Two months after the federal government announced over $60 million to help Nova Scotians transition to more affordable and greener heating options, the Houston government has yet to release the funds.

Other provinces such as Prince Edward Island have successful programs to help lower to middle income people cover the costs of heat pumps, while the Houston government is sitting on a pot of cash meant to do the same. With a carbon tax coming, time is of the essence to get supports in place for Nova Scotians who will be faced with drastic heating costs this winter.

“While other provinces are helping people access more affordable heating options, the Houston government is holding onto money that could help Nova Scotians,” says Liberal Leader Zach Churchill.

Rural communities in Nova Scotia are especially reliant on oil to heat their homes, lending to residents spending a significant amount of their income on home heating. According to Energize Bridgewater, 1 in 5 homes in Bridgewater are in energy poverty because of rising costs.

“Colder months are ahead. There’s no time to waste in getting money out the door to help Nova Scotians pay for home heating this winter,” says Churchill.