Thanks to funding support from the BC Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy (MoE) and the BC Lung Association, the Comox Valley Regional District’s (CVRD) wood stove exchange program will be continuing through 2018. Currently, the CVRD remains focused on encouraging residents to update their non-certified wood burning appliances through the Wood Stove Exchange Program.
The CVRD has received funding to continue the program in 2018, however the number of rebates available for new wood stoves has been reduced to provide more funding for cleaner heating sources. This funding, in combination with top-ups approved by the CVRD board, means there are added incentives for residents to install gas or pellet stoves ($600 rebate) or heat pumps ($1,000 rebate). For those residents with non-certified wood stoves, these higher rebates can make a significant difference in making the switch to a cleaner heating option. Rebates of $250 continue to be available for participants installing a new wood stove.
The CVRD has also launched a new survey aimed at understanding how local residents heat their homes. The survey will identify perceptions about local air quality as well as wood burning practices during the winter months. All residents are asked to participate regardless of their heating sources, and participants can enter to win a $250 gift card for Quality Foods in Courtenay or Comox.
The Ministry of Environment addresses air quality through legislation, codes of practice, permits and standards. The CVRD does not have an air quality service, however has worked with MoE to establish an air quality monitoring station in the Comox Valley, in addition to delivering rebates and community education relating to air quality.
The rebates for the Wood Stove Exchange Program are on a first come, first serve basis. To learn more about the Wood Stove Exchange Program or take the survey, visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/woodstove
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Media Contact:
Vince Van Tongeren, Policy and Sustainability Analyst
Tel: 250-334-6038