In order to better engage rural Ontarians around energy conservation, Summerhill developed and managed a traveling retail event on behalf of Hydro One Networks and The Home Depot Canada. The Power$aver Tour traveled to 11 different local festivals and events, educating residential customers and small business owners about energy efficiency and simple energy reduction solutions.

Summerhill hired, trained, and managed in-field environmental ambassadors who were able to positively engage over 600,000 hard-to-reach Ontarians regarding energy conservation. We also gathered and analyzed unique behavioural and product usage data through the Power$aver survey of rural customers.

The Power$aver Tour introduced new products to rural target markets by providing participating communities with energy conserving products that were not generally available at the time in rural Ontario. Participants were given a free CFL and the opportunity to purchase 12 different energy efficient products, including CFLs, timers, and programmable thermostats, at significantly discounted prices. Small business owners were also provided with access to the Cool Shops (insert link) program and a free energy assessment of facilities near the festival locations. With the free installation of CFLs and LED exit signs, business owners were able to see the immediate savings attached to these products.