Nanaimo Incentives Include Water Cisterns

Nanaimo has added rainwater cisterns to its list of incentives for residents.  Large underground rainwater cisterns are fairly common in Europe and frequently installed before a new build.  Locally, rain barrels can be purchased at various stores.  We are told garbage cans can work equally well if you don't mind the dipping to hand water or a small tap can be installed for easier access or to attach a soaker hose.  It is important to prevent your barrel from becoming a mosquito breeding ground so keeping a lid on it is important and some add a thin layer of cooking oil to the surface to prevent mosquitoes breeding.

By Contributed - Nanaimo News Bulletin

Published: May 07, 2012 11:00 AM

The Regional District of Nanaimo is helping residents get a little greener by providing rebates for eco-friendly upgrades.

This spring, the RDN is offering rainwater cistern, woodstove exchange, solar hot water system, residential electric vehicle charging station, home energy assessment, graded site-cut lumber and toilet replacement rebates.

The incentive programs, which began May 1, are available on a first come, first serve basis and purchases for upgrades must be made after the start day to qualify. Pre-approval for the rainwater harvesting incentive is required.

Residents in the RDN electoral areas and Nanaimo, Lantzville, Parksville and Qualicum Beach could qualify for a rebate up to $750 to install a 3,700-litre cistern for rain capture.

Electoral area residents can apply for a $50 rebate if they replace a conventional toilet with a dual flush or high-efficiency alternative.

Residents could also qualify for a $50 rebate, for the Green Building incentives, by meeting with the RDN’s sustainability coordinator and complete the sustainable development checklist. People who achieve a high score could get an additional $500 to $1,000.

For more information and a list of incentive programs and rebates, please  go to www.rdn.bc.ca