With the cost of living climbing and recent heatwaves serving as a sign of the times, staying cool in the summer and warm in the winter is a growing concern for many households in Peterborough and the Kawarthas.
Families already stretching their budgets have the option of upgrading an inefficient furnace or a drafty attic to lower costs, but first, they need the funds to make those upgrades.
The good news is that several programs address this need, with some available at no cost to the homeowner.
“Many homes across Peterborough and the Kawarthas predate today’s building standards, leaving families with higher bills and less comfort,” says Aaron Nunes, outreach lead for energy programs at EnviroCentre, a non-profit organization that delivers energy affordability programs in this region, as well as other areas across the province.
“These programs make sure residents can access the upgrades needed for a comfortable, energy-efficient home.”
Depending on income and the type of energy currently used in the home, residents may qualify for multiple incentives.
Energy Affordability Program
For electricity customers, the Energy Affordability Program from Save on Energy offers upgrades to eligible households including homeowners, renters, and residents of social housing. Eligibility is based on household income and the number of people living in the home.
Participants may receive a free in-home energy assessment conducted by an energy expert, followed by upgrades like new appliances and insulation. Households that currently heat with electricity may be eligible for a high-efficiency heat pump.
Moderate-income participants may receive a customized energy saving kit, which could include items such as energy-efficient LED lighting, timers, and a clothesline, all designed for self-installation.
For a limited time, households with oil heating may also qualify to receive a heat pump, thanks to funding from Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) through its Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program. This switch can cut heating costs by up to 50 per cent and improve comfort year-round, so eligible households are encouraged to apply now while this offer is available.
Home Winterproofing Program
For natural gas customers, the Home Winterproofing Program from Enbridge Gas provides income-eligible households with upgraded insulation and air sealing. These upgrades can help households save up to 30 per cent on heating costs.
There are also other programs available to support home energy efficiency, which do not depend on household income. Better Homes Peterborough provides financing and incentives for energy efficiency upgrades to City of Peterborough homeowners in partnership with GreenUP, whose energy advisors provide coaching services to program participants.
Financing for upgrades through this program can be accessed through the municipal local improvement charge and paid back over a 15-year period via a homeowner’s property tax bill, or via a shorter-term loan through Kawartha Financial Services.
The Home Renovation Savings Program also offers rebates to homeowners across Ontario for upgrades including insulation, windows, heat pumps, solar systems, and batteries.
For thousands of households in the region, these programs provide access to upgrades that improve energy efficiency, cut costs, and make homes more comfortable. Warmer, drier, better-ventilated homes also support better health outcomes for residents, while contributing to Peterborough and the Kawarthas’ broader climate and affordability goals.
Reach out to GreenUP to learn more about available energy-efficiency upgrades and access coaching services at greenup.on.ca/home-energy/, energy@greenup.on.ca, or 705-536-9943.
GreenUP and Better Homes Peterborough are currently hosting a series of free, informal monthly online information sessions with local experts designed to answer home energy-related questions. The next Home Energy Hour takes place Thursday, August 27 from 12 to 1 p.m. Learn more and register at greenup.on.ca/event/home-energy-hour/.
