Rethinking Lifestyle

We have great news for Steinbach and the whole southeast of Manitoba. You may have heard that South Eastman Transition Initiative has invited southeast Manitoba’s most exciting innovators and experts in renewable energy to a Renewable Energy Show at the Mennonite Heritage Village from 1pm to 5pm on Saturday, April 16, 2016. This unprecedented event will see a full spectrum of local vendors assembled under one roof to share their experience installing geothermal, solar, wind and other emerging technologies, all specific to Manitoba. And that’s what is so unique about this event. A singularly Manitoba-based focus is hugely beneficial where the information from media and internet are too often based on Australian climates, European technology or American dollars. Here, you’ll have a chance to ask your most Manitoba-centric questions face-to-face with the professionals who have real answers. For advice tailored to your own home, bring in your home’s annual energy use in kilowatt-hours. You can find this by adding up your energy bills or by simply calling MB Hydro for an estimate.

From zero/low-cost DIY to large-scale industrial projects, no topic has been left out. Learn about beautiful, super-efficient masonry heaters by Keystone Masonry; research options for a wood biomass boiler with HeatMasterSS; discover the cost savings of geothermal heating & cooling with Keating Mechanical; discuss plans for off-grid living (and much more) with Gerhard from Northern Sun Farm Co-op; explore the internationally-recognized Passive House standard with Sun Dial Building Performance; consult Manitoba’s renewable energy leaders Evolve Green and Solar Solutions for product and design advice on the newest off-grid or grid-tied technologies… to name only a few options!

More exciting still are the engaging speakers that will be offering informative, inspiring break-out sessions throughout the event. Leaders in Manitoba’s grassroots effort to transition the province to 50% renewable energy use by 2030, Bruce Duggan, Daniel Lepp Friesen & Justin Phillips will show us what we can do to contribute, and reveal the phenomenal potential our province holds. Topics will include: “What can I Do? Where to Begin Transition to Sustainablility”, “Renewable Energy in Manitoba Today” and Eric Bjornson’s fascinating coverage of the Passive House Standard in Canada. Justin Phillips will also discuss his vision for a MB Centre for Sustainability & Green Technology.

Expect to see students, builders, policy advocates, as well as everyday homeowners and renters like yourself – all with a desire to make a change. Clearly, Manitobans are moving past the old way of waiting for change. They’re taking the responsibility into their own hands, benefitting themselves and all of our children in the process. Whether your goal is to save money, increase independence, or create a sustainable future, don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to meet people who are passionate about sustainability and energy security – and get your project started!