TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 22, 2010) - The Ontario Power Authority and Enbridge Gas Distribution (TSX:ENB) (NYSE:ENB) encourage businesses to build energy-efficiency measures into their new construction plans and take advantage of available energy-efficiency incentives before October 31, 2010.

The Ontario Power Authority has contracted with Enbridge Gas Distribution to deliver its High Performance New Construction (HPNC) program. The HPNC program, which has been available since 2008, allows businesses to be rewarded for building energy-efficiency into their new construction plans. Businesses can realize greater value for their energy dollar while reducing environmental impact. Building owners and design decision-makers for new commercial construction projects are encouraged to act quickly and take advantage of the design assistance, grants and incentives available for projects that exceed Ontario Building Code requirements for electricity efficiency. The period to submit applications closes on October 31, 2010.

New commercial construction projects (including new buildings, significant additions to existing buildings and major renovations) for offices, retail spaces, multi-unit residential buildings, affordable housing, colleges, universities, schools, hospitals, long-term care facilities, hotels, motels and agribusinesses could qualify for the HPNC program.

"As a leader in energy efficiency and environmental stewardship, Enbridge Gas Distribution has a long-time commitment of promoting and helping customers incorporate energy-efficiency measures into their new buildings and operations," said Susan Clinesmith, Program Manager for the HPNC program with Enbridge Gas Distribution. "We continually look for ways to help customers and Ontarians use energy wisely. Delivering the HPNC program is a great way to ensure energy efficiency is part of the equation from day one."

To date, more than 230 projects have been completed and have taken advantage of the available incentives and saved 16 megawatts of peak electricity demand. In addition, more than 750 projects are in various stages of design and construction. The program's goal is to save 50 megawatts of peak electricity demand.

"The HPNC program is one of those financial incentive concepts that actually works," said Paul Allen, Distribution Manager, Columbia Sportswear. "We got on board early and we're already seeing a payback. Plus, the incentives are a real bonus. Enbridge and the OPA made it easy for us to save and improve our environmental footprint."

To qualify for the HPNC Program, a new construction project must be located in Ontario (excluding the 416 area code where a similar program is managed by the City of Toronto Better Buildings Partnership New Construction Program), conform with Part 3 of the Ontario Building Code and be intended for commercial, institutional, industrial or multi-unit residential occupancy. Agricultural buildings may also apply. Enbridge will receive applications up to and including October 31, 2010, and projects must be completed, evaluated and deliver energy savings by December 2012.

The HPNC program is focused on reducing electricity demand. Applicants don't have to be Enbridge or Union Gas customers or use natural gas in their projects to participate. For those planning to use natural gas, there are opportunities to apply for additional design and construction incentives through natural gas utility programs on the same application.

There are two ways for projects to qualify for incentives. Participants can choose from a pre-approved list of electricity-saving technologies and receive $250 per kilowatt of verified savings. Alternatively, participants can qualify for custom incentives when they undertake energy-efficient upgrades and design changes in their new construction project. These incentives range from $250 to $500 per kilowatt saved.

For more information on the HPNC program call 1-888-OPA-HPNC (1-888-672-4762) or visit www.hpnc.ca. Applications are available online.

About the Ontario Power Authority
The Ontario Power Authority is responsible for ensuring a reliable, sustainable supply of electricity for Ontario. Its four key areas of focus are: planning the power system for the long term, leading and co-ordinating conservation initiatives across the province, ensuring development of needed generation resources and supporting the continued evolution of the electricity sector.

About Enbridge Gas Distribution
Enbridge Gas Distribution has a 160-year history and is Canada's largest natural gas distribution company. It is owned by Enbridge Inc., a Canadian-based leader in energy transportation and distribution and one of the 2010 Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations. Enbridge Inc. has been selected as one of Canada's Greenest Employers for 2010 and is one of Canada's Top 100 Employers. Enbridge Gas Distribution and its affiliates distribute natural gas to about 1.9 million customers in Ontario, Quebec, New York State and New Brunswick. For more information, visit www.enbridgegas.com.