Taking advantage of available energy programs in New Brunswick and improving your home’s energy efficiency is one of the smartest investments you can make. Not only can it lower your monthly utility bills, but it also enhances comfort and contributes to a healthier environment by reducing energy waste. Thankfully, in New Brunswick and across Canada, several programs are available to help homeowners and builders achieve these goals.
Below, we break down the key programs, how they work, the potential savings, and the benefits they offer to both consumers and the environment.
*Please note–these energy programs in New Brunswick were active at the time of writing this blog post, but are subject to change without notice.
1. Total Home Energy Savings Program (THESP)
The THESP is designed for New Brunswick homeowners looking to reduce their energy consumption through home upgrades.
Learn more about the Total Home Energy Savings Program
Steps Involved:
- Registration and Initial Evaluation: Homeowners register online or by calling 1-800-663-6272 to schedule a Home Energy Evaluation with a Certified Energy Advisor.
- Review Report: Receive a detailed report highlighting recommended energy-saving upgrades.
- Implement Upgrades: Complete chosen upgrades within nine months, ensuring all receipts are retained.
- Final Inspection: A post-upgrade evaluation verifies the improvements and provides an updated EnerGuide rating.
- Receive Rebates: Submit necessary documentation to receive financial incentives.
Potential Savings:
- Financial Incentives: Rebates are available for various upgrades, including insulation, heating systems, windows, and doors.
- Long-term Savings: Enhanced energy efficiency can lead to significant reductions in monthly utility bills.
Benefits:
- Consumer: Improved home comfort, increased property value, and reduced energy costs.
- Environmental: Lower energy consumption reduces greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to environmental conservation.
2. New Home Energy Savings Program (NHESP)
This program assists individuals building new homes in New Brunswick to incorporate energy-efficient designs from the outset.
Learn more about the New Home Energy Savings Program
Steps Involved:
- Pre-Construction Registration: Register online before applying for a building permit to integrate energy efficiency into the design phase.
- Plan Evaluation: A Certified Energy Advisor models the building plans to recommend efficiency measures.
- Construction: Build the home according to the recommended energy-efficient specifications.
- On-Site Evaluation: Post-construction, an evaluation confirms the home’s energy performance.
- Receive Rebates: Eligible participants receive financial incentives based on the achieved energy efficiency level.
Potential Savings:
- Construction Rebates: Incentives of up to $10,000 are available for incorporating energy-efficient features.
- Mortgage Insurance Refunds: Achieving certain efficiency standards may qualify homeowners for a 25% refund on mortgage insurance premiums through programs like CMHC Eco Plus.
Benefits:
- Consumer: Lower energy bills, enhanced indoor comfort, and potential mortgage insurance savings (see program #5).
- Environmental: Energy-efficient homes contribute to reduced environmental impact from the outset.
3. Enhanced Energy Savings Program (EESP)
Designed to assist New Brunswick homeowners with a combined annual household income under $70,000, the EESP offers free energy efficiency upgrades.
Learn more about the Enhanced Energy Savings Program
Steps Involved:
- Registration: Apply online and submit the latest Notice of Assessment to verify income eligibility.
- Pre-Upgrade Evaluation: An Energy Advisor assesses the home to identify necessary upgrades.
- Implementation of Upgrades: Approved contractors perform the recommended upgrades at no cost to the homeowner.
- Post-Upgrade Evaluation: A follow-up assessment ensures the effectiveness of the improvements.
Potential Savings:
- Cost-Free Upgrades: Homeowners receive free improvements such as insulation, ventilation enhancements, and installation of energy-efficient heating systems.
- Reduced Energy Bills: Enhanced home efficiency leads to lower monthly energy expenses.
Benefits:
- Consumer: Access to free upgrades improves home comfort and reduces financial strain from energy costs.
- Environmental: Decreased energy usage contributes to environmental sustainability.
4. Canada Greener Homes Loan
A federal initiative providing interest-free loans to homeowners across Canada for energy-efficient retrofits.
Learn more about the Canada Greener Homes Loan
Steps Involved:
- Pre-Retrofit Evaluation: Obtain an energy assessment to identify eligible retrofits.
- Loan Application: Apply for the loan before commencing any retrofit work.
- Implementation: Complete the approved retrofits as outlined in the energy advisor’s recommendations.
- Post-Retrofit Evaluation: A follow-up assessment verifies the successful implementation of the retrofits.
Loan Details:
- Amount: Up to $40,000, interest-free.
- Repayment Term: 10 years.
Benefits:
- Consumer: Facilitates significant energy-efficient home improvements without the burden of interest, leading to long-term energy savings.
- Environmental: Supports nationwide efforts to reduce residential energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
5. CMHC Eco Plus
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers a partial premium refund to homeowners with energy-efficient homes insured through CMHC.
Learn more about CMHC Eco Plus
Steps Involved:
- Energy Efficiency Certification: Ensure the home meets specified energy efficiency standards, typically verified through an EnerGuide evaluation.
- Application Submission: Apply for the refund within 24 months of the closing date of the mortgage loan.
Potential Savings:
- Premium Refund: Eligible homeowners can receive a 25% refund on their mortgage insurance premium.
6. Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program (OHPA)
The OHPA program helps New Brunswick homeowners transition from oil-based heating to energy-efficient heat pumps by providing financial assistance, making the switch more affordable.
Learn more about the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program
Steps Involved:
- Determine Eligibility: Households with an annual income of $70,000 or less may qualify for free upgrades. Those above this threshold can apply for up to $15,000 in advance funding.
- Register for the Program: Apply online and submit required documents, including proof of income and primary residence.
- Schedule a Home Energy Evaluation: A Certified Energy Advisor assesses the home and recommends suitable upgrades.
- Obtain Quotes and Approvals: Participants in the Total Home Energy Savings Program must provide quotes for heat pump installation.
- Receive Advance Payment (if applicable): Eligible applicants may receive an advance of up to $15,000 for installation costs.
- Complete Installation: Hire an approved contractor to install the heat pump system.
- Final Energy Evaluation: An assessment verifies the efficiency improvements after installation.
- Receive Rebates: Submit final paperwork to access any additional rebates or incentives.
Potential Savings:
- Lower Heating Costs: Heat pumps are more energy-efficient than oil-based systems.
- Reduced Maintenance Expenses: Modern heat pumps require less upkeep than traditional oil furnaces.
- Long-Term Utility Savings: Improved efficiency leads to lower monthly energy bills.
Benefits:
- Consumer: Provides year-round comfort with heating and cooling, enhances property value, and reduces heating costs.
- Environmental: Reduces reliance on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to a greener future.
How to Make Homes More Efficient
How to Make an Existing Home More Energy-Efficient
If you own an existing home, there are several effective ways to boost its energy efficiency and lower energy costs:
- Improve Insulation: Adding or upgrading insulation in attics, walls, and basements helps retain heat in the winter and keep cool air inside during the summer.
- Upgrade Windows and Doors: Installing ENERGY STAR®-rated windows and doors can reduce drafts and improve energy retention.
- Switch to Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling: Heat pumps, high-efficiency furnaces, and programmable thermostats can greatly reduce energy consumption.
- Seal Air Leaks: Identifying and sealing gaps around windows, doors, and ductwork prevents energy loss and improves overall efficiency.
- Install LED Lighting: Replacing incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lighting reduces energy consumption and lowers electricity bills.
- Use Smart Home Technology: Smart thermostats, energy-efficient appliances, and home energy monitoring systems help optimize energy usage.
How to Build an Energy-Efficient New Home
When building a new home, energy efficiency can be designed into the structure from the start. Here are some key considerations:
- Passive Solar Design: Positioning windows and choosing materials that optimize natural light and heat can reduce energy reliance.
- High-Performance Insulation: Using high-quality insulation materials and air sealing techniques ensures minimal energy loss.
- Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors: Triple-pane or gas-filled windows provide better insulation and reduce heat transfer.
- Efficient Heating and Cooling Systems: Installing air-source or ground-source heat pumps can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.
- Solar Panels and Renewable Energy: Designing the home to accommodate solar panels or other renewable energy sources can help offset energy consumption.
- Water-Saving Fixtures: Low-flow toilets, faucets, and energy-efficient water heaters reduce water and energy use.
Final Thoughts
Investing in energy efficiency is a win-win for homeowners and the environment. These energy programs in New Brunswick make it easier to upgrade your home, reduce energy costs, and lessen your carbon footprint. Whether you’re building a new home, looking for financial assistance with upgrades, or just exploring ways to make your home more energy-efficient, there’s a program to suit your needs.
If you’re interested in learning more about these programs or need guidance on the application process, reach out to the relevant program administrators—or speak with a trusted REALTOR® who can help you navigate your options.
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