ENERGY EFFICIENCY GRANTS

Registration Closed for Federal Grant Program

After reaching our goal of 250,000 registrations, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) stopped accepting new registrations into the federal grant program on January 28, 2012. The deadline to complete work remains March 31, 2012, however the deadline to obtain a post-retrofit evaluation for work completed by March 31, 2012, is now June 30, 2012.

For more information, read our blog post on the Closed Federal Grant Program

CHBA Applauds New Federal Energy Efficiency Investment

OTTAWA, September 7, 2011 -- The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) applauds today’s announcement by the Honourable Joe Oliver, Minister of Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), that the federal government will be investing $78 million in a range of new and expanded energy efficiency initiatives over the next two years.

“Many of these investments will assist new home builders and renovators in providing Canadians with increased home energy efficiency, saving them money and helping protect our environment,” Ron Olsen, CHBA’s Acting President, said.

“It is significant that the Minister’s announced funding includes support for the R-2000 initiative and ENERGY STAR for New Homes, which have made Canada a world-leader in energy efficient housing,” Olsen said.

“The CHBA is particularly pleased that this initiative includes increased support for the EnerGuide Rating System (ERS), which provides Canadian homeowners with a reliable way to measure their home’s energy performance,” Olsen added. “Whether you are buying a new home, or renovating an existing one, getting an ERS assessment is the best first step to improving a home’s energy efficiency.”

The CHBA is also pleased that NRCan will be increasing its support for efficiency standards for new equipment used in homes, and in promoting labeling programs such as ENERGY STAR, that help consumers select more energy efficient models.

“The federal government plays a key role in helping Canadians reduce energy use in their homes,” Olsen said. “Today’s announcement by Minister Oliver will help to strengthen this important role.”

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association is the voice of the residential construction industry in Canada, representing more than 8,000 member firms across the country. Membership comprises new home builders, renovators, developers, trade contractors building material manufacturers and suppliers, lenders and other professionals in the housing sector.

Further Information:
John Kenward, (613) 230-3060