Join millions in support of Earth Hour on March 29

The City of Orillia is inviting residents to join millions around the world in turning off their  lights for one hour in support of Earth Hour on Saturday March 29 at 8:30 p.m.

Earth Hour is a worldwide grassroots movement uniting people to protect the planet, organized by the World Wildlife Fund. The Earth Hour initiative began as a lights-off event in Sydney, Australia in 2007 and has since grown to engage more than 7,000 cities and towns worldwide. 

Here are a few examples of ongoing City of Orillia energy saving initiatives:

• Parking lot and other exterior lighting is controlled by photo cells. They come on and off automatically and are controlled by sunlight.
• Most City buildings use energy saving thermostats or building automation systems to shut down equipment when needed (ex: after business hours and weekends.)
• When buying new equipment, the most energy-efficient options are always considered and implemented where possible.
• Over the past six years, City Centre has phased out T12 lighting in favour of T8 lighting (more energy efficient.) The upgrade is an ongoing process.
• During new construction and renovation projects, the City strives to implement the most energy efficient products, construction methods and materials.
• The City of Orillia is participating in the Provincial Green Energy Act reporting requirements. This is a multi-year program mandated by the Province to identify and implement energy use and greenhouse gas reduction initiatives. 

The City of Orillia will ensure all non-essential lighting at the Orillia City Centre is turned off during Earth Hour. City staff will also be reminded to shut off all electronics before leaving on Friday. To find out more about Earth Hour visit www.earthhour.org.