Many homeowners have a lengthy “To Do” list of upgrades and repairs that they want to make to their homes. Maybe you’ve been dreaming of some new windows, or switching to a renewable energy source by installing solar panels? Perhaps a new water heater is in order or a new thermostat to help better regulate the heating and cooling in your home? All of these things cost money. If you have been saving your money in an effort to make some upgrades to your home, the Canada Greener Homes Grant just may be the ticket. If you qualify, the Canadian Government could pay you up to $5000 to retrofit your house. So, just what is the Greener Homes grant and how do you qualify? Continue reading to learn more about this helpful initiative that entices Canadians to have more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly homes.
What Is the Greener Homes Grant
Approximately 18% of all greenhouse emissions in Canada come from buildings, including residential homes. In an effort to reduce Canada’s overall carbon footprint, the government has introduced the Greener Homes Grant. This grant could entitle you to receive up to $5000 in reimbursements for retrofitting your home insulation, windows, air sealing, and more. In addition to reducing your home’s carbon footprint, these retrofits can help you save on monthly utility costs, make your home more comfortable, and become more energy efficient.
How To Qualify
In order to qualify for the grant, you must be a Canadian homeowner. Only one homeowner per home may qualify for the grant. Additionally, you must provide proof of ownership and demonstrate that the home is your primary residence.
The first step to qualify for the grant is to conduct a pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation. This evaluation will make recommendations of qualifying retrofits to your home. Once you have completed at least one of the recommended and qualifying retrofits, you can then conduct your post-retrofit evaluation. At this point, you will be reimbursed for both evaluations, upto $600, as well as any qualifying retrofits recommended by your energy advisor. The biggest thing to understand is that this is a reimbursement process. You will not receive any grant money without the pre and post-retrofit evaluations. In addition you must have completed at least one of the recommended retrofits. Basically, If you decide to have the pre-retrofit evaluation and do not follow through with any of the recommendations, you will not receive a reimbursement. Finally, by submitting the required paperwork online, you will be reimbursed for any recommended and qualifying retrofits completed after December 1, 2020.
When it comes to taking care of your home, it can sometimes feel like a battle to decide which upgrades and changes take priority and which ones can take the backseat. With the Canadian Greener Homes Grant, you don’t need to prioritize. As long as you qualify, the Canadian Government will help you make all of the energy-efficient upgrades your home needs. For further information, you can visit their website or contact your local energy advisor to start your pre-retrofit evaluation today.