The government of Canada has launched a new program that offers Canadians grants of up to $5,000 to pay for energy-saving home upgrades.
The Greener Homes Grant
What is it?
The Greener Homes Grant is a $2.6 billion program that has been put in place to help Canadians make energy-saving upgrades to their homes. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Natural Resources Minister Seamus O’Regan announced a plan to help homeowners install solar panels, upgrade heaters, and replace windows and doors.
“Whether replacing a drafty window, adding insulation, or making upgrades ahead of a tough Canadian winter, today’s investment will help Canadians make their homes more comfortable and life more affordable. Improving the energy efficiency of our homes not only cuts down on pollution, [but] it also creates new jobs, economic growth, and a cleaner future for everyone.”
– Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
The federal government aims to make up to 700,000 homes more energy efficient within seven years. Ideally, this green initiative will limit greenhouse gas emissions, lower Canadian’s energy bills, and make houses warmer in the winter.
The Greener Homes Grant will not only benefit the environment but propel the economy. This initiative is expected to create over 110,000 jobs in construction, technology, manufacturing, and sales, to name a few. While making life more affordable through limited electrical costs, new opportunities for individuals within communities of all prospects and sizes will be provided.
The Canadian government wants to meet the climate goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. As energy inefficient buildings make up for about 18% of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions, this initiative will upgrade Canadian homes to be emission fighting machines.
How Does it Work?
The $5,000 grant per household will go towards covering the fees of the retrofit. Should Canadians choose to participate in this program, the first step would be to fill out an online application so that a certified advisor can complete an energy evaluation of the applicant’s home. The energy-saving measures eligible to the home will determine the amount of grant money homeowners receive.
If the homeowner chooses to proceed with the green adjustments, a licensed contractor will conduct the retrofits. After the changes are inspected, the homeowner will receive a reimbursement from the government.
Time to Go Green?
The modern-day lifestyle of Canadian’s greatly impacts the health of the earth. With that in mind, how can this program minimize homeowner’s carbon footprints?
Renewable Energy Sources
Renewable energy derives power directly from natural sources such as solar, wind, biomass, hydropower, and many more. Of these sources of energy, solar technology has become an increasingly popular way to power homes and devices.
Solar Roofs
Solar technologies are a great way to make homes more environmentally friendly. Homes that utilize solar power curb emissions and reduce the negative impact they have on the climate. Since the sun is the main source of energy for all living things on earth, why not use it to power a home?
Solar roofs are a great option for homes that are not located on the traditional energy grid. Rather than burn fossil fuels, solar powered homes create a green electric grid. Furthermore, the sun is a more resilient and reliable form of energy. This is because it’s replenished at a rate that is equal to or faster than the rate at which it is consumed.
The installation of solar roofs can transform houses to utilize clean sources of power, decrease energy consumption, and cut down energy costs. While it sounds like a no-brainer, it’s important that homeowners hire professional help to install solar panels. Improper installation can cause inadvertent damage to the roof and lead to expensive fixes later on. Professional solar roofers, such as those at Taves Roofing, have years of experience and fine-tuned skills. Resulting in a safe, efficient, and proper instalment of solar roofs.
What’s Next?
Households have a major impact on the environment. However, now with the Greener Homes Grant, homeowners can make a lasting, positive difference. With the help of Taves Roofing, homeowners can minimize their emissions and save money long-term. All through the use of solar technologies. For professional installation of a solar roof, reach out to Taves Energy to receive a free estimate today.