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. Residents can access grants through CleanBC rebate programs and the Canada Greener Homes Program.
Clean BC - Better Homes Program
North Cowichan is participating in the Clean BC “Better Homes” rebate program offered by the Province of BC. This program offers provincially funded rebates for homeowners to undertake energy efficiency and electrification upgrades through the CleanBC Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Program, CleanBC Income Qualified Program and CleanBC Low Interest Financing Program.
The Province of BC administers these programs and provides provincially-funded rebates and loans. Rebates available to each specific homeowner vary based on program offerings and the utility provider providing energy service to your home.
North Cowichan is also providing funding from the Climate Action Reserve Fund to top-up the provincial rebates on a first-come first-served basis. This top-up rebate will be distributed by the province on behalf of North Cowichan and no additional application process is required.
North Cowichan has provided additional funding for the rebates below:
- Electric Service Upgrade - $500/participant
- Fuel Switch Heat Pump - $350/participant
- Heat Pump Water Heater - $350/participant
For full program details, eligibility, and comprehensive information on rebates available to you see: www.betterhomesbc.ca.
Canada Greener Homes Initiative
The Government of Canada offers grants and interest-free loans through the Canada Greener Homes Initiative:
- Canada Greener Homes Grant and Loan. Homeowners interested in these programs will need to complete both a program application and EnerGuide Home Evaluation before renovations begin.
- Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program (for income-qualified households)