The bill would provide funds to working families to install equipment such as heat pumps or radon systems to increase health and safety in homes while providing a whole-home solution to meeting our net-zero emissions targets.

“There is a clear need, during the dual crises of affordability and the climate emergency to reduce energy demand and make their homes safer with up-front grants for working families,” said Rankin. “Nova Scotians want a greener province, and the government has the tools families need to transition affordably – government just needs to utilize them.”

At a time when 43 per cent of Nova Scotian households are experiencing energy poverty, the Houston government responded by cutting heating assistance rebates for lower income Nova Scotians. This bill builds on the Liberals’ commitment to reversing those cuts.

“The Houston government has made it nearly impossible for Nova Scotians to keep up with the rising cost of living,” said Opposition Leader Zach Churchill. “No matter where I travel in the province, people tell me they are struggling to make ends meet. Now is not the time to cut government supports, it’s time to strengthen them.”