Residential retrofits program refreshed

Canadians considering energy-efficiency upgrades have an added incentive: a 25 per cent increase in eco-ENERGY Retrofit Homes grants. Natural Resources Minister Lisa Raitt has announced that $300 million is being added to the program, which is expected to underwrite as many as 200,000 more projects.

Since its inception in April 2007, ecoENERGY has paid out some $91 million to more than 85,000 homeowners for a broad range of projects, including improved insulation, windows and doors, and furnace upgrades.

“This is a great chance for Canadians to save money on home renovations that will cut their energy bills for years to come,” Raitt said, adding that the increase is available only until the end of March 2011.

Even better, homeowners who do take advantage of eco-ENERGY grants of up to $5,000 also could qualify for the new federal Home Renovation Tax Credit of up to $1,350. Some provinces and territories offer complementary incentives.

Retrofit proposals must be assessed by certified evaluators and that there is a review after renovations are done. Links to details on the application process and the types of retrofits that qualify can be found at eco-ENERGY Retrofit Homes or by calling 1-800-622-6232.