym down three times and reduce our capacity for many months,” remarked Johnny. “We have had challenges staffing our sessions due to people having to stay home, and we’ve had a hard time finding great people to hire as many have left the industry as a result.”  

At the same time, he was quick to note the resiliency of his staff.

“Our team has galvanized in tough times, and our response internally will stand out to our community. This is something we will all be proud of looking back.” 

Johnny Fukumoto

Needless to say, we were eager to support Johnny and his team. Our Small Business Program was able to help Fukumoto Fitness make energy efficiency upgrades by offering expert resources and significant financial assistance. 

THE PROJECT

We started off by providing Fukumoto Fitness with basic energy-saving devices. Technicians from Ecofitt, our contracted delivery agent for this program, installed low-flow faucet aerators and LED light bulbs in the facility for free. This helped Johnny save energy right away at no cost to his business.  

With the goal of creating a bright, inviting, and energy-efficient space, Johnny continued with further energy retrofits through our program’s Premium Upgrade, which offers businesses an incentive for energy efficient lighting upgrades. We helped him replace 145 inefficient linear fluorescent lamps with energy-saving LEDs.  

Johnny was pleased with how smooth the entire process was.

“The contractors who were on-site were very professional in the way they communicated. They did high-quality work in a short period of time.”

Johnny Fukumoto

The best part? We covered 70% of the entire project cost, so Johnny only had to pay a fraction of the total price.  More good news: he’ll get back his investment through energy bill savings in less than two years.  

THE FUTURE OF FUKUMOTO FITNESS

It’s been less than a year since Johnny received his upgrades, but he’s already noticing and appreciating the benefits of his energy-efficient space.  

“The lighting upgrades have made a big difference in the winter months, especially on overall mood and mental health,” he told us. He also acknowledged the longevity of his new lighting, so he’ll enjoy the benefits for years into the future. 

If you have a small business and you’re looking to save energy and money, we’re here to help. Take a look at our Small Business Program to learn more about the free upgrades and incentives you could receive. 

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Spring 2022 magazine

Our spring magazine is ready for you! 

Our magazines are full of advice to help you save energy, money, and the environment. You can read about our programs and offers, seasonal energy-saving tips, and other green living content. Be sure to keep it on hand so you can reference it whenever you need information about saving energy. 

Click the link below to access a digital version.

READ THE MAGAZINE

Download a digital version here.

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