Many homeowners are making efficiency a priority when undertaking home renovation projects. Improved efficiency can make a renovation more affordable in the long term – and reduce your household environmental impact.
Many incentives and programs exist to help plan and fund your eco-friendly renovation. From tax rebates to a refrigerator exchange program, these tools are accessible to you.
R-2000 Certification
The voluntary R-2000 construction standards are a set of national technical requirements in energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and environmental responsibility. R-2000 certification is a prerequisite for the CMHC Mortgage Loan Insurance Refund. Read More…
BC Hydro Fridge Buy-Back Program
Refrigerators between 10 and 24 cubic feet (in working condition) are picked up by BC Hydro, who pays the homeowner $30. Read more…
ecoENERGY Rebate
The Government of Canada’s ecoENERGY grant program offers grants for home improvements that lower energy costs, improve comfort and reduce impacts on the environment. Read more...
LiveSmart BC Efficiency Incentive Program
Have a home energy assessment from a certified energy advisor and qualify for rebates on energy-efficient home improvements. Read more...
Medical Expense Tax Credit
The Government of Canada’s Medical Expense Tax Credit can be applied to renovations and alterations to a building made to that significantly improve mobility for a mobility-challenged person. Read more…
Mortgage Loan Insurance Refund
The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation offers a mortgage loan insurance premium refund and extended amortization period. This is provided without surcharge to homeowners who use CMHC insured financing to purchase an energy-efficient home or make energy-saving renovations. Read more…
SolarBC Rebate
Significant discounts on solar hot water systems are facilitated by SolarBC, an agency funded by the provincial and federal governments. Read more…
Energy Auditors
To learn more about how to make your home more energy efficient and about available rebate programs for energy upgrades, contact one of the following energy audit comapanies:
AmeriSpec of Canada
1-250-339-6977
www.amerispec.ca/comox
Building Insight Technologies
1-877-732-9888
www.homeperformance.com
City Green
1-866-387-9995
1-250-381-9995
www.citygreen.ca
Island Green Auditech and Inspections
1-250-337-4070
eco@islandgreen.ca
www.islandgreen.ca
Easy Renovation Tips
Small changes will also reduce your environmental footprint. Consider some of the following simple measures that can improve the quality of your home:
• Replace incandescent light bulbs with energy- efficient compact fluorescents
• Replace old caulking and weather stripping
• Install a programmable thermostat
• Install low-flow showerheads
• Turn down your water heater to 120ºF/49ºC
• Plant trees and shrubs to protect your home from the wind and sun