THUNDER BAY -- Depending on income levels, homeowners and tenants across the province may qualify for free upgrades to make their residences more energy-efficient.
The government this week launched its new Affordability Fund.
The $100 million fund supports the installation of energy-saving LED light bulbs, power bars, improved insulation and energy-efficient refrigerators and air conditioners.
The program is designed for people who don't already qualify for low-income conservation programs and who are unable to undertake energy efficiency improvements without support.
Savings will vary, depending on the level of support.
The government says a home energy kit with two LED bulbs and a power bar can cut a home energy bill by about $10 a year, whereas an energy-efficient fridge can save about $90 a year.
Householders can visit the Affordability Fund website to determine which of three levels of support they qualify for, based on their net household income and average energy bill.
- Level 1 applicants will receive a Home Energy Kit which can be self-installed
- Level 2 applicants will receive an in-home visit from an energy advisor and upgrades that may include appliances
- Level 3 applicants with electrically-heated homes will receive an in-home visit and upgrades that may include insulation or an energy-efficient heat pump
The program is the latest in a series of moves by the Liberal government aimed at offsetting high energy costs and opposition party criticism of the government's management of the issue.
