Cool Shops Ottawa, an offshoot of a successful Toronto program operating since 1998, will see two team members knocking on storefront doors to talk with merchants about issues such as lighting and air conditioning.
Project coordinator Daniel Desforges said Cool Shops has no official jurisdiction other than strong endorsements from the Ministries of Environment and Energy. Merchants aren't required to follow through on the group's recommendations, but Mr. Desforges said many in Toronto have done so to their financial benefit.
"We'll be focused on talking to businesses and trying to convince them to close their doors while their air conditioners are raging, which will help reduce their energy consumption by a significant amount."
Mr. Desforges said the initiative has saved Toronto businesses upwards of 30 to 40 per cent in energy costs and, after a period of getting to know each other, they have forged bonds with many street-facing vendors that were leery in the beginning.
To capture the attention of local merchants, Cool Shops will be handing out free compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL), which he claims burn as bright and last twice as long as conventional bulbs. They'll also be equipped with palm pilots that can read how much energy is being used by the lighting and estimate the savings in terms of dollars if a change was made to CFLs.
"We're giving out the light bulbs so that if they're unsure they can try them out and see what they can do," he added, saying older lights can lead to even higher savings if replaced.
As well, another incentive to participate is publicity. Mr. Desforges plans to place advertisements in local newspapers that recognize businesses that have signed on to the program.
Ideally, 1,000 local businesses will participate by the end of summer.
"There are four other cities being tested this summer and I want Ottawa to be the best one."
Ottawa Chamber of Commerce chairman Eric McSweeney said he believed most merchants would embrace Cool Shop's suggestions if it meant cost savings.
"I think anyone who can demonstrate short-term payback will receive a warm welcome.
By Scott Taylor
scott.taylor@transcontinental.ca
