Despite cutting its energy consumption, the Greater Essex County District School Board says it is struggling to pay its hydro bill.
Trustee Ron LeClair had asked for a report comparing consumption and hydro costs over the two years. The results were striking. The board managed to cut energy use by 2.4-million kWh in 2015, and by 2.1-million kWh last year. At the same time, its bill increased by 19.9%.
Funding from the province covers much of that increase, but it still leaves the board with a 5.2% shortfall.
"Every dollar that we receive that is a shortfall has to come from our operation line," he says. "So that doubled with what is already a troubling funding model makes it so difficult for us to balance our budget."
LeClair says schools can step up their eco-school efforts, but in the end, there is only so much the board can do to cut consumption.
"There comes a point where you've maxed out your consumption reduction," he says.
The board is not alone. Residents across the province are making the tough decision whether to feed their families or pay their bill. At Windsor Regional Hospital, CEO David Musyj admitted hydro costs are climbing to unsustainable rates there too.
LeClair plans to introduce a notice of motion calling on trustees to send the province a letter urging it to provide adequate funding to cover the cost of hydro.
- With files from Maureen Revait
