Ontario launching rebates for energy efficient home renovations and upgrades

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Ontario is introducing two new energy efficiency programs, including one offering rebates for certain home improvements.

The Home Renovation Savings Program, launching Jan. 28, will rebate homeowners up to 30 per cent of the cost of energy efficiency renovations and improvements, such as new windows, doors, insulation, air sealing, smart thermostats, heat pumps, and rooftop solar panels and battery storage systems.

The province is also expanding the residential Peak Perks program to small businesses, giving them a $75 virtual prepaid credit card for each eligible smart thermostat connected to a central air conditioning system or heat pump unit, and another $20 for each additional year in the program.

Energy Minister Stephen Lecce said the home renovation program will mean both upfront and long-term savings for Ontarians.

"A family ... looking to keep themselves warm over the winter by upgrading their insulation, their windows and doors, they'd receive a rebate of up to $8,900 for insulation, and $100 for every door, for every window that they will replace," he said at a news conference.

"Take for example a homeowner that invests $15,000 in a new heat pump. They could see a $4,500 rebate up front, while benefiting from an ongoing savings of up to 50 per cent on their heating portion of the electricity bill."