Brandon Energy Efficiency Program (BEEP)

The Brandon Energy Efficiency Program is administered through the Brandon Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation and seeks to increase energy and water efficiency within low income housing in Brandon and Southwest Manitoba. BEEP is funded through partnerships with Green Manitoba Energy Fund, Entrepreneurship Training and Trade, Manitoba Hydro Power Smart, City of Brandon, Manitoba Housing Authority, Western Economic Diversification Canada, and Manitoba Water Stewardship. Westbran Training Centre retrofit trainees are identified and trained in basic energy and water construction skills to prepare them for jobs in the construction industry. BEEP is able to complete water and energy retrofits to benefit program participant trainees, low income households and the environment.

Scope of Work

Attic insulation and insulation stop installation.
Basement wall and header insulation.
Pipe insulation of hot water tank.
Removal of existing toilet and installation of low flow toilet.
Installation of low flow shower head and faucet aerators.
Installation of compact florescent lighting.
Installation of electrical plug receptacle gaskets.
Installation of a dranjer.

Trainees

Since Program Inception in 2007:

65 trainees have entered the program.
18 have advanced to Tier II within BEEP.
16 have taken jobs in the private sector.
5 have returned to school.
5 are presently with the program as Tier II workers.
4 are presently with the program as Trainees.

Retrofit Status Since 2007

400 Manitoba Housing unit retrofits.
14 private home retrofits.
494 water retrofits on multi-level apartments.

Statistical Data

Energy and water savings based on actual 2007 retrofits:
- Hydro consumption is reduced an average of 15% - $250 - $300 per year per home.
- Water consumption is reduced an average of 40% - $200 - $250 per year per home.
32 million litres of water saved annually based on 400 homes retrofitted.
20 million litres of water reduced from 494 apartment water retrofits.
$120,000 annual reduction in energy costs (a savings of approximately $300/house).
$100,000 annual reduction in water costs (a savings of approximately $250/house).
Greenhouse gas emissions reduced by approximately 1,200 tonnes annually (approximately 3 tonnes/house).
Provided Brandon businesses with over $300,000 of building material sales per year.