How to Maximize Ontario’s Energy Rebates in 2018
Update: Effective June 19, 2018, all GreenON programs are closed. However, Ontario homeowners can still benefit from rebates under another program called Save on Energy. Check out our blog on the Save on Energy rebates.
There seems to be a never-ending supply of energy rebates in Ontario. The latest Ontario energy rebates come to us from GreenON, a not-for-profit agency that reinvests the proceeds from Ontario’s carbon market to promote cleaner energy technology.
These rebates can add up to a lot of money…if you qualify.
The devil is always in the details.
About the Ontario Energy Rebates Available in 2018
Update: Effective June 19, 2018, all GreenON programs are closed.
The latest round of Ontario energy rebates in 2018 emphasizes heat pump installation. What is a heat pump? Essentially, a heat pump is an air conditioner that works in reverse. It takes heat out of the outside air (yes, even at -20ºC) and brings it into your home.
A heat pump reduces fuel use, saving money and reducing emissions. However, most heat pumps can’t provide enough heat in our climate to fully heat your home. They require a back-up heating appliance such as a furnace.
Here’s the catch: if you attach a heat pump to a furnace that uses natural gas (rather than electricity, propane or oil), you will not be eligible for a rebate. This makes the rebate ineffective for most homeowners in the GTA. From a cost perspective, we don’t advise electric furnace installation in Toronto and the surrounding cities.
Who Will Most Benefit from the 2018 Energy Rebates?
Before you pursue rebates for heat pump installation, I encourage you to read the fine print. The ads promoting rebates in the thousands of dollars might not be giving you the full story.
The majority of people who will benefit will be rural Ontarians, or those with cottages. There are some rebates available for high efficiency furnace installation or air conditioner replacement, but they are relatively small. Regardless, it’s still worth applying if you need new equipment.
Our equipment partner, Lennox, also has some great furnace and air conditioner rebates right now. Be sure to ask about those.
A Final Word on the 2018 Energy Rebates
I have always taken the position that a homeowner should make an informed decision as to which HVAC solution best meets their current and future comfort needs. At AtlasCare we objectively review these goals with customers, offer the best advice, and help put that solution in your home.
We will always take rebates into account, but we advise against letting them be the sole driver of your decision.
Learn More
Green Ontario Fund
Rebates and Financing Options for Lennox Home Comfort Systems
Cost of Furnace Installation in Toronto and the GTA
Image: Jason Kolenda