Ontario is rolling out new energy efficiency programs.
It includes a program to help homeowners offset the cost of renovations that reduce their energy costs.
The new Home Renovation Savings Program will offer rebates of up to 30% on such things as new windows, doors, insulation, air sealing, smart thermostats, and heat pumps, as well as rooftop solar panels and battery storage systems for people who want to generate and store energy at home.
Energy Minister Stephen Lecce says the program differs from previous rebate initiatives.
“This rebate will be available to all homeowners, regardless of how they heat their homes. And families will receive a service commitment that all rebates must be paid on time within 60 days after a complete programme application is approved,” says Lecce.
Lecce says the savings will be significant, with some facilities saving thousands of dollars depending on the improvements taking place.
The province is also looking to expand the program this year to offer rebates on energy efficient appliances.
The program launches on January 28th but families can sign up now at www.saveonenergy.ca.
The province is also expanding the Peak Perks program that provides a financial incentive of $75 to small business that enroll in the program and $20 each year for every smart thermostat installed to their air conditioning or heat pump unit.
Twelve other programs also continue, including the Retrofit Program for business.
Other programs geared toward low-income households, businesses, municipalities, institutions, the agricultural sector, industry and First Nations communities also remain.
To keep the programs in place, Lecce says $10.9 billion dollars will be made available over the next 12 years.
“This $10.9 billion investment will help us avoid $23 billion in electricity systems costs. That means an overall savings to the ratepayer of this province of over $12 billion. That is more than $2 of savings for every dollar we invest,” says Lecce.
More information and how to register for the programs can be found on the Save On Energy website.
