A $3.8-million investment from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Green Municipal Fund will be used to help Lethbridge residents make real, tangible energy efficiency and sustainability improvements to their homes.
Lethbridge is one of four Alberta communities sharing in over $25 million in funding delivered through the Community Efficiency Financing (CEF) initiative to implement energy retrofit financing programs for residential properties.
"Whether it's new windows and doors or finally being able to afford to installing solar panels, this investment will give our residents an advantage when it comes to being sustainably minded citizens," says Mayor Blaine Hyggen. "But perhaps most importantly, we're going to see a reduction in Lethbridge's overall carbon footprint."
This funding will allow the City of Lethbridge to establish a lending program for homeowners wanting to make energy efficient improvements. The loan can be repaid, over time, through City property tax bills.
"We are excited to be able to provide this new option to our residents that will make it easier to complete projects that will make their home more efficient and sustainable," says Larry Laverty, Manager of Tax and Assessment for the City of Lethbridge. "We know these investments pay off in the long run and this program will provide that upfront capital to get folks started."
One unique and value added bonus for Lethbridge is that 20 per cent of this funding is dedicated to supporting affordable housing providers. This means some of the most vulnerable members of our community will get to experience improved facilities.
"This investment helps us to deliver on our environmental responsibility focus as a municipal government and ensures we're doing our part in the fight against climate change on a local level," says Mayor Hyggen. "I want to thank our Federal Government partners for this support and to the FCM for their work in advocating for municipalities."
The Lethbridge program is expected to be available in late February 2023 and will be offered on a first-come, first-serve basis to all Lethbridge homeowners.
Calgary, St. Albert and Canmore also received funding as part of this initiative. For more information on this Federal funding announcement visit: https://bit.ly/3MaTByH.
