QUOTE (RyanTopley @ Nov 30 2007, 10:31 AM)
Does anyone have any information on a program where the government provides a "rebate" for energy effiecient upgrades that you to an older property (EX/ upgrading frunace, changing windows, etc)? HOw do you apply for it and where can i find the qualifications involved?
Thanks
Ryan
Hey Ryan,
I just had an energy evaluation completed on a fixer upper in Calgary today.
First of all, thanks to REIN for introducing the ecoEnergy Retrofit program last summer at the all day workshop (I think). Every little bit helps! Especially if you are planning to add value through a renovation anyway. The key, as others have mentioned, is to get the initial inspection done before you start the project.
Unfortunately, the weakest part of the federal program is the grant for windows - $30 per rough opening. Windows / doors are obviously one of the greatest sources of heat loss and are often one of the higher cost items in a major renovation project. The Feds are also very stringent on the type of replacement window/door. They must have an Energy Star rating.
According to the inspector, the Stelmach gov't is going to announce a $200 subsidy for the cost of the inspections as part of their green plan. Inspectors have been instructed to brief their clients on this, but I couldn't find anything official on the gov't website or in the Herald / Journal as of today.
As others have mentioned, and the inspector reiterated, Ontario and some of the eastern provincial governments match the $ funded by the federal program. Not the case here in Alberta!
Perhaps we can get some of that budget surplus directed here. Good for the environment, cheaper utility bills for tenants, more of an incentive for property owners to add value, and a great eco friendly feature when you sell.
We should write our Alberta MLAs!
Darryl