GOVERNMENT FUNDED RESEARCH TO IMPROVE ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN LOW-INCOME HOUSEHOLDS

Low-income residents in Regina's North Central neighbourhood will be able to save money and reduce energy consumption, thanks to a government funded research project. Last year's recipient of the annual Saskatchewan Housing Research Program's grant funding is currently researching the most cost-effective and efficient changes that North Central households can make to reduce energy use.

"This project is a concrete example of our commitment to making housing more affordable for Saskatchewan people and protecting the environment," Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer said. "By funding such innovative research, the Saskatchewan Housing Research Program is taking a proactive approach to addressing complex housing issues such as energy conservation. The program also helps to deliver tangible results and benefits to residents in the province."

The study awarded last year's grant is called "Improving Life Quality for Vulnerable Households in Regina's North Central Neighbourhood". Improving household energy efficiency is a challenge for lower income people living in older homes. Typically, these homes are not energy efficient and household utilities eat up a greater percentage of income.

"In this neighbourhood, there is a large gap between the ability of households to invest in housing upgrades and the conditions of their homes," University of Regina researcher and principal investigator of this study Dr. Marion Jones said. "This research is crucial because of the direct improvements to life quality this will yield, such as more disposable income for lower income homeowners and tenants and better quality housing."

Once again this year, the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC) is accepting applications from researchers to conduct housing research. Up to $45,000 in grant funding is available through the Saskatchewan Housing Research Program. A housing research committee made up of experienced researchers, representatives from government and academic institutions, and community-based organizations will review the applications and allocate the funding based on specific criteria.

The program is open to qualified individuals and groups, and the deadline for applications is March 10, 2008. A program description, application guidelines and application forms are available on the Saskatchewan Housing website at http://www.cr.gov.sk.ca/call-for-proposals.

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For more information, contact:

Linda Saliken
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0246
Email: lsaliken@cr.gov.sk.ca