Wood pellet appliance rebate deadline approaches

Feb. 25, 2011 – The deadline for homeowners
in Newfoundland and Labrador to apply for a rebate under the Residential Wood
Pellet Appliance Rebate Program is March 18, 2011. The program provides a 25%
reimbursement to those who purchase and install a wood pellet appliance.

“The rebate program has been well received
by residents who have purchased a wood pellet appliance and has supported our
goal of creating a demand for locally produced wood pellets,” says the
Honourable Shawn Skinner, minister of natural resources and minister
responsible for the forestry and agrifoods agency. “Residents who have or who
are considering purchasing or installing an appliance are encouraged to submit
their application before the deadline.”

The Residential Wood Pellet Appliance
Rebate Program was introduced in 2008 as an initiative under the Forest
Industry Diversification Program to help diversify the industry and identify
new markets. Since that time, 481 rebates at an average of $581 each have been
issued to qualifying homeowners.

Two local companies are currently
manufacturing pellets: Exploits Pelletizing, a division of Blanchard’s Cabinet
Doors in Bishop’s Falls; and Cottles Island Lumber Co. in Summerford. A third
pellet plant is under construction in Roddickton on the Northern Peninsula.
Holson Forest Products anticipates opening the plant this spring and having
wood pellets available later this year.

Details on the rebate, program requirements,
and application forms can be obtained online at
www.gov.nl.ca/nr/forms/forestry/index.html as well as from wood pellet
appliance vendors in the province or by calling 709-637-2349.