Ontario has introduced the Home Renovation Savings Program (HRSP) as part of a landmark $10.9 billion, 12-year energy efficiency strategy—the largest in Canadian history. The HRSP officially launched on January 28, 2025.
- Eligible Renovation Upgrades & Rebates
The program offers rebates of up to 30% on various energy-efficient home upgrades, including:
Home energy assessments: $600 rebate
Windows and doors: $100 per unit
Insulation: Up to $8,900
Air sealing: Up to $250
Smart thermostats: $75
Heat pump water heaters: $500
Cold-climate air-source heat pumps: Up to $7,500
Ground-source heat pumps: Up to $12,000
Rooftop solar panels: Up to $5,000
Battery storage systems: Up to $5,000
Rebates typically arrive within 30 to 60 days after approval.
- Inclusion of Refrigerators & Freezers
Later in 2025, HRSP will expand to include energy-efficient appliances such as refrigerators and freezers. However, specific rebate amounts for these appliances have yet to be announced.
- Expanded Accessibility
Eligibility now includes homeowners who heat their homes with propane or oil, not just electricity users.
The program extends to all homeowners across Ontario, including those with secondary residences or cottages.
- Program Goals & Broader Policy Context
Ontario plans to spend an average of $900 million annually on energy efficiency combatting rising demands, compared to the historical average of $342 million.
These programs are projected to reduce peak electricity demand by 3,000 MW by 2036—equivalent to removing 3 million homes from the grid.
The expansion supports energy affordability, lowers grid strain, and helps delay costly infrastructure investments.
- Business Incentives: Peak Perks Extension
The existing Peak Perks program, which encourages reduced energy consumption during peak hours through smart thermostat integration, will now also support small businesses. Approved businesses will receive:
$75 for enrolling each eligible smart thermostat
Plus $20 per year per enrolled unit
- Public & Industry Response
The investment has been welcomed by clean energy advocates and industry groups, praising its potential to drive retrofits, improve energy savings, and create economic opportunities.
Critics note this program reverses earlier cuts to energy efficiency incentives when prior governments canceled similar schemes in 2018.