The Ontario government has announced the launch of a series of new energy-saving initiatives, including the “Home Renovation Savings Program,” aimed at helping families and businesses reduce energy costs. This initiative represents the largest energy efficiency investment in the province’s history, with a commitment of $10.9 billion over the next 12 years to various energy-saving projects.
On January 17, Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Electrification, along with MPP Logan Kanapathi and MPP Daisy Wai, held a media briefing to provide a detailed overview of the project’s implementation. The event was designed to offer the public and media firsthand insights into the policy and showcase the government’s efforts to help families and businesses lower energy expenses.
Minister Lecce highlighted the specifics of the Home Renovation Savings Program, stating, “With increasing electricity demand, we are creating more opportunities for families and small businesses to save energy and money. This is part of Canada’s largest energy efficiency initiative. Through the Home Renovation Savings Program, we will provide families with up to 30% rebates on costs for energy-efficient upgrades, including new windows, doors, insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, and battery storage systems.”
The program, set to officially launch on January 28, 2025, will allow eligible families to register in advance. It will cover up to 30% of costs for energy-efficient home renovations, such as upgrading windows, doors, insulation, air sealing, smart thermostats, heat pumps, and rooftop solar panels with storage systems. By late 2025, the program will also extend to high-efficiency appliances, such as refrigerators and freezers.
The Affordable Energy Act, effective December 4, 2024, ensures the rebate program is not limited to electrically heated homes but also includes homes using propane and oil heating, significantly expanding the program’s reach. Minister Lecce emphasized, “Ontario’s new Home Renovation Savings Program not only makes energy-efficient upgrades more accessible and affordable but also supports the province’s sustainable energy future.”
The Ontario government will also expand the existing Peak Perks Program to provide targeted support for small businesses, including convenience stores and restaurants. Participants will receive a $75 registration incentive per smart thermostat and an annual $20 rebate per eligible device. Additionally, 12 Save on Energy programs will continue to support low-income households, businesses, agriculture, and Indigenous communities.
MPP Logan Kanapathi highlighted the program’s focus on diverse cultural communities, stating, “As someone serving multicultural communities, I am thrilled to see this program include low-income families and diverse communities. This will encourage broader participation in energy-saving and environmental initiatives.” He also urged residents to stay informed about registration details and apply early for rebates.
According to projections, these energy-saving programs will reduce Ontario’s peak electricity demand by 3,000 megawatts by 2036, equivalent to the power needs of 3 million homes. The $10.9 billion investment is expected to yield $23.1 billion in electricity system benefits and save $12.2 billion in electricity infrastructure costs.
“This new 12-year energy framework places the needs of families and businesses at the heart of Ontario’s energy strategy. By expanding energy-saving programs, we are not only helping small businesses thrive but also reducing costs for families, easing the strain on the electricity grid, and laying a solid foundation for Ontario’s energy future,” Minister Lecce said.
The plan marks a significant step in meeting the growing demand for electricity in Ontario. The government is implementing a series of strategies, including integrated energy planning, advancing nuclear energy projects, building new transmission infrastructure, and launching the largest clean energy procurement in Ontario’s history.
During the media briefing, journalists raised questions about rebate application procedures and the sustainability of electricity demand. The three officials addressed these concerns and assured attendees that the government website and multilingual support services would provide clear and accessible guidance to the community, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
Concluding the event, Minister Lecce reaffirmed the government’s commitment to energy-saving initiatives: “Our goal is not just to help families and businesses save costs but to build a cleaner, more sustainable Ontario. This program is a critical step toward achieving that goal, and we look forward to collaborating with all sectors to create a brighter future.”
Ontario’s energy efficiency investment not only supports families and businesses across the province but also promotes the adoption of clean energy technologies, underscoring the government’s steadfast commitment to sustainability and laying the groundwork for a robust energy future.
