CUT ENERGY COSTS AND HELP SAVE THE PLANET

Released on September 9, 2004

A nation-wide campaign is helping Saskatchewan residents use their "energy smarts" to lower home energy bills and improve the environment. From September 11th to September 26th, the Office of Energy Conservation and Climate Change Saskatchewan are partnering with The Home Depot Canada and the Clean Air Foundation to bring the Energy Smarts program to Saskatchewan.

"Without exception, every household in Saskatchewan has the ability to reduce the amount of energy it consumes – saving money on its home utility bills," Environment Minister David Forbes said. "By making small changes to the way we use energy, it's possible for each of us to reduce consumption up to 20 per cent."

Climate Change Saskatchewan representatives will be on hand to talk about a program called the One-Tonne Challenge and how implementing cost-effective initiatives can reduce a person's energy use by one tonne or 20 per cent.

This year's Energy Smarts program involves promotions of heating and cooling, lighting and indoor air quality products and appliances. Special offers include mail-in rebates and Home Depot gift cards up to a $30 value with the purchase of selected ENERGY STAR™ products. Free entry cards for the national online Energy Smarts contest will be available at all Home Depot locations. Representatives will be available each of the three weekends at The Home Depot locations to help shoppers make energy-efficient choices that will best suit their needs.

"Part of the The Home Depot's commitment to the community means that we are dedicated to helping Canadians make the right choices when it comes to home improvement products," President of The Home Depot Canada Annette Verschuren said. "Our partnership with the Clean Air Foundation allows us to highlight our wide selection of energy-efficient and clean-air products as well as educate and encourage our customers to make better choices for the environment."

The Office of Energy Conservation (OEC) is funded by SaskPower, SaskEnergy and Saskatchewan Industry and Resources and is located within the Saskatchewan Research Council. Its mission is to become a one-stop shop for energy conservation initiatives in Saskatchewan - providing access to cost-effective initiatives to reduce energy consumption.

For Energy Smarts discounts and information on energy-efficient and clean air products, visit The Home Depot in Regina or Saskatoon on Saturday and Sunday from September 11th to 26th. For more information on the Energy Smarts program, visit www.energysmarts

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For More Information, Contact:

Terry White Office of Energy Conservation Regina Phone: (306) 787-9381	Ian Morton Clean Air Foundation Toronto Phone: (416) 922-9038
Nick Cowling The Home Depot Toronto Phone: (416) 412-4142