Natural Resources Canada
98/62
August 19, 1998

SOLAR HEATING SYSTEMS ARE REDI

FARNHAM — Ralph Goodale, Minister of Natural Resources Canada, today formally inaugurated the first installation of a solar air heating system, or Solarwall™, under the Renewable Energy Deployment Initiative (REDI). The event took place at Tapis Coronet inc. – Coronet Carpets Inc., the first company in Canada to benefit from the business incentive portion of the REDI program. Joining the Minister at the ceremony were Mr. Jan Lembregts, President of Coronet Carpets, Mr. Denis Paradis, M.P. for Brome-Missisquoi, and Mrs. Lyse Lafrance-Charlebois, Mayor of Farnham, Quebec.

"Technologies like the Solarwall™ offer practical solutions to reducing energy costs for business," said Minister Goodale. "These technologies are cost efficient and play an important role in reducing greenhouse gases and in diversifying Canada's energy mix. This is sound business and is good for the environment." Located in Farnham, Quebec, Coronet Carpets has been manufacturing carpets for over 30 years and employs 450 people. The recently installed Solarwall™ cost about $175,000, of which REDI will contribute 25 percent. The company will save approximately $35,000 annually in reduced gas costs, while reducing its carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 500 tonnes annually. "Our company is always proactive in finding ways to reduce our operating costs. When this can be accomplished while protecting and enhancing the environment, you really talk about a terrific project that should inspire others to follow suit," said Mr. Jan Lembregts.

The Solarwall™ was developed by Conserval Engineering Ltd. of Downsview, Ontario, with funding from Natural Resources Canada. Solarwalls are metal solar collectors mounted vertically on the south-facing walls of buildings. The collected solar energy preheats ventilation air, which is distributed inside with a fan and a system of flexible ducts. The system is now distinguished as the world's highest-efficiency solar air collector and has received numerous awards and international recognition.

REDI is a three-year, $12-million initiative which will run until March 31, 2001. Its primary objective is to promote investments in renewable energy systems for heating and cooling. By strengthening markets for the renewable-energy industry, REDI will contribute to Canada's climate change objectives of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

A major component of REDI is the incentive to business. REDI for Business is designed to stimulate market demand for renewable energy heating systems by offsetting some of the costs associated with their purchase and installation. As well, businesses can reduce their environmental impact and dependence on non-renewable fuels. Businesses are eligible for a contribution of 25 percent of the purchase and installation costs of a solar hot-water system, a solar air heating system and a high-efficiency, low-emissions biomass combustion system, to a maximum of $50,000. Natural Resources Canada has published eligibility criteria for the REDI for Business incentive. For more information about this program you may call our toll-free number: 1-877-722-6600 or visit the program's website at: www.nrcan.gc.ca/es/erb/reed/

For further information, please contact:
John Embury
Press Secretary
Natural Resources Canada
(613) 996-2007