New research by McGill University’s Department of Geography has revealed that 2 out of 5 households in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia are struggling to pay home heating and electricity bills. The report, titled “Energy Needs, Housing, and Well-Being in the Town of Bridgewater,” is a first step in measuring the impacts of Energize Bridgewater’s efforts to reduce home energy costs. Led by Professor Mylene Riva, the research project found that 38% of households in Bridgewater are facing energy poverty, which means they cannot afford to keep their homes warm or power appliances.
Energize Bridgewater is a community-wide program with the goal of reducing energy poverty by 20% by 2026. The program aims to make home energy upgrades more affordable and easier for residents. The report highlights the extent of energy poverty in Bridgewater and creates a baseline of data to compare before and after the program is fully implemented.
Over the next few years, McGill researchers will assess the impacts of Energize Bridgewater on health and well-being. The report is released in partnership with the Town of Bridgewater, and Meghan Doucette, Planner I at the Town of Bridgewater, expressed gratitude for the research partnership, stating that the small town relies on partnerships to add capacity to their program.
The research conducted in Bridgewater is considered the first of it’s kind in Canada and will be used to guide policy-making in other parts of the country.
