The Home Renovation Savings (HRS) Program, launching on January 28, 2025, is set to revolutionize home energy efficiency in Ontario. This government-backed initiative provides significant rebates for energy-efficient home upgrades, with a spotlight on heat pumps, geothermal systems, and other improvements that reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your heating and cooling system, improve insulation, or install solar panels, this program is your gateway to energy savings and environmental sustainability. For many homeowners, the highlight is the new Heat Pump Rebate available through the HRS Program, which significantly offsets the cost of installation.
What Is the Home Renovation Savings Program? (Also referred to as the Heat Pump Rebate)
The HRS Program—often referred to as Ontario’s primary Heat Pump Rebate initiative—replaces previous rebate initiatives like HER and HER+, with a more streamlined approach to help homeowners across Ontario reduce their energy bills and carbon footprints. Key upgrades covered include:
- Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pumps (CC-ASHPs)
- Geothermal Heat Pumps (GSHPs)
- Smart Thermostats
- Solar Panels and Battery Storage Systems
- Energy-Efficient Insulation
- Energy Star Windows and Doors
The program offers two rebate streams:
- No Home Energy Audit Required: Perfect for single measures like heat pumps or solar panels.
- Audit Required: Ideal for homeowners completing multiple upgrades (minimum of 2 required).
Heat Pumps: The Star of the Program
One of the biggest draws of the Home Renovation Savings Program is the Heat Pump Rebate, designed to make upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient system more affordable for homeowners across Ontario.
Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pumps (CC-ASHPs)
Designed to operate efficiently even in Ontario’s harsh winters, CC-ASHPs are a key component of the program.
- Electrically Heated Homes:
- Rebate: $1,250 per ton, up to $7,500.
- These homes benefit the most from heat pump technology due to high potential energy savings.
- Enbridge Gas Heated Homes:
- Rebate: $500 per ton, up to $2,000.
Geothermal Heat Pumps (GSHPs)
Geothermal systems are a long-term investment offering unparalleled efficiency by using the earth’s natural temperature to heat and cool your home.
- Electrically Heated Homes:
- Rebate: $2,000 per ton, up to $12,000.
- Enbridge Gas Heated Homes:
- Flat rebate of $3,000.
Why Heat Pumps Are a Game-Changer
- Dual Functionality: Heat pumps handle heating and cooling, replacing furnaces and air conditioners with a single, energy-efficient system.
- Lower Energy Bills: Homeowners can save up to 50% on heating costs in electrically heated homes and 20-30% in gas-heated homes.
- Environmentally Friendly: Heat pumps produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than traditional heating systems, especially when paired with renewable energy sources like solar panels.
- No Home Energy Audit Needed: Rebates for heat pumps fall under Stream 1, meaning you can skip the audit process.
Other Rebates Available
While heat pumps are the centerpiece of the program, there are plenty of other upgrades to consider:
- Solar Panels:
- Rebate: $1,000 per kW, up to $5,000 (limited to 50% of project costs).
- Battery Storage Systems:
- Rebate: $300 per kWh, up to $5,000 (limited to 50% of project costs).
- Smart Thermostats:
- Rebate: $75 for eligible models.
- Water Heater Heat Pumps:
- Rebate: $500 (must be on NRCan’s eligible products list).
- Energy-Efficient Insulation:
- Up to $8,900 depending on the area (attic, basement, crawlspace, or exterior walls).
- Windows and Doors:
- Rebate: $100 per ENERGY STAR-certified window or door (minimum of 3 required).
Important Program Details
- No Rebate Stacking: Rebates cannot be combined with other programs or funding sources for the same measure.
- Audit Requirements (Stream 2):
- A minimum of 2 upgrades is required for homeowners pursuing multiple measures under this stream.
- Application Deadlines:
- Homeowners who completed audits under HER or HER+ between February 6, 2024, and January 7, 2025, have 180 days to finalize their audits.
Common Questions about the Home Renovation Savings Program
- How much can I save with a Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pump?
Depending on your home’s existing heating system and energy usage, installing a Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pump can lead to annual savings of hundreds of dollars on energy bills, alongside eligibility for substantial government rebates. - What are the benefits of geothermal heat pumps in Ontario?
Geothermal heat pumps offer significant benefits in Ontario by providing efficient, consistent heating and cooling, lowering energy costs, and reducing environmental impact. - Do I need an energy audit for heat pump rebates?
Yes, most Ontario heat pump rebate programs require a pre- and post-installation energy audit to verify eligibility and calculate the incentive amount.
How to Apply for the HRS Program
- Determine Your Eligibility: Decide whether Stream 1 (no audit required) or Stream 2 (audit required) is the best fit for your project.
- Plan Your Upgrades: Identify the energy-efficient upgrades you want to complete, focusing on high-rebate options like heat pumps or geothermal systems.
- Register: Enroll through the official Home Renovation Savings Program page.
- Work with Licensed Contractors: Ensure all installations are done by certified professionals to qualify for rebates.
- Submit Your Application: Rebates will be processed within 30 to 60 days of approval.
Ready to Save?
Ontario’s Home Renovation Savings Program (including the Ontario Heat Pump Rebate) is your opportunity to invest in energy-efficient solutions that lower your bills, increase your comfort, and reduce your environmental impact.
📞 Contact Affordable Comfort today to start your journey toward a greener home. Let us guide you through the process, from planning your upgrades to securing your rebates.
