Brampton's Going Dark for Earth Hour

Inbrampton.com
March 29, 2019
Jonah Shineuda

Hit the lights, Brampton--it’s almost time once again for Earth Hour, and the city plans to participate.

From 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 30, all non-essential lighting and electronics at the city’s facilities will be shut down to signal Brampton’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

However, lighting that affects public safety or service, such as streetlights, stoplights, park pathway lighting, and parking lot lights will remain on.

Brampton has participated in this global initiative since 2008, and in 2018 the city reduced its electricity consumption by 31% in 24 major facilities during the hour.

“This translates to 1,662 KW demand reduction, which is equivalent to removing 1,385 homes from the grid for the duration of Earth Hour,” the city says.

Some of Brampton’s other energy-saving initiatives include 52 electric vehicle charging stations installed city-wide, solar panels installed at five city facilities, and six city facilities using geothermal technology.

“All residents and businesses are encouraged to participate by turning off their non-essential lights during Earth Hour. Please also consider steps you can take to go beyond the hour and save energy all year round.”

Such steps include making your home energy efficient, making healthy and sustainable food choices, and walking or cycling more often to cut back on driving and using public transit.