Money from the province's $325-million Green Energy Investment fund will be used to upgrade the 250-unit social housing complex on Bruce Avenue.
Sudbury MPP Glenn Thibeault said Friday the city will receive $2.4 million for a new heating control system for the 40-year-old building, as well as new doors and windows.
"About 20 per cent of renters in Ontario occupy social housing units,” Thibeault said at a news conference at Tom Davies Square. “And decent housing is more than just shelter. It provides stability, security and dignity for residents."
In total, $92 million of the green investment fund is earmarked for retrofitting social housing, he said. Includes installing energy-efficient boilers, windows, insulation, and lighting for social housing units larger than 150 units.
Greater Sudbury Mayor Brian Bigger said the renovations will not only improve quality of life for residents on Bruce Avenue, it will save money on hydro costs.
“The province's green investment fund will be put to work on Bruce Avenue to make apartments more comfortable, less expensive to heat and easier on the environment," he said. "Right now our annual electricity bill just for this one building is $150,000. Windows and balcony doors that haven't been replaced in 44 years will be swapped out for new thermal efficient models."
There will also be LED lighting fixtures installed in the building's common areas. Once complete, the energy savings will be the equivalent of what it takes to heat 79 homes.
"That's a significant achievement."
Bruce Avenue was picked because of its age and size, he added.
"The priorities are being selected starting with the largest buildings that are perceived to have the largest potential for payback."
