A first centre of interpretation of renewable energy in Quebec has opened its doors in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, following an initiative of the local ‘Fondation Jeunesse Richelieu’ (the Richelieu Youth Foundation). L'Agence de l'efficacité énergétique du Québec has participated in the official inauguration of the centre, represented by its president, Luce Asselin.
This centre wants to be a real community-project and a living laboratory for the young. It is located in the court-yard of the Richelieu primary school and this centre of interpretation regroups under one and the same roof different manifestations of several forms of renewable energy. The building is also equipped with a wind turbine, sun panels, a geothermic system, a weather station, recuperators of rain water, a compost toilet and a greenhouse.
Luce Asselin has mentioned: « This project is of particular importance for the Agence de l'efficicacité énergétique because we will heighten the awareness of the young for sustainable development and for efficient use of energy. We have seen in this partnership the possibility to participate in making students more aware while opting for a dynamic educational approach ».
The Agence will provide a contribution of 50 000 $ to the project in order to be able to participate jointly in the elaboration of educational material which will be used to heighten the awareness of visitors.
In conclusion, the president of the Agence said : « With this centre, we show that there exist in Quebec different sources of clean and renewable energy, which are accessible, and that all of us can participate in the protection of the environment by using them adequately ».