City of Toronto HELPs Homeowners Improve Energy Efficiency of Homes
By Lucas on Jan 30, 2014
Image via www.Toronto.ca
Exciting news - the City of Toronto has taken another step toward creating a more sustainable future by introducing the Home Energy Loan Program (HELP).
What is HELP?
Last summer, Toronto City Council “approved a $20 million pilot water and energy efficiency program for improvements to private residential properties.” The single-family residential program is called HELP. The program is basically a new financing tool to help you improve your home’s energy efficiency and save you money.
There are a number of different improvements you can make to your home to make it more energy efficient, such as installing a new boiler, getting your windows and doors replaced, and insulating your attic. The problem is that people have a hard time affording the upfront costs of these improvements, and that’s where HELP comes in.
How does HELP work?
It’s really easy. You just apply online, expressing your interest in improving the energy efficiency of your home, and if you meet all the essential criteria, the City helps you with the “Full Application.”
Once you have qualified, you will get a low-interest loan. The loan amount is based on what improvements you are getting done. There are payment plans that span up to 15 years, and it’s broken down into installments on your property tax bill.
The interesting thing about the HELP payment process is that the billing is attached to the property, not you. If you decide to move, the new owner takes on the responsibility of completing the payments.
More examples of improvements supported by HELP
Source: www1.toronto.ca
High efficiency furnace/boiler
High efficiency central air conditioner
High efficiency water heater
Heat recovery/energy recovery ventilator
Drain water heat recovery system
Window/door replacement
Air sealing (i.e. weather stripping, caulking)
Attic insulation
Exterior wall insulation
Basement insulation
Toilet replacement
To learn more about HELP, click here.
