The Canada Greener Homes Grant is an initiative by the Canadian government to promote the adoption of energy-efficient practices and technologies in homes nationwide. It provides homeowners with financial incentives to undertake retrofits that improve the energy efficiency of their homes, reduce carbon emissions, and contribute to the country’s climate change objectives.
The grant covers various retrofit measures, including insulation, air sealing, and installing energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. This article will explore what the Canada Greener Homes Grant covers and how homeowners can take advantage of this opportunity to make their homes more sustainable and comfortable.
Insulation
Insufficient insulation is one of the most significant sources of energy loss in homes. With proper insulation, homeowners can reduce their energy bills, improve indoor comfort, and reduce their carbon footprint. The Canada Greener Homes Grant provides financial support for homeowners to undertake insulation upgrades, including attic, basement, and exterior wall insulation.
Air Sealing
Air leakage is another significant source of energy loss in homes. By sealing air leaks, homeowners can improve indoor comfort, reduce drafts and cold spots, and save on energy bills. The Canada Greener Homes Grant covers air sealing measures, including weather-stripping, caulking, and the installation of air barriers.
Windows and Doors
Old and inefficient windows and doors can significantly contribute to heat loss and energy waste. The Canada Greener Homes Grant covers the replacement of windows and doors with energy-efficient models. Homeowners benefit from improved comfort, reduced noise, and lower energy bills.
Heating and Cooling Systems
The Canada Greener Homes Grant covers many energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, including heat pumps, furnaces, and boilers. These systems can significantly reduce energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and enhance the home’s overall comfort. Homeowners can choose from various qualified heating and cooling systems, including ground source heat pumps, air source heat pumps, cold climate air source heat pumps, and heat pump water heaters.
Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats are an excellent way to reduce energy consumption and save on energy bills. They allow homeowners to remotely control their heating and cooling systems, set schedules, and track energy use. The Canada Greener Homes Grant covers the installation of smart thermostats, helping homeowners to optimize their energy use and improve indoor comfort.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are an excellent way to generate renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions. Solar panels can significantly reduce energy bills and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient energy system. The Canada Greener Homes Grant provides financial support for installing solar panels, allowing homeowners to benefit from free energy from the sun.
Other Eligible Measures
The Canada Greener Homes Grant covers other eligible retrofit measures, including drain water heat recovery systems, energy-efficient appliances, and air source heat pump water heaters. By undertaking these measures, homeowners can significantly reduce their energy consumption, save on energy bills, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
How Much Money Can You Get Back?
The Canada Greener Homes Grant provides up to $5,000 in grants for homeowners to make energy-efficient home upgrades. This grant covers a range of retrofits, including insulation, air sealing, windows, doors, thermostats, and various heating and cooling systems. Additionally, homeowners can receive up to an additional \$600 for the cost of an EnerGuide evaluation both before and after the upgrades are made.
For specific upgrades, the grant will cover up to $1,000 for smart thermostats, up to $2,000 for new windows and doors, and up to $5,000 for a range of heating and cooling systems, including air source and ground source heat pumps, cold climate air source heat pumps, and heat pump water heaters.
It’s important to note that the grant will cover only a portion of the total cost of the retrofit, and homeowners are expected to pay for the remainder. However, the grant can significantly offset the cost of energy-efficient upgrades and make them more accessible for homeowners.
To apply for the Canada Greener Homes Grant, homeowners should complete an EnerGuide evaluation of their homes. This evaluation will provide recommendations for energy-efficient upgrades that can be made, and the homeowner can use this information to decide which upgrades to pursue. Once the homeowner has chosen the upgrades they wish to make, they can apply for the grant through the Natural Resources Canada website.
In addition to the grant funding, the Canada Greener Homes Grant offers homeowners support throughout the retrofit process. This includes access to a network of trained energy advisors who can guide you on selecting the right upgrades for the home, as well as contractors who are certified to install the recommended retrofits.
By taking advantage of the Canada Greener Homes Grant, homeowners can save on energy bills, improve indoor comfort, and contribute to a more sustainable future for themselves and their communities. Contact Green Think INC. today for more details!
