North Island-Powell River MP Rachel Blaney has signed onto the Universal Heat Pump Program pledge to promote heat pumps in homes across Canada.
“The summer of 2021 was a shocking glimpse into a possible future if we do not address the climate crisis,” stated Blaney, in a media release. “Tackling the problem not only means tackling the climate crisis, it also means reducing energy bills and helping families save money. Heat pumps are an essential tool to fighting the climate crisis and making life more affordable. This program will also create jobs.”
The campaign calls on MPs in Canada to support the program, which would be overseen by a publicly-owned entity to produce, distribute and install heat pumps. Additionally, the program includes tenant protections. Blaney signed the pledge on July 29, 2024.
“We’re thrilled that MP Blaney has listened to her constituents and pledged to fight for a Universal Heat Pump Program,” stated Atiya Jaffar, Interim Canada Team Lead, 350.org. “She clearly understands the benefits of heat pumps and sees that we need to move beyond piecemeal rebate programs to make sure everyone can access this life-saving, money-saving climate solution at the speed and scale the climate crisis demands. We’ll be counting on her and the other Heat Pumps for All champions to make this vision a reality in the House of Commons.”
In 2023, the NDP proposed a motion to force oil and gas companies to pay taxes on their excess profits, according to the release. Those taxes would have brought in an estimated $4 billion over four years with a 15 per cent tax, money that would have helped pay for heat pumps to be available for low- and middle-income households.
“I was disappointed but not surprised when the Liberals and Conservatives joined forces to vote down that motion,” stated Blaney. “Canadians continue to look to the government for leadership on climate change, but the Liberals and Conservatives continue to show that their loyalty belongs with the rich CEOs and corporate polluters who make the climate crisis worse. Canadians shouldn’t be forced to endure the consequences of climate change while the rich continue getting richer.”
Jordana Pangburn, local organizer of Heat Pumps for All, stated that a universal heat pump program would help tackle the climate crisis and affordability crisis at the same time.
“I got involved in the Heat Pumps for All campaign because everyday families like mine have been left to shoulder the burden of climate impacts like extreme heat while fossil fuel companies rake in obscene profits,” added Pangburn. “I’m glad that MP Blaney has pledged to fight for it. I hope to see other elected representatives join this movement and commit to supporting universal access to heating and cooling that won’t worsen the climate crisis. Heat Pumps for All is one of many examples of the kind of bold action my generation needs.”
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