As of April 1, Homeowners across Canada can begin work to qualify for the ecoENERGY Retrofit Grant. The EcoENERGY grant replaced the Federal EnerGuide for Homes program.

Homeowners interested in qualifying for this new government energy initiative should begin immediately by having the home assessed by a qualified ecoENERGY adviser. The ecoENERGY advisor will determine your current home energy rating. This evaluation will cost approximately $400. However, the cost will be offset in the long run. Savings experienced due to a decrease in energy usage will continue to pay years to come. A portion of the cost to upgrade can be offset also by the grant, which can run up to $5000 awarded.

After a homeowner has the evaluation completed, they have eighteen months to implement any upgrades recommended. The recommended upgrades can be anything from plugging drafty doors to installation of a new cooling system.

The amount of the grant awarded is based on the type upgrade. Amounts awarded can be up to $5000. For example, installing an Energy Star window will qualify the homeowner for a $30 grant. Replacing a poorly running energy-draining furnace to one of the high efficiency new gas models on the market will qualify the homeowner for a $500 grant.

Homeowners interested in qualifying for the ecoENERGY Retrofit Grant should contact the ecoENERGY office by calling (800) 622-6232 or visit the website at www.ecoaction.gc.ca.