Energy House shows Canadians how to reduce ecological footprint

Northern Lights College in Dawson Creek, B.C., wants to show Canadians how they can reduce their impact on the environment. With $150,000 from WD, they've developed an Energy House, the first of its kind in the province.

Scheduled to open in early 2008, Energy House is part demonstration project and part training facility that will display to Canadians everyday household alternative energy solutions.

Powered by a combination of solar panels and wind turbines, Energy House will showcase cutting-edge technology based on four types of renewable energy: solar electricity and heat as well as geothermal and wind power.

At the same time, future alternative energy maintenance workers and installers will get their career start within the 3,500 square foot facility. Energy House will serve as a training centre for students in the trades and students taking university-transfer science courses, as well as tradespeople looking to enhance their skill sets.

"Northern Lights College is playing a key role informing Canadians young and old about the benefits of renewable energy," said Howard Mayer, Dean of the Business, Industry and Contract Training Division at NLC. "We're hoping Energy House can educate and inspire people to make lasting changes that will benefit the environment."

For more information about Energy House, visit www.nlc.bc.ca/.