Page 25 - Off Grid East Cost Spring 2017

Hélène’s top three tips
When asked what she would say to others who might be thinking of following in her carbon-reducing footsteps, Hélène had three key messages she wanted to pass along:
1. Make sure you’re informed; do your research. “There are so many options out there and new innovations are happening all the time. Even more so now than when I built nine years ago. My parents just changed their 12 year-old heat pump and it’s amazing how much more efficient the new one is – and their old one was top-of-the-line when they bought it. So you really need to take the time to see what’s out there and what’s going to work for you.”
2. Don’t be afraid of the initial investment. “Long term it certainly does pay off. Make sure you understand all the added value and not only money wise but also comfort and impact
on the environment. It’s worth it because the home and world you live in impacts on every aspect of your life – it’s really as important as that.”
3. Anyone can do it! “Most people are surprised that I was a
30 year-old single woman building this house and doing it in
a way that was green, efficient, and cost-effective. People need to know that they’re not limited by age or gender, which I hope is a message that inspires other women out there who might be reticent or wondering if they can do it. Hell yes, you can!”
Hélène Angers lives in Edmundston, NB, and is the owner of ah! Communications, a graphic design and visual marketing firm. She is doggy mom to Jack Rose and Lily and proud aunt of four-year-old twin girls. Her passions include
gardening, cooking and traveling. She is always looking forward to her next project!
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