Replacing older windows with new energy-efficient ones can not only freshen up the look of your home but also save you money on your utilities by helping to keep warm air out in the summer and cold air out in the winter.

Insulating your home against outside air means that your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to heat or cool the air, using less energy and therefore saving you money on utilities. Not only that, but it also means your home will be using less greenhouse gas – and that is better for everyone.

Unfortunately, retrofitting your home with windows or any other energy-efficient improvement comes with its own cost. And windows can be one of the pricier retrofits.

Fortunately, there is government help for homeowners looking to update their homes and reduce their carbon footprint.  As part of the Canada Greener Homes Initiative Program, applications are currently open for the new Canada Greener Homes Loan.

What is the Canada Greener Homes Loan?

Homeowners can now apply for a 10-year interest-free loan of $5000 to $40,000 from the federal government to finance eligible “green” upgrades to their home as recommended by an approved energy advisor. There is a limit of one loan per homeowner and eligible property.

Who is eligible?

As of June 17, 2022, the program is open to eligible applicants applying to the Canada Greener Homes Grant (ranging from $125 to $5000) and active applicants who have had an EnerGuide evaluation but have not started their retrofit.

Starting August 31, 2022, the program will open to homeowners who have received the Canada Greener Homes Grant or have requested a post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation and wish to apply for additional eligible retrofits which they have not yet started.

Additional eligibility requirements:

  • You are eligible for the Canada Greener Homes Grant.
  • You are a Canadian homeowner applying for retrofit financing for your primary residence.
  • Your pre-retrofit evaluation was completed after April 1, 2020.
  • Your credit is in good standing.

Retrofits that are not eligible:

The loan may not be used for work that:

  • has already been started prior to your application
  • has not been recommended by an EnerGuide energy advisor
  • is not eligible for a Canada Greener Homes Grant
  • is not included in your application

How the Canada Greener Homes Initiative Program works

retrofit process

If you are considering new energy-efficient windows for your home, the first step is to apply through the Natural Resources Canada website.  Once your application has been approved, you will need to have a pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation done, which will give recommendations to make your home more energy efficient.  To be eligible for the Canada Greener Homes Initiative Program, you need to complete at least one retrofit recommended in your home’s EnerGuide evaluation.  Once your application has been approved and your evaluation completed, we would be happy to provide a quote for eligible replacement retrofit windows or doors for your home.  Contact Dayside Windows and Doors today!