January 13, 2021
Edmonton homeowners now have more ways to save money, support our local economy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The new Home Energy Retrofit Accelerator (HERA), a residential energy efficiency incentive program, provides rebates to homeowners for a variety of home improvements.
"The City of Edmonton remains committed to making Edmonton a healthier and environmentally friendly place to live today and into the future,” said Mayor Don Iveson. “The Home Energy Retrofit Accelerator incentive program does just that by helping homeowners invest in energy efficiency improvements that allow them to benefit from reduced energy bills while helping build a low-carbon city.”
Rebates are available for a number of energy efficient retrofits such as improvements to insulation, air sealing, windows, water heating and space heating with bonuses available for multiple renovations. While the rebate amount for each homeowner will depend on the energy efficient retrofits they choose, an average rebate is estimated to be $1,500 per home. More than 400 homeowners are expected to take advantage of the incentive program each year.
Detached homes, semi-detached homes, townhomes and mobile homes on permanent foundations must be located within city limits and have equipment installed from a
list of eligible products. After a homeowner receives an EnerGuide home energy evaluation and enrolls in the program, they will have up to 18 months to complete their energy efficiency upgrades and apply for eligible rebates.
HERA is a three-year pilot program with a budget of $600,000 per year. The previous residential energy efficiency program in Edmonton resulted in more than $15 million in local economic activity and more than 41,000 tonnes of carbon reductions in one year.
“CHBA-ER members, including renovators, trades, manufacturers and suppliers, have the expertise and the willingness to help homeowners explore the benefits of this new program,” said Sydney Bond, President of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Edmonton Region. “HERA will not only help bolster interest and participation in energy efficiency but will also contribute to Edmonton’s economic recovery by supporting job stability for Edmontonians.”
