KAWARTHA LAKES- Infrastructure Minister Monte McNaughton, MPP Laurie Scott, Mayor Andy Letham and others were at Cornerstone Furnishings in Fenelon Falls this morning to update the community on natural gas expansion to Fenelon Falls, Cameron and Cambray.
“Ontario’s Government is working for the People by investing in rural and Northern Ontario, making businesses more competitive and helping people save significant money on their home heating bills,” said Infrastructure Minister Monte McNaughton. “This investment makes it clear that Ontario is open for business.”
The Ontario government is investing a total of $12.3 million to expand natural gas access to Fenelon Falls, Cameron and Cambray. Depending on their current fuel source, households benefiting from the Fenelon Falls project will be able to save up to $1,050 per year on energy costs according to the Ministry.
The project will allow an estimated 1,370 households and 155 businesses access to natural gas in Fenelon Falls, Cameron and Cambray. So far, 32 homes and one business have already been connected.
“Access to natural gas will make life more affordable for Fenelon Falls families and save local businesses money that they can use to hire new workers or invest in growing their business,” said MPP Laurie Scott. “I’m excited about the potential for natural gas expansion to promote economic development here in Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock and across rural Ontario.”
Diane McNamara, co-owner of Cornerstone Furnishings in Fenelon Falls, said “switching from oil to natural gas would save the store $3500 a year on a $9,000 heating bill. I grew up in this area and am proud to be a business owner here. I am excited the Province saw the potential in this area and made the decision to bring natural gas services here, allowing us another more affordable energy option. It is an important step towards attracting new residents and new businesses, which is good for our community.”
Cornerstone Furnishings is an independent, family-owned business that has operated for 41 years on Fenelon Falls’ main street. With natural gas access now in Fenelon Falls, the store is looking to expand its sale of household gas appliances.
“We are committed to providing the energy that Ontario residents want and need,” said Cynthia Hansen, Executive Vice President and President, Utilities and Power Operations, Enbridge Inc. “Natural gas is the most affordable way to heat our homes, and now Fenelon Falls residents can take advantage of the cost savings, and local businesses can be more competitive. We look forward to working with the government to continue to expand access to safe, reliable and abundant natural gas.”
