Ontario Helps Homeowners Save on Energy Costs
May 22, 2009 2:34 PM
McGuinty Government Further Boosts Culture of Conservation
Ontario homeowners can now unlock substantially increased rebates for energy efficiency upgrades from roof to basement.
Ontario is more than doubling its investment in its popular Home Energy Savings Program.
Rebates for changes like fixing insulation in ceilings, foundations, basements, and crawl spaces as well as upgrading leaky windows and doors are increasing by 25 percent or more. Making simple efficiency upgrades at home can make a noticeable difference on energy bills.
Additional examples of program enhancements include:
- Provincial funding for solar domestic hot water systems is increasing by 150 percent — to $1250, up from $500,
- Home energy audits will soon be mandatory at the point of sale (unless waived by the buyer) and can be transferred, allowing new homeowners to take advantage of retrofit rebates.
These changes come on the heels of the passage of the Green Energy Act which seeks to build a culture of conservation in Ontario. The key to unlocking the rebates is simple - getting a home energy audit. The audit is a key step for Ontarians to understand their home's energy consumption. It provides valuable information about the energy efficiency of a home and how you can save more on your energy bill.
Quick Facts
- The province currently offers up to $150 for the cost of a home energy audit (average cost is about $300).
- The budget for the Home Energy Savings Program is increasing by $178 million over the next two years.
- The Home Energy Savings Program can assist homeowners to complete over an estimated 460,000 home energy audits and an estimated 170,000 energy efficient retrofits over the next two years.
- To date, over 150,000 Ontario homeowners have completed a home energy audit and over 52,800 homes have been retrofitted.
Learn More
- Ontario Home Energy Savings Program Key to Building a Culture of Conservation
- Get more information about Ontario's Home Energy Saving Program and how it works.
- Read more about the proposed Green Energy Act - and how it supports Ontario's efforts to build a culture of conservation.
- Find out what Ontario doing to combat climate change.
- Did you know May 17-23 is Energy Conservation Week? Find out more about how you can help conserve energy.
Ministry of Energy
ontario.ca/energy