Thursday, May 3, 2012

From the Nanaimo Daily News, May 19, 2012

Regional District of Nanaimo residents could receive more than $1,000 in rebates and incentives if they want to help make the district more sustainable.

Through its drinking water and watershed protection program, the RDN is now providing an incentive to residents in its four member municipalities and electoral areas to help protect local water resources by purchasing rainwater harvesting systems.

Up to $750 is available to RDN residents if they purchase and hook up a 1,000-gallon cistern for capturing rainwater to take the pressure off of area aquifers.

"The regional district is really serious about sustainability and offering a financial incentive for rainwater collection and other green initiatives is a win-win for both the RDN, residents and the environment," said Diane Brennan, deputy chairwoman of the RDN board.

Other incentives the RDN offers are $250 for a wood-stove exchange program, $250 for the installation of a solar hot-water system, and $250 for homeowners who install a residential electric vehicle charging station.

Incentives are limited and are only available on a first-come, first-served basis, said Chris Midgley the RDN's manager of energy and sustainability.

Those who want to take advantage of these green incentives must show proof they qualify for the related incentive, and pre-approval is required before submitting a claim for the rainwater harvesting incentive.

For information, e-mail sustainability@rdn.bc.ca, visit rdnrebates.ca or call 250-390-6560.