The new Home Renovation Savings Program will launch on Jan. 28. Pictured: Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff. Photo Credit: Sam Oosterhoff/X.
Earlier this week, the Government of Ontario announced new energy efficiency programs. The government says that the large-scale initiatives, which are a component of a new 12-year $10.9 billion project, will include a Home Renovation Savings Program, and will assist citizens and organizations, both locally and provincially, to save more of their money.
“As the demand for electricity continues to rise, we are giving families and small businesses more ways to save money and energy as we launch the largest energy efficiency program in Canadian history,” shared Ontario Minister of Energy and Electrification Stephen Lecce.
“Ontario’s new Home Renovation Savings Program will put more money back into the residents of the province, covering up to thirty percent of the costs on energy efficiency products,” Lecce continued.
The Home Renovation Savings Program is slated for launch on Jan. 28, 2025. It will offer rebates as high as 30 per cent in support of homeowners who are pursuing energy-efficiency home upgrades, such as installing new doors and windows, heat pumps and smart thermostats, air sealing, rooftop solar panels and battery storage systems.
Lecce confirmed that the program will expand again later in the year, as the province will offer “rebates for energy-efficient appliances,” such as freezers and refrigerators, “to further reduce energy bills and demand on the grid.”
In addition to these objectives, the province is also expanding the Peaks Perks program, with a new program which will focus on helping small businesses. Eligible establishments will be provided with a $75 incentive after enrolling in the program, and $20 per year for each eligible smart thermostat that is connected to a heat pump unit, or a central air conditioning system.
The provincial government will also be continuing to invest in 12 Save on Energy programs, including a wide range of initiatives that are specifically targeted to assist First Nations communities, lower-income households, municipalities, and businesses, as well as Ontario agriculture.
Sam Oosterhoff, who serves as the Niagara West MPP and Associate Minister of Energy and Electrification, celebrated what the announcement means for the province, as well as the Niagara Region.
“Our government is helping families and small businesses save money on bills and renovations through smart investments in energy efficiency,” Oosterhoff told the Niagara Independent. “Unlike the previous Liberal government, which supports an expensive carbon tax, we’re delivering on programs that make life more affordable.”
“The best part? By conserving energy across the province, families and businesses will see lower energy costs for years to come.”
It has been projected that by the year 2036, the expansion of energy efficiency programs will reduce the provincial peak demand by 3,000 megawatts. Putting this statistic into perspective, it would be like removing three million homes from the grid.
It is also predicted that the $10.9 billion investment will create electricity system benefits of approximately $23.1 billion. This will save taxpayers about $12.2 billion in electrical system expenditures as it will not be necessary to build out a new generation.
“This is a win-win,” Oosterhoff shared. “Real savings for families and businesses today while building a cleaner, more affordable energy future for Ontario.”
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
