Energy Efficient Housing

North Cowichan's existing and future housing sector accounts for a significant portion of our community's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.  Creating and maintaining an energy efficient housing stock will be critical for North Cowichan to reach its GHG emissions targets of an 80% reduction by 2050.  In 2020, Council made the decision to partner with the Provincial Government on an initiative aimed at improving the energy efficiency in our community's residential housing stock - see below for more details.

Clean BC - Better Homes Program

North Cowichan is participating in the Clean BC “Better Homes” rebate program offered by the Provincial Government. The program offers provincially funded rebates for homeowners upgrading their space and water heating systems, completing energy assessments or improving their homes efficiency.  The main focus of the Better Homes program is to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in the residential housing sector by improving household energy efficiency.

In response to the Province's call for local governments to offer additional incentives to increase uptake in their jurisdiction, North Cowichan is providing funding from the Climate Action Reserve Fund. This is in addition to provincial rebates, to encourage energy efficiency in North Cowichan and reduce our community’s greenhouse gas emissions.  Starting July 1, 2020, homeowners within North Cowichan will be eligible for the additional, top-up rebates which are distributed by the provincial government on a first-come first-served basis.

How do I apply for rebates?

The Provincial Government administers this program and provides thier own provincially funded rebates.  The province also distributes municipal rebates on behalf of North Cowichan.  To see full program details and to search for incentives applicable to your home see: www.betterhomesbc.ca

What rebates are available?

The rebates available to each specific home owner vary based on which utility provider supplies the energy to your home (e.g. BC Hydro, Fortis BC or a Municipal Utility). To discover the current rebates being offered through the Better Homes project, please use their Rebate Search Tool here.

The Municipality of North Cowichan has provided additional funding for the rebates below:

  • Fuel Switch Heat Pump - $350/participant
  • EnerGuide Home Evaluation - $150/participant
  • Electric Service Upgrade - $500/participant
  • Heat Pump Water Heater - $350/participant
  • Window and Door Upgrade - $50/item (up to 20 items)

Where can I find more information on the Clean BC Better Homes Program?

Since the BC government administers the top-up program on behalf of North Cowichan, specific details about the program are best answered by the Provincial Government.  For full program details, eligibility, and comprehensive information on rebates available to you see: www.betterhomesbc.ca.   

For a list of frequently asked questions see: https://betterhomesbc.ca/renovation/faq/

 

Last edited: May 16, 2022

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