First, my apologies for the delay and lack of updates. Since the last information update, the exchange for a different size woodstove has been completed, with the Blaze King Princess PE32 model being selected for the program. You can visit the Blaze King website for further details and specs. Home inspections were also re-assessed to order chimney parts for those homes approved for the program. Having a complete install with new chimneys will ensure safety and maximize efficiency.
The new stoves and parts arrived in Goose Bay in early November. Since then, we’ve organized, separated and prepared materials for shipment to each community. All stoves and materials made it on the last Kamutik W trip up the coast and are now in storage in each community. A request for tenders was released mid-November to hire an installer and we are in the final stages of securing a contractor to do the installs.
Everyone who is receiving a woodstove for this round of the program has been contacted. We will reach out to everyone to schedule a time for installation when contractor is secured. We will arrange installs as weather allows between now and spring.
For the residents contributing 25% to the install, if you are not able to pay the total up front, we will discuss an option to pay in installments. Once the full balance is paid, we will add you to the installation schedule.
If you have questions, comments, or concerns please contact the Nunatsiavut Government. As this is a learning process for everybody, feedback, whether good or bad, is appreciated. This will assist in improving the program and fixing any problems that arise.
These high efficiency woodstoves are very different to operate than conventional woodstoves and require extra effort to run efficiently. We will share tips and provide info to make it easier on our Facebook page. If you need assistance with operation or if it is not working properly, please contact us so that we can address the issue.
We will be releasing another round of applications in the coming months, with plans to install an additional 100 woodstoves. We will inform everyone through our communication channels when these are available. As you consider applying, please keep in mind that this program specifically supplies high efficiency woodstoves, funded for reducing emissions and cutting down on the amount of wood needed. If this type of woodstove is not for you or if you are in urge need of a new woodstove, I recommend applying to other programs within NG such as the home repair program.
This program has been delayed much longer than anticipated, but these major issues needed to be resolved appropriately to ensure a safe and quality install to the homeowner.