Save money with the Canadian Greener Homes Initiative
While we may think of Canada as a leader in sustainability, we are in fact the fourth largest consumer of energy in the world and use five times the energy of the global average. To offset this consumption, the Government of Canada created the Canadian Greener Homes Initiative which offers grants of up to $5,600 to make your home more energy efficient as well as up to $40,000 interest free loans for major retrofits.
With buildings accounting for 18 percent of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions, energy-efficient retrofits are an important component of Canada’s commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.
Taking advantage of the Greener Homes Initiative to retro-fit your home with efficient upgrades, you are not only reducing our overall energy consumption but you will reduce your energy bills as well. Canadians have already received over $1M in grants, so who is eligible and how do you apply?
The operations of buildings account for 30% of global energy consumption and 26% of energy-related emissions (International Energy Agency)
Who is eligible?
Any homeowner is eligible to apply for the Greener Homes program. Proof of ownership and proof that the house is the primary residence are required. Some Indigenous governments and organisations are also eligible.
The application process may be different for residents of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Quebec. Residents of Yukon, NWT, Nunavut, Nunavik and Nunatsiavut and anyone living in off-grid communities can see their eligibility here.
What types of buildings qualify?
Almost all types of residential buildings qualify including detached and semi-detached homes, row and townhomes, permanently moored floating homes, trailer homes, all season cabins and cottages and some mixed-use and multi-unit buildings.
Products like Eco-Tech's thermal cork paints can contribute to energy savings thanks to the remarkable thermal capabilities of cork
What improvements are eligible for the grant?
There are a number of improvements covered by this grant, but it’s important to read through any of the small print to be sure that your project qualifies.
Eligible projects include insulation, air-sealing, window and door replacements, smart thermostat, more efficient heating, photovoltaic solar panels and adding resiliency measures to your home.
Products like Eco-Tech's thermal cork paints can contribute to energy savings thanks to the remarkable thermal capabilities of cork. In addition to saving energy (and money), our products contribute to LEED points as well.
How do I apply?
The Greener Homes Initiative offers a step-by-step guide including tips and advice on making the most of your grant.
Final Thoughts
We all need to do our part to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Retrofits that save energy such as spray-cork products contribute to a healthier Canada, may qualify for grant money and can save on bills in the long term.