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---Free showerheads for some Gatineau residents in bid to reduce water usage

In a bid to preserve the drinking water supply as eco-responsibly as possible, the city of Gatineau has launched a new partnership with Hydro Québec to help upgrade residents’ showerheads.  According to a press release issued by the city on June 7, the initiative is planned to help exchange 3,000 showerheads with WaterSense certified low-flow showerheads for free.

Launched as part of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s (MAMH) Stratégie québécoise d’économie d’eau potable (SQEEP), the city says the initiative is projected to help save 60 million litres of drinking water per year, and approximately $165,000 in electricity bills. The city says the program should also help decrease wastewater treatment costs and prevent the local sewer system from wear and tear and overflowing. To benefit from the program, residents who are deemed eligible are invited to visit a municipal service centre with their old showerhead and a proof of residency to obtain a new showerhead. Stating that the program is a recurring initiative, Lucerne district councillor Gilles Chagnon said it’s an important measure for the city to take to help residents save water and reduce pressure on the local water system during the summer.

Stating that the city does not meter water usage, Deschênes district councillor Mike Duggan said it’s important for the city to promote the necessity of responsible water consumption. People can verify if their address qualifies by searching the Gatineau website. Also, in partnership with Hydro Québec, the city is providing 50 per cent discounts on water-saving kits to residents who don’t live in the program’s targeted areas.The water-saving kits can be ordered through the Hydro Quebec website.