BC government announces Expanded Heat Pump Program
May 14th, 2024
Recognizing British Columbia’s escalating extreme weather events, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), in partnership with Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN), has made a significant federal investment of up to $103.7 million in BC from Canada’s Low Carbon Economy fund and the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program. This substantial commitment is further bolstered by the provincial support of British Columbia’s Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation and the Ministry of Environment of Climate Change Strategy, who have pledged an additional $151 million from the province.
At its core, the program is designed to empower middle—to low-income British Columbians to reduce their energy costs. Specifically, funding will be available in the form of grants for individuals and families within these demographics seeking to switch their home heating systems from a reliance on fossil fuels to cleaner sources. With the support of the program, those who qualify can receive as much as $16,000 in rebates to support their transition to cleaner heating systems, a %70 percent increase from BC’s existing heat-pump rebate program.
Additional targeted funding is available for residents of northern BC and homes throughout the province that require electrical upgrades to transition to cleaner heating systems.
In an interview with the Vancouver Sun, Martin Luymes, Vice President of HRAI, stressed the industry’s support for rebates to help Canadians transition to greener homes. However, his comments also noted the possibility of increased demand fueled by the rebates putting stress on a residential HVACR industry without enough qualified technicians to answer the call. Unfortunately, Martin notes, this may lead to opportunities for under-qualified technicians to take advantage of the rebate offered to British Columbians, which is a serious concern.
MLAs in the BC legislature have voiced sentiments similar to those expressed by Luymes. For example, BC Green Party Leader Sonia Furstenau has called for improving the training systems for HVACR technicians to ensure there are enough professionals to install heat pump systems throughout the province safely.
Learn more:
British Columbians will soon be able to get up to $16,000 off the cost of installing a heat pump | Vancouver Sun
Expanded heat pump program helps British Columbians save on home-energy costs | BC Gov News
Back to Newsletters
