You Can Reduce Your Energy Costs and Save Money
I know this is true because we’ve done it ourselves. While the Provincial Home Energy Rebate Program is over, the Federal government revived the ecoEnergy program in June.
It begins with an Energy Audit to identify where your home loses energy. In this regard, the Province of Ontario is still offering to pay 50% of the cost of the Audit, up to $150. The Home Energy Audit will give you a detailed outline of your energy use that will include:
– A basement to attic assessment of your home’s insulation, heating and cooling systems, and other energy uses
– A “blower door” test to detect air leaks and drafts
– A personalized Energy Efficient Evaluation Report and recommendations
The next step is to consider making improvements and to access in some cases the grants available through the Federal ecoENERGY Retrofit program. From now until March 31, 2012, homeowners are eligible to receive grants of up to $5,000 to make their homes more energy-efficient.
There are two important changes to the program from when it was initially launched. First, there is a requirement for participants to register directly with the program before booking their evaluation with the Environment Network. Second, homeowners will now be required to provide receipts to their energy advisor at the time of the post-retrofit evaluation to confirm eligibility for the grant.
Locally in the Collingwood and Blue Mountain area, audits can be arranged through the Environment Network at a cost of $300.00 which is then entitled to the Provincial rebate. Click here to book an assessment with the Environment Network or you can phone 705-446-0551 or toll free 1-866-377-0551.
