Toronto 
The Ontario government has announced a $10.9 billion, 12-year investment in energy efficiency initiatives, marking the largest such program in Canadian history. Among the key measures is the launch of the Home Renovation Savings Program, which aims to help homeowners and small businesses lower energy costs through rebates on energy-efficient upgrades.
The program will officially launch on January 28, 2025, providing rebates of up to 30% for various home energy improvements. Eligible upgrades include:
- Windows and doors: Replace outdated fixtures with energy-efficient models.
- Insulation and air sealing: Improve home thermal efficiency.
- Smart thermostats: Optimize heating and cooling to reduce energy use.
- Heat pumps: Transition to efficient heating and cooling systems.
- Rooftop solar panels and battery storage: Generate and store renewable energy.
Later in 2025, the program will expand to include energy-efficient appliances such as refrigerators and freezers.
Per the news release, the Affordable Energy Act, enacted on December 4, 2024, broadens eligibility for these programs. Unlike previous policies, rebates are now available to homeowners using propane or oil for heating, not just those with electric heating systems.
Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Electrification, emphasized the importance of these measures in response to rising energy demands. “These initiatives will save families and businesses money while enhancing energy efficiency,” Lecce said.
Homeowners can pre-register for the new program starting now on saveonenergy.ca. According to the website, homeowners can save with flexible options for single or bundled upgrades. A home energy assessment, offering $600 back, can be combined with upgrades like insulation (up to $8,900), windows and doors ($100 each), air sealing (up to $250), heat pump water heaters ($500), cold climate air source heat pumps (up to $7,500), ground source heat pumps (up to $12,000), smart thermostats ($75), and solar panels with battery storage (up to $10,000).
Ontario is also expanding its energy efficiency initiatives with a targeted Peak Perks program for small businesses, offering $75 for enrollment and $20 annually for each eligible smart thermostat linked to air conditioning or heat pumps. Alongside this, 12 Save on Energy programs, including the Retrofit Program, will continue to benefit households, businesses, municipalities, agriculture, industry, and First Nations communities.
Ontario says the $10.9 billion investment aims to reduce peak demand by 3,000 MW by 2036. This is equivalent to removing three million homes from the grid and generating $23.1 billion in electricity system benefits, saving ratepayers $12.2 billion in avoided generation costs.
While the Home Renovation Savings Program will launch later this month, other energy efficiency programs will already be available.
