Canada announces $2 billion home retrofit and heat pump rebate program

The Canadian government has announced a $2 billion investment to fund one million home retrofits, part of a National Electricity Strategy aimed at reducing carbon emissions and household energy expenses. Unveiled in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, the initiative includes a National Heat Pump Rebate program. Under this scheme, up to 820,000 households could receive assistance, with those earning below the median income eligible for rebates up to $10,000, while other eligible households may receive $2,000.

In Nova Scotia, the provincial Heating Assistance Rebate Program (HARP) has also reopened for the new season. The program offers a CA$400 rebate to individuals with net incomes up to CA$30,000 and households up to CA$45,000. However, advocates from the Ecology Action Centre and ACORN have criticized the current structure, noting that the rebate amount and income thresholds have been significantly reduced compared to previous years. Critics argue these cuts may increase energy poverty as electricity and heating oil costs continue to rise.