Green party leader tables the Green Energy Security Act

Fredericton – David Coon, MLA for Fredericton South and Leader of the Green Party of New Brunswick, tabled a bill today to support New Brunswick renewable energies, energy efficiency initiatives and public transportation.

“It’s time to provide assistance to home and business owners to help them reduce their cost of heating and generate their own power. A major program to retrofit homes and businesses will be an engine of economic growth for our province, increasing our GDP by $2 to $3 billion annually, creating between 900 and 1,300 jobs every year, while shrinking our carbon footprint,” said Coon. “Within a matter of years it will be cheaper to generate your own power than having it provided by NB Power.”

Coon’s bill lays out the mandate, structure, and responsibilities of a Crown agency called Renew NB that would drive investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency and public transportation, leveraging private investment with innovative financing and incentive programs.

“The Province has been quietly negotiating an agreement with the federal government to that will provide the financial resources to help New Brunswickers invest in modern heating systems; new windows, insulation and lighting; and renewable energy systems to reduce the use of oil, electricity and natural gas,” said Coon. “My bill would ensure that these funds will be spent in the most effective manner to leave more money in the pockets of families and businesses, create real jobs, real economic development , and a smaller carbon footprint.”

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