next message in archive
no next message in thread
previous message in archive
Index of Subjects
Tip: Your message to SUST-MAR must be html-free. So, BEFORE you hit SEND, please go to your "Format" pull-down menu and select "Plain text." Thanks! ____________________________________________________________________________ Still A Few Spaces Left !! Eastern Shore's First Solar Builders' Course If the terms net-metering, photovoltaic, off-grid and intertied strike a chord, you've probably been paying attention to the news. Perhaps, like a growing number of people you plan to build or renovate a home or business in a manner that doesn't wreak further havoc on the environment. If so, here's your last chance until late Fall to learn firsthand about the why's and how's of solar installation in Nova Scotia. The Bay of Islands Sustainable Economic Development Centre in Moser River will host the Solar Builders' Course on this weekend, May 15 and 16 to kick off the eco-centre's 2004 summer season of 'sustainable living' events. The intensive two day "Solar Shelter Builders' Course" is geared to trades people such as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians. It also appeals to individuals who are in the process of installing passive and active solar and to those who wish keep informed of current developments in renewable energy. "The Bay of Islands region has a high percentage of century homes that use wood as a primary source of heat", according to Gail Martin, one of the founding directors of the non-profit Eastern Shore facility. "An effective passive solar retrofit can reduce wood consumption to around 3 cords a year". Martin also states that new home builders along the coast have been contacting the Centre for help in finding tradespeople with background experience in wind, solar and small hydro installations. "Many new builders and developers here are from out of Province" says Martin. "They become very frustrated with the lack of skilled tradespeople in general" she says. "but finding those with knowledge of renewable energy is a really tall order, even in the city". "Nova Scotians need to be trained now for careers in sustainable development and appropriate technology. Such skills will be in high demand sooner than you think", Martin states. The weekend event in Moser River focuses on passive solar, but offers an overview of active solar and photovoltaic technology, how to get started, costs and payout time and how to plan and maximize the sun's energy for heat and hot water. A slide show presentation will also show examples of solar installations from around the province. At a cost of $80.00 (or $140 per couple), the Solar Course is a 'real bargain', says Martin. "It's a thorough 'how to do it' primer for anyone interested in applying solar to their home or business". Course instructor Don Roscoe has spent the last 25 years building with solar and is considered one of Canada's foremost authorities on solar energy. The Bay of Islands Centre is best known for its efforts to revitalize the region between Sheet Harbour and Sherbrooke with sustainable projects in low-impact forestry, nature-based tourism, and a flagship folk arts festival called "Stone Soup" being held this year on July 24 and 25. Limited roofed accommodation is available on a first come, first served basis for the weekend, but there is ample room for rough camping in the fields and woodlands of the 50 acre facility. For more information on the Solar Builders Course this weekend, please contact the Bay of Islands Centre at 347-2602 or visit the website at: www.bay-of-islands.org ____________________________________________________________________________ Did a friend forward this to you? Join sust-mar yourself! Just send 'subscribe sust-mar' to mailto:majordomo@chebucto.ca
next message in archive
no next message in thread
previous message in archive
Index of Subjects