Federal, provincial programs aim to help with home energy efficiency
By Lanny McInnes
Date Posted: November 26, 2022
Increasing the energy efficiency of our homes has been a major focus for all levels of government as well as for Manitoba homeowners. You can now access Federal and Provincial programs that provide incentives and financing options to help you accomplish your energy goals. Significant savings and financing options for both major projects and smaller energy efficiency improvements in your home are available through two pathways:
Federal Programs:
Greener Homes Grant and Interest Free Loan
These programs can help to finance home efficiency upgrades through a matching grant for a portion of some upgrades (up to $5,000) as well as an interest-free loan (up to $40,000 per home). To access these incentives, a homeowner will need to have an energy advisor to complete an EnerGuide audit on your home
For more information about these programs check out: nrcan.gc.ca, or cmhc-schl.gc.ca.
Provincial Programs:
Efficiency Manitoba
Multiple rebate and program offers are available to homeowners for energy efficiency upgrades including insulation.
In addition, homeowners can finance the cost of energy efficiency upgrades through Manitoba Hydro’s Home Energy Efficiency Loan. The monthly payment is added to your energy bill and no down payment is required.
Efficiency Manitoba’s Home Energy Retrofit program requires an EnerGuide evaluation by an energy advisor. As well, Efficiency Manitoba’s New Homes Program provides incentives for those who are building a new home. For more information on rebates and incentives from Efficiency Manitoba check out: efficiencymb.ca.
To meet this demand for more energy advisors, Manitoba Environmental Industries Association (MEIA), in collaboration with Red River College Polytechnic and supporting partners created the Registered Energy Advisor Training program. If you are interested in more information on career opportunities as a Registered Energy Advisor, please visit MEIA’s website at: meia.mb.ca/certified-energy-advisor-training/.
Lanny McInnes is the President & CEO of the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association.