Home Efficiency Rebate (HER) Is Back: Up to $5600 For Energy Upgrades in Ottawa
Oct 4, 2024
Oct 4, 2024
7 min read
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Ottawa homeowners have another excellent opportunity to make their homes more energy-efficient thanks to the Home Efficiency Rebate (HER) program.
Supported by the government and Enbridge Gas, this program was temporarily closed but relaunched starting July 15, 2024, and provides significant financial rebates for eco-friendly home upgrades like new windows and doors replacement, insulation, heat pump installation, etc.
With a maximum rebate of $5,000 and a $600 reimbursement bonus for energy assessments, it’s never been a better time to take advantage of these savings and renovate your home.
Keep reading to learn all the details and apply for up to $5600 in rebates for your next home improvement project!
How Much Can You Save on Home Upgrades with HER?
One of the best parts of the Home Efficiency Rebate is the variety of upgrades it covers. Here is the list of all major upgrades you can expect to apply for:
- Windows/entry doors/sliding patio doors/skylights – Up to $5000 ($50 per rough opening)
- Attic insulation – Up to $1,500
- Exposed floor insulation – $300
- Air sealing – Up to $180
- Exterior wall insulation – Up to $3,600
- Basement insulation – Up to $3,500
- Heat pumps – Up to $3,000
To qualify for the rebate, windows, doors, skylights, and sliding doors must be replaced with ENERGY STAR-certified models only. The program requires a minimum of three windows or one door, skylight, or sliding door to be replaced with these energy-efficient options.
Don’t forget to keep the ENERGY STAR labels on your windows and doors until after your Post-Audit.
Remember that all Ecoline windows and doors qualify for the maximum rebate. Contact us today to receive a free quote and consultation regarding your upcoming replacement project.
Eligibility Criteria
Knowing if your home qualifies is important before applying for the Home Efficiency Rebate. The program is open to various properties —detached, semi-detached, row houses, and mobile homes — provided they are on a permanent foundation. Both primary and non-primary residences are eligible, but the key is that the homeowner must be the one applying.
The following types of homes ARE NOT eligible under the HER initiative:
- Homes that are not space-heated by Enbridge at either the time of the Pre-Audit or the Post-Audit.
- Homes less than 6 months old.
- Multi-unit residential buildings (MURB) with more than 3 storeys or building area larger than 600 m2, including retirement homes.
- Low-rise MURB’s (3 storeys or less with a building area of 600 m2 or less).
To participate, you must complete at least two eligible energy upgrades. Additionally, your home must be heated with Enbridge Gas during the first or final assessment.
A timeline is also in place: once your first assessment is completed, you have 120 days to complete the upgrades and schedule the final energy assessment with your advisor.
How to Apply for the Home Efficiency Rebate: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for the Home Efficiency Rebate (HER) is simple when you follow these steps:
- Step 1. Book a First Energy Assessment
Contact a registered energy advisor to schedule an assessment of your home. This evaluation will help pinpoint where energy-efficient upgrades are needed, such as windows, doors, or insulation.
- Step 2. Review the Assessment Results
After the assessment, review the advisor’s recommendations. Choose at least two eligible upgrades that meet the program’s criteria (e.g., replacing windows with ENERGY STAR-certified models).
- Step 3. Complete the Upgrades
Proceed with the recommended upgrades, ensuring Enbridge Gas heats your home during the first or final assessment.
- Step 4. Schedule a Final Assessment
Once home upgrades are completed, schedule a follow-up assessment. Remember, the final assessment must be conducted within 120 days of the initial one.
- Step 5. Submit Your Application
After completing the final assessment, submit your rebate application and all the necessary documentation.
- Step 6. Receive Your Rebate
If all criteria are met, you can receive up to $5,000 in rebates plus a $600 reimbursement for the home energy assessment fees. Cheques will be awarded starting January 2025.
Don’t Miss Your Opportunity to Save Big
The Home Efficiency Rebate (HER) is a fantastic opportunity for Ottawa homeowners to make their homes more energy-efficient while enjoying significant financial benefits. With up to $5,000 in rebates and a $600 reimbursement for energy assessments, homeowners can upgrade their windows, doors, insulation, and more, all while reducing energy bills and contributing to a greener environment.
Whether you’re upgrading your primary or secondary residence, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the HER program’s relaunch. By completing the necessary steps and choosing energy-efficient improvements, you’ll be investing in the long-term comfort and value of your home. Don’t miss out— contact Ecoline rebate experts today and start saving with HER!
FAQ
What is a home energy assessment?
A home energy assessment thoroughly evaluates your home’s energy use. A certified energy advisor checks areas like windows, doors, and insulation to identify ways to improve efficiency. This assessment is required to qualify for rebates under the Home Efficiency Rebate program.
Do I have to pay for the home energy assessment?
Yes, you initially pay for the home energy assessment. Still, the HER program offers a reimbursement of up to $600 for the assessment fee once your upgrades and final assessment are completed. This helps offset the cost and makes the program even more beneficial.
When will I get my rebate?
After completing your renovations and submitting the application for the Home Efficiency Rebate along with all needed documents, the cheques will be awarded starting January 2025.
How much can I save with HER?
With the Home Efficiency Rebate (HER), you can receive up to $5,000 for eligible energy-efficient upgrades. This includes replacing windows, doors, insulation, heat pump installation, etc. Additionally, you can save even more on utility bills by improving your home’s overall energy performance.
Can I combine the Canada Greener Homes Loan and Home Efficiency Rebate in Ottawa?
Yes, homeowners in Ottawa can apply for both the Canada Greener Homes Loan (up to $40,000) and the Home Efficiency Rebate (up to $5,600). By combining these programs, you can maximize financial support for your energy-efficient upgrades, helping you save more while improving your home’s energy performance.