On Wednesday, July 7, 2021, Council unanimously approved the Better Homes Loan Program which will enable homeowners to access financing to pay for home energy improvements and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Homeowners could qualify for up to $125,000 or 10 per cent of their home’s value for eligible improvements, which include upgrades for space and water heating, as well as renewable energy systems. The program will be available to all detached, semi-detached, townhouse or multi-unit resident building (three stories or less) unit owners within the City of Ottawa boundaries.
This program will work in tandem with other rebate and incentive programs such as the Canada Greener Homes Grant and others listed below.
The launch date will be announced very soon. We will keep you updated through this newsletter. Please keep in mind that any work completed prior to applying for the program will not be eligible for financing.
Other home energy efficiency incentive and rebate programs
There are several other rebate and incentive programs that can help you to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient. Many of these can be combined with the Better Homes Loan Program.
To be eligible for the Better Homes Loan Program (as well as many of the other programs below), the first step is to get an EnerGuide home evaluation and request quotes from contractors. A registered energy advisor will look at how your home uses energy and tell you which upgrades will help you save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. For work to be eligible for financing under the Better Homes Loan Program, it must be completed after an application has been approved by the City.
Canada Greener Homes Grant
Homeowners can get up to $5,000 for energy efficient retrofits and up to $600 for an EnerGuide evaluation. Upgrades that qualify for the grant include insulation, air sealing, windows and doors, heat pumps and hot water equipment and solar panels. Learn more about the Canada Greener Homes Grant.
Enbridge Home Energy Efficiency Rebate
Enbridge Gas customers can get up to $5,000 for energy efficiency upgrades including insultation, air sealing, windows and doors. Learn more about the Home Energy Rebate program.
Enbridge Smart Thermostat Program
Enbridge Gas customers can receive an instant $75 rebate towards a qualifying smart thermostat purchase. Learn more about the Smart Thermostat Program.
Enbridge Home Winterproofing Program
Income-qualifying Enbridge Gas customers can receive free energy-saving improvements such as draft proofing and insulation. Learn more about the Home Winterproofing Program.
Save On Energy – Energy Affordability Program
Tenants and homeowners can get free energy efficiency upgrades including insulation, air sealing, energy efficient appliances and energy saving kits. The type of support provided depends on your household income. Learn more about the Energy Affordability Program.
