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GOVERNMENT: Tories release green plan to “balance” demands on Alberta’s air, land and water
        (AlbertaIndex, February 12, Tuesday) --- The ruling Progressive Conservatives party has released a green plan that it says takes “bold action” to balance development with a strong environmental ethic to ensure that the survival of the natural heritage. Albertans will decide on this and other issues when they vote on provincial elections scheduled on March 3.
       
Calling it a comprehensive and achievable plan, the party says it will result in the province using energy more efficiently, greening energy production, and reducing emissions using new technologies like carbon capture and storage.

As part of its campaign for re-election, party leader and Premier Ed Stelmach has spoken on how we can all do our part to use energy more efficiently, and also to the importance of taking action now to protect natural spaces in preparation for continued population growth.

“Our plan sets the environmental bar high, and it requires everyone’s participation. We believe that what one person does can make a difference. We can take giant strides forward, each made up of thousands of little steps,” Stelmach said. “That’s why our plan for the environment has incentives: to help you and me do our part.”

As part of the Progressive Conservatives green plan, a new Energy Efficiency Act will:
    •    Implement an incentive program that provides a tax credit or rebate to homeowners and small businesses who renovate to utilize renewable energy sources; or who replace appliances with energy efficient models.
    •    Mandate efficiency standards in new home and commercial building codes, in consultation with industry and municipalities.
    •    Provide standards and support for community projects that improve energy efficiency and use renewable energy
    •    Continue to implement energy efficiency measures and standards for government buildings

Stelmach said: “Contrary to what others may say, Albertans are leaders in addressing the environmental, economic and political issues around climate change. We were the first province to commit to a comprehensive climate change plan.

“We were the first to require large operations to report their emissions, and then required under legislation to reduce them. Now we are offering broad based incentives to make homes and businesses energy efficient, and taking real steps to protect our green spaces for future generations. Tackling climate change is a team effort.”


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