Expanded program will help more homeowners save money and create new jobs

WATERLOO – Peter Braid, MP for Kitchener-Waterloo is encouraging residents to take advantage of the Conservative government’s expanded ecoENERGY Retrofit – Homes program. Announced last week, the new investment offers Canadians an additional $300 million in energy-efficient home improvement grants.

“With this additional funding, even more families in Kitchener-Waterloo will be able to retrofit their homes and make them more energy efficient,” said Braid.  “Upgrades will reduce energy consumption, and homeowners will save money on heating and energy costs for years to come.  At the same time, reduced emissions will help our environment.”

The ecoENERGY Retrofit — Homes program provides homeowners with grants of up to $5,000 to offset the cost of making energy-efficiency improvements. Grants apply to a range of measures that reduce energy consumption and contribute to a healthy environment, from increasing insulation to upgrading a furnace. To be eligible for a grant, a home must first undergo an energy evaluation by a certified energy advisor.

Effective April 1st, Canadians who complete approved energy-efficiency renovations on their home will be eligible to receive a 25% larger grant to help cover their expenses. For example, Canadians who upgrade to a high-efficiency gas furnace will be eligible to receive a $625 grant; up from $500, the maximum they would have received before.  

“This is another example of our government’s Economic Action Plan at work in our community,” said Braid.  “As more people retrofit their homes, they will be generating economic activity, creating jobs, and stimulating businesses in Kitchener-Waterloo.”

Funds are available for a limited time (until March 31, 2011) on a first-come, first-served basis. Homeowners are encouraged to apply early.

To learn more about the program, please visit www.ecoaction.gc.ca/homes or call 1-800-O-CANADA.

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