Big news for Ontario homeowners: The Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate is BACK!
In early 2024, the popular Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+) program was suspended, leaving many homeowners unsure of how to proceed with energy-saving upgrades.
Fortunately, in July 2024, the program returned with a few adjustments aimed at continuing its mission to help Ontarians make their homes more energy-efficient and comfortable.
If you’re a homeowner in Ottawa looking to upgrade your insulation, here’s what you need to know about the HER+ program and how Panda Insulation can help you maximize your rebates.
What Is the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (HER+) Program?
The HER+ program, administered by Enbridge Gas and funded in part by the Government of Canada, offers financial rebates to homeowners across Ontario for making energy-efficient improvements. These upgrades can significantly reduce your home’s energy consumption, lower utility bills, and enhance your overall home comfort. One of the key improvements eligible for rebates is insulation.
Who Is Eligible for HER+ Rebates?
To qualify for HER+ rebates, homeowners must meet certain criteria:
- Own a detached, semi-detached, row townhouse, or mobile home in Ontario.
- Be an Enbridge Gas customer, or have been pre-approved if using another natural gas utility.
- Complete at least two eligible energy-efficient upgrades, one of which could be insulation.
- Hire a Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)-approved energy auditor to conduct a pre- and post-retrofit energy assessment.
Available Rebates for Insulation
The HER+ program offers generous rebates for various types of insulation, depending on where you upgrade. Here are the key insulation rebates available:
- Attic Insulation: Up to $1,500 for upgrading attic insulation.
- Basement or Crawl Space Insulation: Up to $3,500 for improving insulation in these often under-insulated areas.
- Exterior Wall Insulation: Up to $3,600 for increasing exterior wall insulation.
- Cathedral/Flat Roof Insulation: Up to $780
- Exposed Floor Insulation: Up to $300.
- Plus rebates for heat pumps, air sealing, windows, and more!
These rebates can make a significant difference when it comes to the overall cost of your insulation project. Additionally, investing in insulation can reduce your heating and cooling needs by up to 20%, further saving you money on energy bills.
What’s New in 2024?
With the return of HER+ in 2024, the overall structure of the program remains the same, but there are some new features aimed at simplifying the application process and encouraging more homeowners to participate. The main focus is still on helping you improve your home’s energy efficiency, but the rebate amounts and qualifying criteria for certain upgrades may have been adjusted slightly. Make sure to check the latest guidelines and speak with an energy auditor for the most up-to-date information.
Why Insulation Is the Smartest Upgrade
When it comes to energy efficiency, insulation is one of the most cost-effective and impactful upgrades you can make. Proper insulation helps your home retain heat in the winter and stay cool in the summer, significantly reducing the strain on your heating and cooling systems. By upgrading your insulation, you not only make your home more comfortable but also reduce your carbon footprint.
How Panda Insulation Can Help
At Panda Insulation, we’ve helped hundreds of Ottawa homeowners take advantage of rebates through the HER+ program. Our team is highly experienced in installing spray foam, batt, and blown-in insulation that qualifies for the highest available rebates.
Book a free, zero-obligation consultation with us today to find out how much you can save on your insulation project. We are also partnered with NRCan-approved energy auditors and can help coordinate a discounted energy audit to get you started. Don’t miss out on the chance to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient while reducing costs.
