The Nova Scotia and federal governments are spending $26 million to expand two programs with the goal of increasing access to free energy efficiency upgrades and reducing energy bills. The provincial government says the HomeWarming and African Nova Scotian Communities Retrofit programs will benefit from the funding, which is expected to impact more than 1,600 additional households. “These programs help people use less energy, pay less each month, and live in healthier, more comfortable homes,” said Nova Scotia Minister of Energy Marco MacLeod. EfficiencyOne delivers the programs, which the province says help low and moderate income households access energy-saving improvements, such as insulation, air sealing and heat pumps. The province notes efficiency upgrades can reduce energy use while improving indoor comfort and air quality. The African Nova Scotian Communities Retrofit Program gives historically underserved communities equitable access to energy efficiency upgrades. African Nova Scotian Affairs Minister Twila Grosse said the program helps remove barriers so more families can access energy upgrades that make their homes more comfortable, healthier and affordable to maintain. “By expanding this program, we are supporting historic communities while creating a cleaner, more sustainable future for generations to come,” said Grosse. The federal government spent $20 million from the Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program while the province provided $6 million for the expansions. For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page