THUNDER BAY — Some homeowners who planned to cash in on provincial rebates for energy upgrades may face disappointment, but EcoSuperior says others will still be able to benefit from the program.
Subsidies for upgrades such as new furnaces, insulation, doors and windows were decreased as of Sept. 1, and electrically-heated homes will cease being eligible after Sept. 30.
Rebates for appliances will also cease that day.
As of Oct. 31, homes heated by wood, oil or propane will no longer qualify.
EcoSuperior, a not-for-profit organization that provides environmental programs, says the reduced rebates will continue to be available in neighbourhoods serviced by natural gas.
"This change to the program means most rural residents will no longer be able to participate in the program," said EcoSuperior executive-director Ellen Mortfield.
Mortfield noted that customers who have already completed their initial energy assessment and are in the midst of completing the work within the required 120 days will still receive the rebates in effect at the time of their first appointment.
EcoSuperior, a delivery agent for a utility-led rebate program, employs two certified energy advisors who provide the home energy assessment service required to qualify.
Mortfield said an assessment is still a worthwhile program for anyone wishing to improve their comfort and their heating costs.
"The assessment service shows you exactly where the house is costing you money, and provides recommendations on the best ways to fix it."
The next cost for the service is $50, as assessment fees for both the 'before' and 'after' home visits are also rebated.
Oil, wood or propane-heated homes can still book the service before Oct. 31 and access rebates for renovations that must be completed within 120 days.
Current rebate amounts are up to $1,000 for a furnace, $80 for windows and doors, up to $1,750 for insulation and up to $500 for a water heater.
Details of restrictions can be found on the EcoSuperior website.
EcoSuperior provided the following summary of the rebate program changes:
After Sept. 30th
- Electrically heated homes will no longer be eligible.
- No more rebates for appliances
+ As long as electric customers have completed the first audit before Sept. 30 and complete the qualifying renovations along with their second audit within 120 days (no extensions or exceptions), they will receive their rebate at the original amounts.
After Oct. 31st
- Oil, Wood and Propane heated homes will no longer be eligible. Only Union Gas Customers will be eligible.
- Rebate amounts will be reduced:
- Furnace/ Boiler – $750 (max amount)
- Windows & Doors – $40 per (max amount)
- Water Heater – $200 (max amount)
- Insulation – $1,500 (max amount)
As long as Oil, Wood and Propane customers have completed the first audit before October 31, 2018 and complete the qualifying renovations along with their second audit within 120 days ( no extensions or exceptions), they will receive their rebate at the original amounts.
