Durham families and businesses have access to Ontario government’s new energy efficiency initiatives, including the Home Renovation Savings Program, that helps reduce energy costs.
This effort is part of a $10.9 billion, 12-year investment in energy efficiency—the largest of its kind in Canada, according to Todd McCarthy, Member of Provincial Parliament for Durham Riding.
“These new Energy Efficiency Programs that all Durham residents have access to will lower energy bills, put more megawatts into Ontario’s energy grid, and ultimately put more money back into your pockets,” he said.
The Home Renovation Savings Program, set to launch on January 28, will offer rebates of up to 30 per cent for energy efficiency renovations, including upgrades such as windows, doors, insulation, air sealing, heat pumps, smart thermostats, and rooftop solar panels with battery storage. Later this year, the program will expand to include rebates for energy-efficient appliances like refrigerators and freezers.
Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Electrification, said the new Home Renovation Savings Program will cover up to 30 per cent of the costs on energy efficiency products. This expansion will help reduce energy bills and demand on the grid.
The programs are part of the Affordable Energy Act, which came into effect on December 4. This legislation ensures that homeowners who heat their homes with propane or oil are also eligible for the rebates, expanding accessibility beyond those who heat with electricity.
Businesses also Benefit
Businesses are also set to benefit from an expanded Peak Perks program, offering small businesses financial incentives for installing smart thermostats connected to central air systems or heat pumps. Eligible businesses can receive $75 upon enrollment and $20 annually for each connected device.
In addition to these new initiatives, Ontario will maintain 12 existing Save on Energy programs, including the Retrofit Program for businesses and targeted programs for low-income households, municipalities, and on-reserve First Nation communities.
The government estimates these expanded programs will reduce peak electricity demand by 3,000 megawatts by 2036—the equivalent of removing three million homes from the grid. The $10.9 billion investment is projected to yield $23.1 billion in system benefits and save ratepayers $12.2 billion by avoiding the need for new power generation infrastructure.
To meet growing electricity demands, which are forecasted to rise by 75 per cent by 2050 due to population growth, industry electrification, and increased electric vehicle usage, the province is pursuing a comprehensive energy strategy. This includes:
- Energy Planning: Developing Ontario’s first integrated energy plan covering all resources, including electricity, natural gas, and other fuels.
- Nuclear Energy: Advancing new nuclear projects, such as small modular reactors at Darlington and refurbishing the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station.
- Transmission Infrastructure: Prioritizing new transmission lines to support manufacturing and clean energy production.
- Clean Energy Procurement: Launching the largest procurement of clean energy resources in Ontario’s history.
Ontario residents and businesses can access these programs, including early enrollment for the Home Renovation Savings Program, through Save on Energy and Enbridge Gas conservation initiatives.
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