ACTON, ON –Canada's Natural Resources Minister and Halton MP Lisa Raitt, on behalf of Canada's Environment Minister Jim Prentice, today announced support from the federal government for the Halton Residential Solar Project. The project is part of Environment Canada's EcoAction Community Funding Program.

"These local projects show how ordinary Canadians, in their own communities, can help to build a more sustainable Canada. We are proud to support community groups across the country who want to take action to help preserve Canada's natural environment," said Minister Raitt.

This project is led by the Halton Environmental Network (HEN), to provide education and outreach to homeowners in Halton Region, and facilitate the adoption of solar technologies in Halton Region.

"The Halton Environmental Network is very proud of the Halton Residential Solar Project and we are delighted that the support from the EcoAction Community Funding Program has made it possible for us to launch it here today," said Rabia Yazdanie, HEN's Assistant Project Co-ordinator.  "There has been strong interest from the community and we see this as a key step in moving toward a more sustainable energy future for the region."

Each year, Environment Canada's EcoAction Community Funding Program provides financial support to locally-based, not-for-profit organizations to undertake community-level projects that have positive, measurable results for the environment.  These projects help to deliver cleaner air, cleaner water, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and help conserve nature.

Funding for these community-based environmental improvement projects across the country is provided through Environment Canada's community action programs. Community groups are encouraged to become involved.

More information about the EcoAction Community Funding Program is available on Environment Canada's Web site at: www.ec.gc.ca/EcoAction.