If you have been thinking of doing some upgrades around the house - time to check out this newly launched Canada Greener Homes Grant - and maybe save yourself some money, while completing some all important energy efficient improvements to your home.   

The federal government has recently launched this program to allow Canadians to apply for grant funding up to $5,000 for energy saving home upgrades and evaluations.  There are a number of eligible items for potential reimbursement, things like insulation, doors, windows, heating systems and more.  There is a mandatory pre and post evaluation required, that comes at a cost, however this evaluation cost is also eligible for reimbursement through the grant. 

All of the costs of the energy evaluations and energy improvements must be paid by the homeowner first, then can be reimbursed through the program.  

There are a few steps to the program, but the portal makes it easy for you to get through the details. Here is a recap of the program and how you can apply:

Step 1 - Review the Grant and your eligibility:

Visit Government of Canada Greener Homes Grant website and learn more about this grant initiative and how you can apply.

Step 2 - Register for the program and book your first evaluation:

If this grant sounds like an option for you, time to register for the program and book your initial EnerGuide evaluation with a NRCan registered energy advisor.  This evaluation is a mandatory part of the program, and this initial energy assessment must be completed BEFORE any work begins.

Step 3 - Review evaluation report, plan and complete at least one retrofit:

Once the assessment is complete, you will receive your EnerGuide evaluation from your advisor.  Now it is time to review the recommendations, and decide which retrofits you will undertake.  You will need to undertake at least one of the recommended retrofits in the program if you wish to apply for the grant.  And be sure to keep your documentation and receipts for the work that has been completed - you will need this documentation to apply for the grant.  

Step 4 - Book your second evaluation to assess the work and apply for reimbursement:  

When you have completed your energy improvements that were itemized as part of your initial energy evaluation, time to have this work assessed.  You will need to book an energy advisor to complete this evaluation and review your improvements.   Then it’s time to submit your documents for reimbursement.

Step 5 - Review the response and $:  

The final step once you have submitted your request for reimbursement, you will be asked to confirm some information provided, then hopefully the money is on it’s way!

This program is very similar to an earlier energy audit program which I took advantage of a number of years ago.  The process was very similar and I was able to offset the cost of the spray foam insulation - it sure was nice to have this cost of my renovation reimbursed by our government!  And with the rising cost of building supplies these days, every bit counts!

Please check out this new program and see if it may work for you!