Better Homes Ottawa – Loan Program will help Ottawa homeowners make energy efficiency improvements

It’s now easier and more affordable for Ottawa residents to pay for energy improvements to their homes after today’s launch of the City’s Better Homes Ottawa – Loan Program (BHOLP).

November 15, 2021

The Better Homes Ottawa – Loan Program (BHOLP) allows Ottawa homeowners to apply for a zero-interest loan of up to $125,000 or 10% of the current value of the home to cover the cost of home energy improvements. It also gives homeowners guidance on how to decide which retrofits to implement based on cost-benefit and greenhouse gas reduction potential.

Eligible projects include:

  • Thermal envelope upgrades (basement/attic/exterior wall insulation, window/door replacements)
  • Mechanical systems (thermostats and controllers, air/ground source heat pumps, solar hot water systems)
  • Renewable energy (solar photovoltaic systems)
  • Electric vehicle chargers

The City is working with EnviroCentre, an Ottawa-based non-profit organization, to administer the program and connect homeowners with qualified contractors.

The BHOLP is part of the City’s Climate Change Master Plan. Funding is provided through the Community Efficiency Financing initiative, which is offered through the Green Municipal Fund and delivered by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and funded by the Government of Canada.

To learn more, including eligibility and application requirements, please visit betterhomesottawa.ca. 

Quotes

“The Better Homes Ottawa – Loan Program furthers the City’s commitments under the Climate Change Master Plan by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and creating jobs in the contractor, trades, and renovation sectors.” – Jim Watson, Mayor of the City of Ottawa

“By making energy efficiency improvements on their homes, residents will benefit from reduced energy bills, increased comfort and better indoor air quality. The Better Homes Ottawa – Loan Program will make it easier for residents to make these improvements and transition Ottawa into a clean, renewable and resilient city.” – Scott Moffatt, Chair of the City’s Standing Committee on Environmental Protection, Water and Waste Management