Embrace Warmth, Save on Energy Bills: The Home Winterproofing and Energy Affordability Programs

By Puneet Shroff

Attention homeowners and prospective buyers! As we brace ourselves for the chill of the winter season, there is no doubt that the thought of escalating energy costs can be daunting. If you are a seller preparing your home for sale, or a buyer who has recently purchased a property without an inspection, or perhaps a homeowner trying to offset the burden of unexpected utility bills, we have good news for you. The Enbridge Gas Home Winterproofing and Energy Affordability Programs, in collaboration with the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) and Save on Energy, are here to the rescue. These programs, designed specifically for income-eligible households, offer a two-fold benefit. Not only can they help you substantially reduce your energy consumption, but also enhance the overall energy efficiency of your home, entirely free of cost.

The Home Winterproofing Program

The Enbridge Gas Home Winterproofing Program is a specialized service designed to help homeowners in Ontario save on energy costs by enhancing the energy efficiency of their homes. The program includes a free home energy assessment conducted by a trusted delivery agent, followed by the installation of free energy-efficient upgrades, if eligible.

The key benefit of the program is the potential savings on energy bills. By making your home more energy-efficient, you can significantly reduce energy consumption, which can result in lower energy bills. Moreover, by reducing energy consumption, you're also contributing to a greener environment by reducing your carbon footprint.

Eligibility Criteria for the Home Winterproofing Program

To take advantage of the Home Winterproofing Program, you need to meet a few eligibility criteria.

• You must have an Enbridge Gas account in your name.
• Your home must be heated with a natural gas furnace or boiler.
• You need to meet specific income criteria or receive assistance from select government programs.

Income Levels for Eligibility

To be eligible for the program, your before-tax household income must not exceed certain levels, depending on the number of people living in your home.

Number of people in the home	Before-tax household income
1	$42,437
2	$60,014
3	$73,501
4	$84,872
5	$94,890
6	$103,947
7+	$112,275

Government Assistance Programs for Eligibility

Alternatively, you may be eligible for the program if you receive assistance from any of the following government programs:

• Ontario Works
• Ontario Disability Support Program
• LEAP Emergency Financial Assistance Grant
• Guaranteed Income Supplement
• Allowance for Seniors
• Allowance for Survivors
• Healthy Smiles
• Ontario Electricity Support Program
• Energy Affordability Program (formerly known as the Home Assistance Program)

The Program Process

Participating in the Home Winterproofing Program involves a straightforward process.

1. Check Qualification: You can check if your home qualifies by applying online or by phone. After submitting your application, an authorized delivery agent will get in touch with you to confirm your eligibility.
2. Provide Proof of Income: You will need to provide proof of income to ensure the program is helping those who need it the most.
3. Schedule a Home Visit: If your home qualifies, an agent will schedule a home energy assessment to identify areas where energy might be escaping.
4. Free Installation: If your home is eligible for free upgrades, qualified contractors will install them at no cost.
5. Get Follow-Up Support: After the installation, the agent will revisit your home to ensure everything is working properly.

The Energy Affordability Program

Aside from the Home Winterproofing Program, qualified property owners can also take advantage of the Energy Affordability Program. This scheme aids those who are eligible based on their income to control their monthly electric bills more effectively and enhance the comfort of their homes. You can apply online or via telephone.

Comprehensive Support and Energy Saving Kits

The Energy Affordability Program offers two types of support: Comprehensive Support and Energy Saving Kits.

• Comprehensive Support: This entails a free home energy needs assessment conducted by an energy-efficiency expert who will identify opportunities for energy savings. Depending on your eligibility and existing home equipment, you might receive energy-saving upgrades, including LED light bulbs, high-efficiency showerheads, faucet aerators, smart power strips, smart thermostats, etc.

• Energy Saving Kits: If your annual household income surpasses the threshold level for Comprehensive Support, you may still be eligible for a free energy-saving kit. This kit includes a variety of energy-saving products that you can install yourself, like LED light bulbs, weather stripping, handheld showerhead, etc.

Final Thoughts

The Home Winterproofing Program and the Energy Affordability Program are great initiatives that help Ontario homeowners reduce energy consumption, save on energy bills, and contribute to a greener environment. If you are an eligible homeowner in Ontario, we strongly encourage you to take advantage of these programs. Remember, a more energy-efficient home means more comfort and more money in your wallet! Stay in touch with our office for further information and updates.