Ontario homeowners looking to enhance their homes’ energy efficiency will soon have financial support from the provincial government. Starting January 28, the Home Renovation Savings Program will offer significant rebates for various energy-efficient home improvements.
During a press event at Northern Windows and Doors in Thunder Bay, Ontario Energy Minister Stephen Lecce and Thunder Bay-Atikokan MPP Kevin Holland outlined the details of the new initiative. The program provides up to 30% back on investments in energy-saving upgrades, including:
- New windows and doors
- Improved insulation
- Smart thermostats
- Heat pumps
- Rooftop solar panels
- Battery storage systems
Rebates will also be available for home energy assessments, with plans to expand the program to include energy-efficient appliances later this year.
“Ontario’s electricity demand is expected to surge by 75% by 2050, necessitated by population growth, industrial activity, and emerging technologies,” explained Holland. This increase equates to the energy needs of four and a half Torontos added to our current grid, emphasizing the urgency for these energy-efficient solutions.
The announcement also highlighted ongoing provincial support for Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) refurbishment of hydroelectric facilities, particularly in northern Ontario where energy demand outpaces the rest of the province. The government is dedicating $2 billion to this cause, which is part of a larger $4.6 billion project expected to generate 1,000 jobs over the next decade.
“This initiative is not just about meeting energy demands but doing so responsibly and sustainably,” said Lecce. “It’s about ensuring we not only meet today's needs but pave the way for a greener tomorrow.”
Ontarians are encouraged to take advantage of the rebate program to not only improve their home efficiency but also contribute to the province’s broader environmental goals.