Toronto homeowners can take advantage of various provincial and federal programs offering rebates for energy-efficient home improvements. Programs such as Canada’s Greener Homes Grant provide financial assistance for installing heat pumps, improving insulation, and upgrading heating systems.
1. Canada Greener Homes Grant
The Canada Greener Homes Grant offers financial support to homeowners aiming to improve their home’s energy efficiency. Eligible homeowners can receive:
•Up to $5,000 for implementing energy-efficient retrofits, such as home insulation, windows and doors, heat pumps, and renewable energy installations. Canada Greener Homes Initiative
•Up to $600 to cover the costs of pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluations.
Eligibility Criteria:
•You must own a detached, semi-detached, or row house.
•The home must be your primary residence.
•Both recent and new retrofits are eligible, provided they meet the program’s criteria.
Application Process:
1.Register and apply through the Canada Greener Homes Grant portal.
2.Undergo a pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation by a certified energy advisor.
3.Complete the recommended retrofits.
4.Conduct a post-retrofit evaluation.
5.Submit all required documentation to receive the grant.
Note: As of the latest update, the Canada Greener Homes Grant is no longer accepting new applicants. Homeowners already participating are encouraged to proceed with their planned retrofits.
2. Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+)
Enbridge Gas, in collaboration with the Government of Canada, offers the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus program to assist Ontario homeowners in making energy-efficient upgrades. This program provides:
•Up to $10,000 in rebates for eligible retrofits, including home insulation, windows and doors, heat pumps, and renewable energy installations.
•Up to $600 towards the cost of required home energy assessments.
Eligibility Criteria:
•You must be a customer of Enbridge Gas.
•The home must be heated with natural gas provided by Enbridge.
Application Process:
1.Contact a registered energy advisor to perform a pre-retrofit energy assessment.
2.Complete at least one eligible retrofit.
3.Undergo a post-retrofit energy assessment.
4.Submit all necessary documentation to receive the rebate.
Note: Due to high demand, the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus program has temporarily paused intake of new applicants as of January 19, 2024. Interested homeowners can sign up for updates on future program availability.
3. Ontario’s New Energy Efficiency Programs
The Government of Ontario has launched and expanded several energy efficiency programs to help homeowners reduce energy consumption and costs. These initiatives include:
•Peak Perks Program: Offers financial incentives for using smart thermostats to manage energy use during peak periods. Participants receive a $75 enrollment incentive and $20 annually for each eligible smart thermostat connected to a central air conditioning system or heat pump unit.
•Home Renovation Savings Program: Provides rebates for energy-efficient home renovations, such as upgrading insulation, windows, and heating systems. Details about this program can be found on the Save on Energy website.
4. Canada Greener Homes Loan
For homeowners seeking financial assistance for energy-efficient retrofits, the Canada Greener Homes Loan offers interest-free loans of up to $40,000. This loan aims to help cover the cost of major retrofits identified through the EnerGuide evaluation. The loan program remains open to new applicants, unaffected by the recent updates associated with the federal grant program.
Important Considerations:
•Program Availability: Some programs may have limited availability or temporary pauses due to high demand. It’s essential to verify the current status of each program before proceeding.
•Combining Incentives: Homeowners may be eligible for multiple programs, but it’s crucial to review each program’s terms to understand how they can be combined.
•Stay Informed: Program details and availability can change. Regularly check official government websites or contact program administrators for the most up-to-date information.
By taking advantage of these rebates and incentives, Toronto homeowners can make energy-efficient upgrades that enhance comfort, reduce energy bills, and contribute to environmental sustainability.
