It looks like the City of Toronto is entertaining a new initiative focused on promoting energy efficiency in our new homes! And we thought Sustainability Month was over.

The Energy and Water Efficiency Initiative

The City of Toronto is looking at a program called the "The Energy and Water Efficiency Initiative" for the residential sector. It promotes energy efficiency and allows homeowners to invest in their homes while also investing in the natural environment around them.

The voluntary program will include two levels, one that will initially focus on 1,000 single-family homes, and then 10 multi-unit residential buildings. The plan calls for the use of energy efficient fixtures, and other water conservation options.

A winning proposition for all involved

Franz Hartmann, Executive Director of the Toronto Environmental Alliance, commented to the Toronto Star on the new initiative:

"I don't see a downside to it," he said. "It's a great option. We got to do everything we can to reduce our environmental footprint. This is a win, win, win."

An interesting aspect of the program is the fact that it won't cost the City anything. The report, which is scheduled to be considered by the City's executive committee on July 3rd, states that it will be funded by the private sector. The program is projected to cost upwards of $20 million.

A program with untapped potential

In our conversation with Environmental Commissioner of Ontario Gord Miller, earlier this month, he noted that our province struggles with starting programs like these - so we're excited to at least have a city-based one underway! Although the program is only expected to impact 1,000 single-family homes and 10 multi-unit buildings initially, the program has the potential to grow to impact every home within the City of Toronto, which is a good thing for everyone involved.

Stay tuned to the Toronto Star's Newinhomes.com, we plan to have more information on this new program as it becomes available.