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Author: Alyssa Heuchert

PROJECT FEATURE: HARRIS MEATS & GROCERIES

KEEPING THINGS COOL & ENERGY EFFICIENT

If your business relies on refrigeration equipment, you’re likely no stranger to high monthly bills and product spoilage. Through our Commercial Refrigeration Program, you can get financial incentives on energy efficiency upgrades to help you save on your energy bills — like Harris Meats & Groceries on Arlington Street in Winnipeg. 

THE PROJECT

Winnipeg’s Harris Meats & Groceries was looking for ways to reduce their energy bills and maintenance costs. Much of their existing equipment was outdated, including their display coolers, freezer cases, and older, inefficient compressors and condensing units. Once they learned about our Commercial Refrigeration Program, it was an easy decision to apply.  

A trusted supplier, RAC Services, upgraded Harris Meats & Groceries’ refrigeration system by installing EcoVision glass doors, LED refrigeration lighting, ECM evaporator fan motors, and a high-efficiency protocol system. 

These upgrades not only streamlined the store’s operations but also enhanced their overall product presentation, creating a better experience for employees and customers. Each product category now has its own bright showcase with improved temperature control, the refrigeration systems are now enclosed in one high-efficiency control panel, and all upgraded equipment is quieter and requires less maintenance. 

“Before the display case upgrades, there were occasional leaks, and employees frequently had to remove and replace products for repairs, maintenance, or cleaning. This process was not only labour-intensive but also inefficient,”

— Adrian Roman, Harris Meats & Groceries Controller

A few customers from the neighbourhood were so impressed by the store’s upgrades that they shared their experiences on Facebook, highlighting how the improved look and fresher products made their shopping trips far more enjoyable.

THE SAVINGS

After the upgrades, Harris Meats & Groceries noticed an immediate impact on their monthly energy bills. Rather than the usual $2,500 to $3,000, their bill was closer to $1,500. They’re expected to save nearly 276,000 kWh (kilowatt-hours) of electricity each year, which translates to around $16,000 in savings annually on their energy bills. We also provided them with a $35,000 incentive for their upgrades!

“The support and responsiveness from the program team at Efficiency Manitoba was impressive, making the transition smooth,” said Andrian. “And the incentives and cost savings are a significant help, especially for a small business like ours.”

THE PROCESS

Participating in our Commercial Refrigeration Program is simple. First, check to make sure you’re eligible and complete your application. Once you receive approval from us for your upgrades, you can purchase and install your energy-efficient equipment. Then you just send us your completed documentation along with the invoices and we’ll send you a cheque to cover your approved expenses!

“The incentives and cost savings stand out! Plus, the focus on energy efficiency perfectly aligns with our sustainability goals,” remarked Andrian. 

ARE YOU A BUSINESS OWNER?

Business owners or contractors can apply for financial incentives through the Commercial Refrigeration Program. Check out our incentive guide for more details on our incentive rates and eligibility requirements.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
COMMERCIAL REFRIGERATION PROGRAM

ARE YOU A SUPPLIER OR CONTRACTOR?

If you’re a supplier or contractor, we encourage you to join our supplier network. You’ll be listed on our website as a registered Efficiency Manitoba supplier and can offer our programs to your customers. You’ll also have access to training opportunities and materials offered by our team of experts, and you can promote our energy efficiency programs in your advertising. The best part? It’s free to register and participate!  

JOIN OUR
SUPPLIER NETWORK
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PROJECT FEATURE: THE HIVE

HOW WE HELPED THE HIVE CLIMB TO SIGNIFICANT SAVINGS

The Hive, Winnipeg’s first modern climbing gym, recently participated in our Business Lighting Program — and their energy savings are reaching new heights! 

Through our program, they upgraded all the overhead lights in their main gym space to energy-efficient LED fixtures. Because of this upgrade, they’ll save an astounding 19,000 kWh of electricity every year. We also gave them an incentive of $3,300 for participating and they can expect to save $950 annually on their energy bills. 

Kori Cuthbert, Managing Partner of The Hive, had this to say about his experience: 

“Efficiency Manitoba’s Business Lighting Program made upgrading our old lighting to LEDs less of a financial impact to our business, allowing us to upgrade our lighting, save money, and see the benefits of the energy savings sooner!” 

ARE YOU A BUSINESS OWNER?

Business owners or contractors can apply for financial incentives through the Business Lighting Program. Check out our program guide for more details on our incentive rates and eligibility requirements.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
BUSINESS LIGHTING PROGRAM

ARE YOU A LIGHTING SUPPLIER OR CONTRACTOR?

If you’re a supplier or contractor, we encourage you to join our supplier network. You’ll be listed on our website as a registered Efficiency Manitoba supplier and can offer our programs to your customers. You’ll also have access to training opportunities and materials offered by our team of experts, and you can promote our energy efficiency programs in your advertising. The best part? It’s free to register and participate! 

JOIN OUR
SUPPLIER NETWORK
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PROJECT FEATURE: ROCKY MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT

SAVING ON ENERGY BILLS WITH LED LIGHTING

If you’re a business owner wanting to upgrade your building with more energy-efficient lighting, take advantage of the financial incentives available through our Business Lighting Program! With the help of a trusted supplier and our incentives, Rocky Mountain Equipment’s Russell Manitoba location was able to upgrade the lighting in their offices and shop, as well as on the exterior of their building. This upgrade gives them brighter, energy-efficient, and cost-effective fixtures to make their business shine. 

THE PROJECT

David Mryglod, Parts Manager at Rocky Mountain Equipment in Russell, heard about Efficiency Manitoba and our Business Lighting Program after other company locations made similar upgrades. His team had great previous experiences with Ashley Mackedenski from Elite Lighting Ltd., so it was a no-brainer to work with him again. “Ashley made the process seamless and looked after everything,” said David. “He kept the disruption to a minimum and came in after-hours to do most of the installation.”  

Ashley removed 45 individual 400W high pressure sodium (HPS) fixtures and 45 T5HO 2 x 4’ fluorescent fixtures and replaced them with LEDs.    

THE SAVINGS

With this upgrade, Rocky Mountain Equipment is expected to save over 33,000 kWh (kilowatt-hours) of electricity each year, which translates to around $1,650 in yearly savings on their energy bills. We provided them with a $14,190 incentive for their upgrades, which includes our 25% customer bonus.

“I was surprised at the incentive amount. I didn’t know that’s how much of the project would be covered.”

David Mrygold, Parts Manager 

THE PROCESS

Our online application system makes it easy to get approved for savings! Through myEM, business owners can apply on their own or have contractors apply on their behalf.  

After reviewing your application, our team will clearly outline the estimated incentive for your proposed upgrades before you commit to the project, giving you plenty of time to discuss and review your budget. 

For this project, Ashley from Elite Lighting Ltd. applied on behalf of Rocky Mountain Equipment in November 2023, and the application was approved two days later. Ashley installed the new lighting in December and submitted the final paperwork. A few short weeks later, Rocky Mountain Equipment received their incentive cheque. 

ARE YOU A BUSINESS OWNER?

Business owners or contractors can apply for financial incentives through the Business Lighting Program. Check out our program guide for more details on our incentive rates and eligibility requirements.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
BUSINESS LIGHTING PROGRAM

ARE YOU A LIGHTING SUPPLIER OR CONTRACTOR?

If you’re a supplier or contractor, we encourage you to join our supplier network. You’ll be listed on our website as a registered Efficiency Manitoba supplier and can offer our programs to your customers. You’ll also have access to training opportunities and materials offered by our team of experts, and you can promote our energy efficiency programs in your advertising. The best part? It’s free to register and participate! 

JOIN OUR
SUPPLIER NETWORK
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AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

FIVE THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE INSTALLING AN AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP

Air source heat pump technology has improved immensely over the last decade, and they can function well in Manitoba’s extreme climate. They provide clean energy and can help you save energy and money on your energy bills. Here are five important things to consider before you decide to upgrade, especially in Manitoba’s climate: 

  1. Your air source heat pump should be designed to operate in cold temperatures — these are called cold climate air source heat pumps. They can operate in lower temperatures than standard air source heat pumps. 
  2. While air source heat pumps do function in colder temperatures, an electric or natural gas back-up heating source is required in Manitoba by code. Your back-up heating source will turn on when the temperature outside drops below your heat pump’s operating temperature. 
  3. In cold weather, air source heat pumps can produce condensation when they operate in defrost mode. We recommend installing your unit away from sidewalks to avoid potential slipping hazards and ice build-up on your heat pump. 
  4. Air source heat pumps need to be located above the snow in the winter; this is achieved by installing them on a stand or brackets. If your unit is installed on a stand, it needs to be on concrete pads or blocks to keep it stable. Units installed on brackets may require vibration pads. In any case, you may still need to shovel snow from around your unit. 
  5. Air source heat pumps produce both sound and vibration. While many units are under 60 decibels, be sure to check how much sound your specific unit will produce. We also recommend installing the units away from bedroom windows. 

While air source heat pumps are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly heating and cooling systems, it’s important to carefully consider the items outlined above to determine if an air source heat pump is right for you. If you have any questions that are specific to your home, we recommend reaching out to a registered Efficiency Manitoba supplier. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP REBATE

Check out the rest of our articles in our heat pump series.

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EFFICIENCY MANITOBA CONTINUES TO DELIVER ENERGY BILL SAVINGS FOR FAMILIES & BUSINESSES

2023/24 Annual Report shows increasing levels of energy savings achieved, including higher than planned natural gas savings; results provide significant environmental & affordability benefits

Following tabling of reports in the Manitoba legislature, Efficiency Manitoba published their 2023/24 annual results for their fourth year of operations. Reporting includes highlights, accomplishments, financial statements, and independently verified and evaluated 2023/24 energy savings information. 

As required by the Efficiency Manitoba Act, electricity and natural gas savings were tabulated and verified by an independent assessor. The results show that in the 2023/24 fiscal year, Efficiency Manitoba’s total electricity savings reached 84% of their legislated target of 1.5% of electric load, while natural gas savings exceeded target, reaching 119% of the legislated target of 0.75% of volume. These savings were realized under their annual budget, meaning results and savings were achieved even more cost effectively than planned. 

“Efficiency Manitoba’s 2023/24 fiscal year results show that prioritizing energy efficiency as a ‘first fuel’ is an effective way to meet a portion of Manitoba’s energy needs,” said Tracy Schmidt, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. “As we collectively carry out the objectives outlined in Manitoba’s Affordable Energy Plan, Efficiency Manitoba’s role is imperative in keeping energy bills low, improving affordability for families and businesses, and moving towards a clean, reliable energy future for our province. The electricity and natural gas savings achieved in 2023/24 indicate they are well positioned to deliver on these bold objectives to the benefit of all Manitobans.” 

Strong interest and participation in Efficiency Manitoba’s offers resulted in the legislated natural gas savings target being exceeded in 2023/24. Along with this came the additional benefit of significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to Manitoba’s climate change and net-zero commitments. In 2023/24, Efficiency Manitoba’s work with Manitobans saved 29,100 CO2 eq tonnes of emissions, achieving 113% of their annual target. To the end of the 2023/24 fiscal year, persisting cumulative greenhouse gas emissions reductions represent over 193,000 tonnes since 2020/21. 

“I would like to recognize Efficiency Manitoba’s many accomplishments in the 2023/24 fiscal year and since becoming operational in 2020,” said Dr. Jeannette Montufar-MacKay, Chair of Efficiency Manitoba’s Board of Directors. “We’re seeing significant interest in Efficiency Manitoba’s energy efficiency offers, which suggests Manitobans are truly seeing the value in making energy-saving upgrades and choices — both for themselves and for our future as a province. Efficiency Manitoba’s financial incentives and expert assistance are increasingly making it possible for all Manitobans to engage in energy affordability and climate action in a manner that’s meaningful to them, and this is made clear by these impressive annual results.” 

Other achievements outlined in the 2023/24 Annual Report and Annual Report Supplement include the following: 

  • Efficiency Manitoba’s investment in energy efficiency for Manitobans has been increasing every year. As more homes and businesses participate in energy efficiency offers, Efficiency Manitoba continues to provide more incentive dollars to participants. The 2023/24 fiscal year saw the greatest number of incentive dollars paid out to Manitobans since Efficiency Manitoba’s inception. Over $36 million in customer incentives was provided in 2023/24, more than double the $17 million in customer incentives paid out in Efficiency Manitoba’s commencement year. The result is a positive year-over-year trajectory of putting money back into the pockets of Manitobans. 
  • Efficiency Manitoba helped Manitobans save $15.9 million on their energy bills in 2023/24 (including both electric and natural gas savings as well as the federal carbon charge). 
  • Efficiency Manitoba’s customer satisfaction is very high, with nearly 90% of customers indicating they were highly satisfied with their experience with Efficiency Manitoba when making energy efficiency upgrades. 

“From exceeding our natural gas savings target to delivering more incentive dollars than ever before, there’s truly so much to be proud of when looking at how much Efficiency Manitoba has achieved with the participation of Manitoba households and businesses,” said Colleen Kuruluk, Chief Executive Officer of Efficiency Manitoba. “These results provide a stable foundation as Manitoba moves away from fossil fuels and into a more electricity-focused future. Efficiency Manitoba is ready to do our part in navigating the energy transition with diverse offers, financial assistance, and a clear vision of a more affordable and energy-efficient future for everyone who lives and works here.”  

The 2023/24 Annual Report and Annual Report Supplement can be accessed at efficiencyMB.ca/document-library. 

About Efficiency Manitoba

Efficiency Manitoba is Manitoba’s Crown corporation dedicated to energy efficiency. With legislated long-term energy savings targets to achieve, the organization has over 40 diverse offers available to help Manitobans save energy, money, and the environment.  

Release date: October 15, 2024

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AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

TIPS FOR USING & MAINTAINING YOUR AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP

Air source heat pumps are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly systems that provide heating and cooling in one unit. Plus, they can save you up to 30% on your electric heating and cooling costs! 

If you’ve installed an air source heat pump, it’s important to know how to use and maintain your system so it runs as efficiently as possible. This is especially important during shoulder seasons — that is, in the spring and fall — when temperatures can change drastically day-to-day (or even hour-to-hour!). 

Here are some ways to use your air source heat pump as efficiently as possible: 

SET IT & FORGET IT

Heat pumps work best and use less energy when they maintain a steady temperature. If you turn yours down when you’re away from home, it can end up using more energy than if you left it at the temperature you usually use. This is different than the advice you typically hear for natural gas heating systems, which suggests turning the temperature down during heating season when you’re away from home; air source heat pumps work harder to reach the set temperature than they do when you keep the system at a consistent temperature. It’s a good idea to pick a temperature that’s comfortable for you and avoid adjusting it when possible. 

AVOID “AUTO” MODE

In “auto” mode, air source heat pumps keep a steady temperature by switching between heating and cooling depending on the temperature outside (and in your home). This can cause your system to turn on cooling mode by accident during a sunny winter day or turn on the heat during a cool summer night, making it run more than necessary. To prevent your air conditioning from turning on by mistake in the winter, set your system to “heat mode” for the season. In the summer, do the opposite and set your system to “cool mode.” 

SCHEDULE REGULAR MAINTENACE & INSPECTIONS

Maintaining your air source heat pump ensures it works efficiently, saving you energy and money. You should schedule maintenance every year or two, but be sure to check your system’s user guide to know what’s best for your system. It’s also a good idea to book a maintenance appointment with your installer during the opposite season from when your system was installed. For example, if your system was installed in the summer, get your maintenance done in the winter. This ensures your system works efficiently for both seasons and keeps you comfortable whether it’s in heating or cooling mode. 

CHANGE OR REPLACE YOUR FILTERS

Heat pumps will run most efficiently when the dust filters are clean and clear of dust or debris. Changing or replacing your filters regularly improves the efficiency of your system and the indoor air quality of your home. How often you need to change or replace your filters depends on how often you use your heat pump and how much dust accumulates over time. However, changing them with the change in the season — about four times a year — makes the task easy to remember. 

KEEP YOUR VENTS & UNIT CLEAR

Check both the indoor vents and the outdoor unit often to make sure they have sufficient airflow. Keep the space around the vents clear of furniture or curtains and clear any snow or leaves from around the outdoor unit. This will ensure your unit has proper airflow and doesn’t need to work harder than necessary to circulate air through the system. 

Following these tips will help keep your air source heat pump running as effectively and efficiently as possible, helping to save you energy and money. 

If you don’t have an air source heat pump and are considering an upgrade, check out our air source heat pump rebate! 

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP REBATE

Check out the rest of our articles in our heat pump series.

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PROJECT FEATURE: HAZELVIEW PROPERTIES 

THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY UPGRADES ON APARTMENT COMMUNITIES 

Are you a property manager or owner of a multi-unit residential building? Discover how you can increase your building’s energy efficiency and reduce utility bills through our In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program.   

The In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program is a full-service program that enables apartments, townhouses, condominiums, assisted living facilities, and personal care homes across Manitoba to cut down on energy consumption and costs, benefiting both residents and the environment.  

Our program offers two levels of upgrades:   

  • Basic Upgrades include free A-line LED bulbs, bathroom and kitchen faucet aerators, showerheads, shower timers, and other energy saving items, installed at no cost.  
  • Premium Upgrades include all Basic Upgrades, plus incentives of up to $250 per suite which goes towards the installation of smart thermostats and advanced heat recovery ventilator (HRV) controls, by a certified electrician.  

THE PROJECT

Hazelview Properties pride themselves on achieving “Green Building” certification through a combination of BOMA BEST and the Canadian Certified Rental Building Program for all the buildings they manage. “At Hazelview, we aim for continuous improvement and one of our key sustainability pillars is Resource Efficiency which focuses on improving efficiency of our buildings and operations,” said Trevor McLeod, Sustainability Manager of Hazelview Properties. “By completing thorough energy audits at our properties, we know the majority of energy and water use consumed at a property is within the individual suites.”  

By participating in our In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program, two of their Winnipeg apartment buildings at 15 Arden Avenue and 33 Hargrave Street were able to improve their lighting while reducing energy and water consumption in their suites, helping them to achieve their sustainability goals.  

Through the In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program, the two buildings combined received 1,268 new LED bulbs, 189 bathroom faucet aerators, 298 kitchen faucet aerators, 401 showerheads, 360 shower timers, and 360 window weatherization kits, all at no cost.

THE SAVINGS

With their suite upgrades, not only will Hazelview Properties now have a reduced environmental footprint, but they can also expect to save over 165,000 kWh (kilowatt-hours) of electricity and over 65,000 m3 (cubic metres) in natural gas each year. This  translates to nearly $25,000 in estimated annual savings on their energy bills.  

“By implementing impactful programs like the In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program, we can make meaningful reductions in energy consumption. While we are still in the early phases of analyzing our utility data after installing the In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program, we can already see tangible results.”

— Trevor McLeod, Sustainability Manager of Hazelview Properties

THE PROCESS

Participating in the program is easy. You apply, and we take care of the rest!  

Once you apply and your eligibility is verified, our third-party service provider Ecofitt, will contact you to review the process, gather building information, and schedule your Basic Upgrade installation.  

When they arrive, they’ll complete the Basic Upgrades and assess your eligibility for smart thermostat and advanced HRV control upgrades for each suite. For eligible suites who wish to proceed with a Premium Upgrade, they will arrange for a certified electrician to complete the installation, and we’ll provide incentives of $100 per smart thermostat and $150 per advanced HRV control (up to $250 per suite).

Ready to reduce your energy bills? Apply for our In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program today and start your journey towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future! 

APPLY NOW
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PROJECT FEATURE: ADAM’S AUTOGLASS

HOW LIGHTING UPGRADES CAN BRIGHTEN BUSINESS & BRING IN SAVINGS

Our Business Lighting Program offers financial incentives for businesses who complete energy-efficient lighting upgrades in their buildings. Adam’s Autoglass, an automotive repair shop located in Roblin, upgraded their lighting with our help, resulting in a brighter space, reduced energy use, and monthly energy bill savings. 

THE PROJECT

Adam Smith, owner of Adam’s Autoglass, heard about our Business Lighting Program through a friend who just installed new lights at his shop. Adam started his own upgrade in March 2024, and the team at Boyce Electric upgraded his existing T12 fixtures with 56 new LED fixtures. “I absolutely love the new lights,” said Adam. “I needed to brighten my shop, and the new lights definitely do the job!”  

THE SAVINGS

With brand new LEDs, Adam’s Autoglass is expected to save 14,400 kWh of electricity every year, which translates to about $480 annually on their energy bills. On top of this, Adam received a $1,370 incentive toward the upgrades, which includes the additional 25% customer bonus we’re offering on lighting projects completed before March 31, 2025.  

THE PROCESS

Upgrading your building and increasing energy efficiency in your business is an easy process. Through myEM, business owners can apply on their own or have contractors apply on their behalf.  

After reviewing your application, our team will outline the incentive for your proposed upgrades before you commit to the project. This way you have plenty of time to discuss and review your budget.  

“The whole process was super simple,” said Adam. “My energy bill is about $40 less every month. Now the shop looks great, and I’m saving energy and money!” 

ARE YOU A BUSINESS OWNER?

Business owners or contractors can apply for financial incentives through the Business Lighting Program on our website. Check out our program guide for more information on our incentive rates and eligibility requirements. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
BUSINESS LIGHTING PROGRAM

ARE YOU A LIGHTING SUPPLIER OR CONTRACTOR?

If you’re a supplier or contractor, we highly encourage you to join our supplier network. You’ll be listed on our website as a registered Efficiency Manitoba supplier and can offer our programs to your customers. You’ll also have access to training opportunities and materials offered by our team of experts and can promote our energy efficiency programs in your advertising. The best part? It’s free to register and participate! 

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BDC SMALL BUSINESS WEEK 2023

INTRODUCING OUR CONTEST WINNERS

In celebration of the 2023 BDC Small Business Week™, we hosted a contest on behalf of our Small Business Program and Indigenous Small Business program to give four small businesses in Manitoba the energy efficiency upgrades they needed for free. 

The four winners of this contest received a free Premium Upgrade and a $500 credit on their energy bill. 

The first winner we’re featuring is Rae’s Bistro, a local restaurant located in Winnipeg’s North Kildonan neighbourhood.  

RAE’S BISTRO

From their humble beginnings in 2018 to the vibrant dining experience offered today, the owners of Rae’s Bistro, Danny Van Lancker and Jillian Flynn, have always ensured that social and environmental responsibility are top of mind. Rae’s Bistro began as a small local food establishment, relying on a limited set of cutlery and upcycled furniture. Fast forward to today, Rae’s Bistro boasts an elegant selection of local beer, fine wine, craft cocktails, and homemade comfort food, all in an upbeat environment.  

Danny and Jillian were looking to make even more improvements to their restaurant. By participating in our 2023 Small Business Week contest, Rae’s Bistro was able to make energy efficiency upgrades to their lighting systems at no cost. As one of the winners of the contest, they upgraded 40 fluorescent lamps to energy-efficient LED lamps, and we covered all project costs. They can expect to save nearly 1,200 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity every year.  

We covered 100% of the labour and material costs as part of the contest prize and awarded Rae’s Bistro with a $500 energy bill credit. Now their team can continue to offer a delightful dining experience, all while saving energy.  

“Rae’s Bistro is our dream; we have put everything we own financially and emotionally into it. This spring we started the next phase of our redesign and renovation, and the already completed lighting upgrades will be a huge asset.” 

— Danny, Co-owner of Rae’s Bistro

ESDALE PRINTING COMPANY

Esdale Printing Company is a commercial printing facility that’s been serving Winnipeg since 1935. Operating out of the St Boniface Industrial Park, they offer office printing, digital services, signage, display prints, and more. The company prides itself on being a leader in the sustainable printing industry within Manitoba. 

“Esdale is very focused on being the most environmental printer in Manitoba,” said Darren Hughesman, President of Esdale Printing. “We use only certified FSC papers and are one of only a few FSC certified printers in Manitoba.”  

As one of the winners of our 2023 Small Business Week contest, Esdale Printing was awarded a $500 energy bill credit, and we covered 100% of the labour and material costs of their facility’s energy-efficient lighting upgrade. We helped them make significant upgrades to their lighting systems which included new, energy-efficient LED linear lamps, occupancy sensors, and dimmers. These changes will result in them saving approximately 10,000 kWh of electricity each year and $500 annually on their energy bills.

Thanks to Efficiency Manitoba’s Small Business Program, Esdale Printing can combat rising costs due to inflation while continuing to provide exceptional printing services in a facility that now uses less energy.   

“With the help of Efficiency Manitoba, we were able to reduce costs and become more energy efficient at the same time.” 

— Darren Hughesman, President of Esdale Printing

CB ASPIRE

In 2019, CB Aspire founder Carina Blankenspoor started her salon in the rural community of Rivers. She started out as the sole stylist, but through a lot of hard work, she expanded the salon and spa to host a team of six professionals, consisting of two other stylists, a nail technician, a tattoo artist, and a massage therapist.  

Carina prides herself on being able to help others fulfill their dream careers without the burden of start-up costs associated with starting a business. Growing her team has enabled the salon and spa to offer new services that wouldn’t otherwise be available in their small town.   

CB Aspire faced high energy costs, especially during the colder months.

“Being located in an older building, we noticed that some upgrades were needed. We are very excited about our new upgrades to our attic insulation as well as our lights and thermostat.” 

— Carina, Founder of CB Aspire

As a winner of our Small Business Week contest, CB Aspire received significant energy-efficient lighting and insulation upgrades, including pitched roof attic insulation, LED linear lamps, exit signs, occupancy sensors, and a smart thermostat.  

In total, these improvements are projected to deliver over 10,400 kWh in electricity savings, which translates to over $500 in annual savings on their energy bills.  

INKED AND OILED

Inked and Oiled Essentials Spa offers spa treatments, esthetics services, and natural products for their customers in Oak Lake. They wanted to upgrade their lighting to help their business stand out and inspire the people they serve to do some energy efficiency upgrades of their own.  

As one of the winners of our 2023 Small Business Week contest, Inked and Oiled received a $500 credit on their energy bill along with free premium energy efficiency upgrades. We covered 100% of the labor and material costs for their lighting system upgrade, which included LED bulbs, LED linear lamps, LED specialty lamps, and occupancy sensors. Because of their upgrade, they can expect annual electricity savings of over 1,250 kWh! 

Reflecting on the impact, business owner Kim Houston remarked, “Winning this prize has made me a lot more aware of my energy use. Everything about the program was great and all of the people we dealt with were awesome!”  

ARE YOU A SMALL BUSINESS OWNER?

If you’re the owner of a small business and looking to make energy efficiency upgrades, we can help! Our small business programs are full-service solutions to help your business become more energy efficient. We’ll install free basic energy-saving products and complete a free lighting and pitched roof attic insulation assessment of your business to see if you could benefit from a Premium Upgrade. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM
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LOOKING TO SAVE ENERGY & MONEY?

NO SWEAT!

Keep cool with programs and rebates that can help you save energy and money when you invest in energy efficiency upgrades for your home and business. 

We’re here to be your number one resource for energy efficiency tips and advice so you can start saving immediately. Our articles are full of tips to help you implement small changes in your daily routine that can make a big impact when it comes to saving energy (and money!).  

Before planning your next energy efficiency upgrade, check Efficiency Manitoba first.

PROGRAMS & REBATES FOR COOL SUMMER SAVINGS

Don’t sweat your energy bill this summer. We have programs and rebates for upgrades that are best tackled when the weather is warm and will help keep you comfortable all year long. 

Windows & doors

Get a $100 rebate on each eligible window and door you install in your home, up to $2,000, and save…

Solar PV systems

Solar PV systems provide energy to your home and business in a sustainable manner. They can help reduce your monthly…

Solar panels in a field

Heat pump rebates

Efficient heating systems like heat pumps can save you money by using less energy. By upgrading, you can save energy…

Heat pump being installed

Insulation

Making sure your home is adequately insulated is one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce your energy bills. We…

Fiberglass insulation in interior wall

Income based offers

If you’re living with a limited income, we can help you lower your monthly energy bills and make your home…

Couple talking to expert in kitchen

Home energy retrofits

If you’re planning an extensive home renovation that will significantly reduce your home’s energy usage, your project could qualify for…

Exterior of house under construction

Looking for more information? Take a peek at our summer series!

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