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Author: Ashley Nichol

How the average Manitoba home uses energy

Are you looking to reduce your monthly energy bills? Knowing how and where your home uses energy is a great first step to saving money and the environment. We’re here to give you to the tools to make positive changes and enjoy lower energy bills.

FACTORS THAT AFFECT ENERGY USE

Everyone uses energy differently. A family of five living on a farm will likely have a much different energy bill than a single person living in a high-rise apartment. Here are some common factors that can impact your consumption:

  • Age of your home (older homes tend to have less insulation and other energy-efficient features than newer homes)
  • Square footage of your home (larger homes tend to use more energy)
  • Number of people in your household (more household members means more energy consumers)
  • Individual behaviours (your thermostat settings, hobbies, and habits can all impact energy use)

AVERAGE HOME ENERGY USE IN MANITOBA: THE NUMBERS

To help you understand how the average Manitoban consumes energy, we gathered some data from the Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) National Energy Use Database. Here’s the breakdown for Manitoba homes and how we consume electricity and natural gas:

The average home can expect to see 75% of their monthly energy bill go towards home and water heating. Other energy consumers including lighting, appliances, electronics, and air conditioning come in a distant second. The breakdown for electrically heated and natural gas heated homes is nearly identical.

If you’re looking to cut your energy costs, it’s a good idea to look at your biggest consumers first – that is, your heating systems.

HOW DOES YOUR HOME USE ENERGY? 

Our new virtual energy review is an online tool that gives you an overview of how much energy your heating systems are using and what you can do to take some of the load off your energy bill. Simply create an account and answer a few questions about your home – the tool will generate a customized energy use report and recommend energy-saving opportunities that make sense for you. Plus, it’s free and only takes about 10 minutes.

GET YOUR FREE
HOME ENERGY REPORT TODAY

WAYS TO SAVE

Here are three ways you can save on your heating costs:

  1. Eligible customers can upgrade their standard-efficiency natural gas furnace to a high-efficiency model through our Energy Efficiency Assistance Program.
  2. If your home was built before 1999, it may not have enough insulation. Upgrade your insulation and get a rebate of up to 100% of your materials with our Home Insulation Rebate.
  3. Keep warm air in during the cold winter months by sealing up and weatherstripping your windows and doors. Check out this article for some do-it-yourself air sealing tips!

OTHER RESOURCES

Curious to see how your heating system compares with others? Check out these helpful charts from Manitoba Hydro to learn more about your heating system options.

Example space heating cost comparison
Example water heating cost comparison

in ENERGY SAVING TIPS, UNCATEGORIZED

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Variable speed drive upgrade

SAVE ENERGY & MONEY WITH A VARIABLE SPEED DRIVE UPGRADE

A variable speed drive (VSD) upgrade to your fan or pump system can result in a more energy-efficient and cost-effective solution for your facility. Plus, we offer rebates to help you lower your equipment costs.

WHAT IS A VSD?

A VSD is an electrical device used to adjust the speed of an electric motor. It reduces waste by varying the volume of air or water delivered by your fan or pump system. Matching fan or pump system supply needs with a variable system helps you save energy.

The most common type of VSD used with three-phase induction motors is called a variable frequency drive (VFD). VFDs adjust the speed of the induction motor by varying the frequency and voltage supplied to the motor. To comply with electrical codes, the induction motor driven by the VFD must be designed to operate at variable speeds and rated as “inverter duty”. Unless the current motor is rated for use with a VFD, it’ll need to be replaced before installing a VFD.

Newer and more efficient types of VSDs available in the market today utilize a brushless permanent magnet motor (PMM) that’s equipped with a drive or controller to enable variable speed operation. These PMM VSD systems can be up to 10% more efficient than standard induction motor VFD drive systems. They may cost more than an inverter duty induction motor VFD combination, but the sooner you upgrade, the sooner you can start saving even more. While PMM VSD systems are more prevalent in smaller motor sizes, they’re increasingly becoming available in larger sizes.

WHERE CAN A VSD BE USED?

Wherever variable flow can be applied with fan or pump systems, VSDs can be used. This technology can be applied to fan and pump systems in commercial, industrial, agricultural, or manufacturing applications.

An oversized constant flow pump or fan system that can be revised to operate in a variable flow arrangement using a VSD could reduce your energy consumption by 50%. If you have one of these constant flow systems, consider installing a VSD and additional downstream equipment – such as sensors and controls – to allow it to operate as a variable flow system.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING A VSD?

There are three main benefits of using a VSD:

  1. IMPROVED ENERGY PERFORMANCE
    Introducing the ability to reduce and vary the speed of your pump and fan system improves the overall energy performance of your building. By more closely matching fan or pump motor loads to their specific demands, you’ll save money on your energy bills for years to come.
  2. LOWER MAINTENANCE COSTS & REDUCED DOWNTIME
    Since VSDs can extend the service life of your equipment, having one installed can save you time and money when it comes to maintenance.
  3. PRECISION CONTROL
    VSDs match motor speeds with specific application needs, so you can fine-tune your system to operate more efficiently.

GET A REBATE FOR YOUR VSD UPGRADE

We offer rebates to help you with the upfront cost of a VSD upgrade so your business can experience the benefits of saving energy, money, and the environment.

Learn more
and find out if you qualify.
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Efficiency Manitoba offers new heat pump incentive program to reduce heating costs in homes and businesses

A new incentive program is now available to Manitobans who are looking to upgrade their heating system to a new, more energy-efficient alternative. Efficiency Manitoba’s Heat Pump Program provides financial incentives to home and business owners who replace their existing heating system with an energy-efficient ground source heat pump.

Ground source heat pumps (also known as geothermal heat pumps) are one of the most energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly electric heating and cooling systems available. Instead of creating heat by burning fossil fuels or powering an electric element, they move existing heat into or out of the ground. Installing a ground source heat pump can reduce heating costs by up to 60% when compared to an electric furnace.

Efficiency Manitoba is offering an incentive of up to $2.50 per square foot ($26.91 per square metre) of heated space for eligible projects. Replacing an electric furnace in a 1,600 square foot home could save $900/year in energy costs and be eligible for an incentive of up to $4,000. Incentives are also available when converting from a natural gas heating system to a ground source heat pump.

“We’re excited to continue expanding the options Manitobans have to save energy and reduce their carbon footprint,” said Colleen Kuruluk, Chief Executive Officer of Efficiency Manitoba. “Manitobans are increasingly seeking ways to become more energy efficient, and by providing incentives for ground source heat pump installations, we’re able to help them make these positive changes.”

The Heat Pump Program requires customers to work with an accredited Manitoba Geothermal Energy Alliance (MGEA) installer. “The MGEA is thrilled to partner with Efficiency Manitoba in the implementation of this rebate offer,” said Brent Laufer, President of MGEA. “We are excited for the opportunity to help Manitobans save money on their home heating by delivering quality installations through our trained and experienced accredited members.”

“Upgrading to a ground source heat pump not only helps customers reduce their energy bills, but it also creates good paying jobs for Manitobans and provides greenhouse gas emissions reductions when converting from a natural gas heating system,” said Conservation and Climate Minister Sarah Guillemard. “This program from Efficiency Manitoba complements the existing provincial Green Energy Equipment Tax Credit program that provides a 15% tax credit for eligible geothermal heat pump installations. These are benefits we can all get behind as we take steps to address climate change and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.”

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

For more information, please contact: media@efficiencyMB.ca.

in NEWS RELEASES

How to save on your natural gas energy bill & reduce your environmental impact

ADVICE FROM AN EXPERT

If you have a natural gas bill, it may feel like time to find ways to cut your gas consumption.

You may have heard the saying that the cheapest energy is the energy you never use. How are you using natural gas: heating your home and/or water? Cooking dinner? Relaxing in front of your fireplace?  

The cost of natural gas fluctuates regularly and is currently on the rise, so now’s the time to take action to reduce your natural gas consumption and lower your energy bills. It’ll help you save energy and money and reduce greenhouse emissions, benefiting you and the environment we live in. Here are some tips that’ll help you save:

  • Do regular maintenance. Be it door weatherstripping, seasonal furnace check-ups, filter changes, or filling cracks, a well-maintained home will run more efficiently and minimize energy waste.
  • If you have a natural gas furnace, it needs to be able to spread the air and heat around. That means grills and registers have to be kept clean and clear of obstructions like furniture. This includes cleaning your ducts! We recommend having them professionally cleaned every two to three years to remove any dust and debris. 
  • If you’re heating your water with natural gas, it’s your second largest energy cost next to heating your home. Using less hot water can save you money. Wash your clothes in cold water whenever possible. Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators. Wash full loads of laundry. And if you have a dishwasher, use its energy-saving settings. 
  • Upgrade to a smart Wi-Fi connected thermostat. Using its many features, including scheduling and geofencing, can help you save.
  • Consider the assistance we provide to improve the insulation in your home. That works directly to reduce the consumption of natural gas, and we can provide you with rebates through our Home Insulation Program. 
  • Air leakage can significantly reduce the comfort and durability of your home, as well as increase your energy costs. If there’s a gap or a crack that air can get through, it will. If you can see daylight anywhere, you’re inviting in outside air and higher energy bills. Weatherstripping, including window insulating film and caulking, are staples of good airtightness maintenance. Make sure you air seal before starting any major insulation projects. 
  • If you live in an older home, you may have older inefficient windows. Older windows are often poor insulation, and they likely let in unwanted air which can force your heating and cooling system to work harder than necessary. By upgrading to high-performance windows and doors, your home will be more comfortable – and you can save money on your monthly energy bills. And yes, we have rebates to help you replace your windows and doors!  
  • Let the sun in by opening your window coverings (curtains, blinds, or shutters) during the heating season. During our sunny Manitoba winters, the heat from the sun displaces some of the natural gas your furnace (or boiler) would have used. And remember to close those window coverings during the warmer months to keep that extra heat out!
  • Sometimes small changes can be a benefit. Electrical outlets can allow cold air to sneak in and force you to raise your thermostat setting. Insulating foam gaskets for your electrical outlets on exterior walls can help you save.

So, are you using natural gas efficiently? These are just a few tips for minimizing your natural gas use, and we want to help you take these steps. Check out our website to learn about our programs and offers, and send our Energy Team an email if you have any questions.

If you own a business, we have programs and offers to help you reduce your natural gas consumption, too!

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Train to become an energy advisor!

BE A PART OF THE GROWING GREEN ECONOMY

Are you looking for a meaningful career change? Or maybe you want to join the growing sustainability industry?

Efficiency Manitoba is part of an expert working group assembled by the Manitoba Environmental Industries Association (MEIA) to collaborate and develop a plan for a made-in-Manitoba Energy Advisor (EA) training program. We’re happy to share that a part-time EA training course for delivering EnerGuide audits is available at Red River College!

During the three-month course starting in September 2021, you’ll gain the skills you need to conduct in-home energy audits, identify opportunities for homeowners to save energy and reduce their carbon footprint, and recommend Efficiency Manitoba and federal government incentives to maximize savings for Manitobans. Learning will take place both online and in person and you’ll get the opportunity to perform supervised audits at the end of the course.

EAs help Manitobans make informed decisions on where to focus their energy efficiency upgrade efforts – and energy efficiency creates positive economic impacts and green jobs.

This training comes at an especially important time. More EAs will be needed for Efficiency Manitoba offers. Also, the Government of Canada’s new Greener Homes Grant is committed to providing one million EnerGuide audits to households across the country, and qualified EAs are needed to conduct these audits. All of this means trained and certified EAs are in demand now more than ever.

At Efficiency Manitoba, we want to share this opportunity to recruit participants who reflect the diversity of our province. If you’re interested, we encourage you to consider this rewarding opportunity.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COURSE
AND REGISTER TODAY!
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Considering a home upgrade?

WORK WITH THE RIGHT PARTNERS 

Are you ready to get started on that home project you’ve been thinking about? A contractor can provide qualified assistance and guidance on Efficiency Manitoba programs to help you save energy, money, and the environment.

To ensure the job’s done right, it’s worth doing some planning and research to stay on budget and get the results you want.

Here’s a checklist to get you started:

  • Before you start any project, see if we’re currently offering rebates to help with the upgrade cost. 
  • Check out our online supplier directory to find contractors who are registered to deliver our programs. 
  • Get quotes from at least three contractors. 
  • When you decide on a contractor, ask for a written contract. 
  • Read the fine print and never sign an incomplete contract. 
  • Keep in mind that estimates often have a 10% contingency, meaning the final cost can be as much as 10% more than the estimate. 

Before you sign the contract, follow these three steps:

  1. Read it carefully to make sure all the details are included.
  2. Review the fine print and terms and conditions.
  3. Make sure that both you and your contractor initial any changes to the work.

And finally, here are some tips to help you find a contractor:

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Unplug & safely explore Manitoba

Life can get pretty busy and it’s been a difficult year. Take some time to unplug and embark on a safe outdoor adventure!

Here are three reasons to get outdoors:

  • It improves your mood.
  • It reduces stress.
  • It improves your focus.

Manitoba is bursting with diverse places and landscapes. So, what better region to explore than our own backyard?

RIDING MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK 

Riding Mountain National Park is a true four seasons playground. Camping, hiking, golfing, boating, and sightseeing are just a few of the things you can enjoy at this popular national park this summer. 

WHITEMOUTH FALLS PROVINCIAL PARK

A little over an hour outside Winnipeg lies a hidden gem called Whitemouth Falls Provincial Park. Here, the Whitemouth River transforms into scenic rushing rapids. This area is perfect for fishing, hiking, and having a picnic, and will likely become a new favourite destination. 

POPULAR HIKES IN MANITOBA 

  • Hunt Lake Trail 
  • Pine Point Trail 
  • Spirit Sands & Devil’s Punch Bowl 
  • Turtle’s Back Loop 
  • Blue Lakes Trail 

Check out travelmanitoba.com to plan your next outdoor adventure. 

in GREEN LIVING

Enhancements to the small business program

We’re committed to helping local businesses save energy while supporting economic recovery efforts. We’re making that possible by adding new technologies to both our Small Business Program and Indigenous Small Business Program and expanding the eligibility criteria. Now even more businesses can participate!

ABOUT THE SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

Our Small Business Program is a full-service solution that helps your business become more energy efficient. You can get free basic energy-saving products, a free energy-efficiency opportunity assessment, and financial incentives on lighting and insulation upgrades.

WHAT’S CHANGING?

We’re excited to announce the following enhancements to the Small Business Program and Indigenous Small Business Program eligibility criteria: 

  • Buildings can now be up to 15,000 square feet (up from 10,000 square feet)
  • Businesses can now have up to 10 locations in Manitoba (up from 6 locations)
  • Municipal buildings are now eligible to participate

We also included new products and technologies for both our Basic and Premium upgrades including:

  • showerheads (Basic); 
  • Type B TLEDs (Premium); 
  • smart thermostats (Premium); and
  • insulation (Premium).

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

One thing hasn’t changed: it’s still as easy as ever to participate. Simply get in touch with us to request your free assessment and energy-saving devices. Our service provider, Ecofitt, will work with you and a local sub-contractor to install your energy-efficient upgrades. 

Check out our program web pages to start your energy efficiency journey! 

Don’t qualify for the Small Business Program? You may be interested in our Business Lighting Program. 

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Ty Knows a GUY

CHECK OUT OUR INTERVIEW ON CJOB!

On June 5, our very own Jana Brunel (Program Design & Administration Manager) was interviewed on the CJOB radio show Ty Knows a Guy. She sat down (virtually!) with On Time Group president Tyler Whitlaw to chat about Efficiency Manitoba’s programs and how energy efficiency supports local economic growth. She also provided a glimpse into some new rebates coming up! 

LISTEN
NOW
in ASK OUR ENERGY TEAM

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Programs for municipally-owned buildings

We’re here to help municipally-owned buildings and recreation facilities save energy, money, and the environment. We have several programs and incentives that can help building operators make energy-efficient upgrades. In addition to saving money on your energy bills, you’ll increase the comfort, productivity, and enjoyment of your spaces, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

We partnered with the Association of Manitoba Municipalities to create helpful energy efficiency resources for municipal buildings. Check out the municipal programs guide and recreation facilities guide on our website!

Here are some of the offers available to municipally-owned buildings:

A NEW OFFER FOR SMALL MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS

Municipally-owned buildings and recreation facilities can participate in our Small Business Program. We offer free energy-efficient upgrades as well as a lighting and insulation assessment. Buildings may also qualify for Premium upgrades, which cover 70% of the total cost of your lighting and insulation project, including materials and installation. Our service provider, Ecofitt, will work with you and a local sub-contractor to install your new energy-efficient upgrades.

LIGHTING FOR LARGER MUNICIPAL BUILDINGS

Your building’s indoor and outdoor lighting can use a considerable amount of energy. Our Business Lighting Program can help you lower your energy bills and reduce your maintenance costs, and is available to larger municipally-owned buildings and recreation facilities. When you upgrade to energy-efficient LED lighting and occupancy controls, you can receive incentives covering up to 100% of your lighting material costs. LEDs use significantly less energy than traditional lighting and can be easily customized and controlled for your building’s needs and schedule.

INSULATION & WINDOWS

By installing roof insulation, wall insulation, and high-performance windows, you can reduce your energy costs and extend the life of your building. The Building Envelope Program can cover up to 100% of your insulation material costs and help reduce the cost of high-performance windows. Benefits include lower heating and cooling costs, less condensation, reduced outdoor noise, and improved indoor comfort and air quality.

As a reminder, small municipally-owned buildings and recreation facilities may qualify for insulation projects through the Small Business Program, which offers specialized support and incentives.

GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

Ground source heat pumps are efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly. Upgrading to a ground source heat pump can reduce municipal building electric heating costs by up to 60% and offset the impacts of future heating cost increases. Incentives are available to make projects easier and more affordable.

CUSTOM MEASURES

We can help you save on electricity and natural gas usage with measures that are designed specifically for your facility. Successful past projects include ice plant heat recovery for shower and ice surface flood water, low-emissivity ceilings, brine pump cycling, refrigeration system controls, and equipment upgrades.

ENERGY MANAGER INITIATIVE

The Energy Manager Initiative enables customers to take control of their energy use. It provides co-funding for a municipality to hire or appoint an energy manager to develop and implement an energy management program and provides resources to help guide them along the way. Agreements last for three years, and incentives provided through the initiative are in addition to incentives provided by our other programs.

COMMUNITY ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROGRAM

Municipalities selected through an application process are provided with support to hire an energy efficiency advocate to create and implement community energy efficiency plans with guidance from our energy experts. These plans help communities lower their overall energy consumption by taking part in our programs. Hired by the municipality, the energy efficiency advocate helps foster a culture of conservation in the community, empowering its citizens to participate in energy-saving initiatives.

In April 2021, we proudly announced that the City of Selkirk was the first municipality to receive funding for an energy efficiency advocate through the Community Energy Efficiency Program. Selkirk will receive funding over two years to employ a local energy efficiency advocate, who will identify and facilitate energy-efficient upgrades within the community.

NEW CONSTRUCTION

Our New Buildings Program provides you with incentives for energy modelling and construction when you design and build a new energy-efficient building. Enjoy lower heating and cooling costs, less condensation and drafts, improved occupant comfort, improved building aesthetics, increased building value, and a reduced environmental footprint.

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