What rebates are available for energy-efficient renovations in Ottawa?

Ottawa homeowners can access several energy efficiency rebates through federal, provincial, and utility programs, but navigating these requires working with certified contractors and proper permits.

Canada Greener Homes Grant Program

The federal government offers up to $5,000 for eligible energy-efficient renovations through the Canada Greener Homes Grant. This requires:

• Pre and post-renovation EnerGuide evaluations ($300-600 each)


• Work must be completed by licensed contractors


• All electrical work needs ESA permits and licensed electrical contractors


• HVAC upgrades require TSSA-certified technicians and City of Ottawa permits

Popular eligible upgrades include heat pumps, insulation, windows, doors, and smart thermostats. The contractor you hire must provide proper documentation and warranties for rebate approval.

Enbridge Gas Rebates

Enbridge offers rebates for Ottawa customers upgrading to high-efficiency natural gas equipment:

• High-efficiency furnaces: up to $1,000


• Tankless water heaters: up to $1,000


• Smart thermostats: up to $100

All gas work must be performed by TSSA-certified G1 or G2 technicians. You can verify technician certification at tssa.org. Any new gas appliance installation requires both TSSA permits and City of Ottawa building permits (613-580-2424).

Hydro Ottawa Programs

Hydro Ottawa provides rebates for electrical efficiency upgrades:

• Heat pump rebates: $250-1,000 depending on type


• Electric vehicle charger rebates: up to $500


• Smart home energy management systems

Electrical work requires Licensed Electrical Contractors (LEC) - verify at esasafe.com/contractor-locator. All electrical upgrades need ESA permits and inspections.

What to Watch For When Hiring

Many contractors will promise to "handle all the rebate paperwork," but you need to verify:

• They're properly licensed (ESA for electrical, TSSA for gas/HVAC)


• They have current WSIB clearance (wsib.ca/clearances)


• They understand specific rebate requirements and documentation


• They'll obtain proper City of Ottawa permits through ottawa.ca/building

Red Flags to Avoid

Be cautious of contractors who:

• Guarantee rebate approval without seeing your home


• Want full payment upfront "for rebate processing"


• Can't provide proper licensing numbers


• Suggest skipping permits to "save money"

Getting Started

Contact Canada Greener Homes at 1-833-674-8282 for initial EnerGuide evaluation

Get quotes from multiple licensed contractors through verified directories

Ensure contractors understand rebate requirements and will provide proper documentation

Verify all permits are pulled through City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424)

Remember, rebates are great, but the most important thing is hiring properly licensed contractors who follow Ontario Building Code and obtain required permits. The money you might save cutting corners will cost much more if work fails inspection or causes problems later.

For finding verified contractors experienced with energy efficiency rebates, check our contractor directory at ottawaconstructionnetwork.com/directory.