FIELD NOTES / THE NEXT STEP

A plan for funding.
Without the guesswork.

An attractive headline can outlive the program behind it. Before signing a solar or electrical-upgrade contract, check whether funding is open, whether your property qualifies, and whether approval is needed before work begins.

Official status: Natural Resources Canada — Canada Greener Homes Grant is closed ↗ and UCA — Renewable energy grants and programs ↗. Existing approved participants should follow the instructions attached to their own application.

Financing is different from a rebate.

Alberta’s Clean Energy Improvement Program provides financing for eligible efficiency and renewable-energy projects in participating municipalities. Repayment is through the property tax bill. The amount financed remains a cost to repay; it is not free equipment or a universal cash grant.

Program terms, interest, eligible projects and application availability are municipality-specific. Financing is attached to the property, so a future sale also needs a clear discussion about repayment or assumption of the obligation. Alberta Municipalities — Clean Energy Improvement Program ↗.

Ask these questions before committing.

1. Is the program accepting applications for my municipality and property type?
2. Must I apply or receive approval before installation, or arrange an energy evaluation?
3. Which equipment and contractors qualify, and which costs are eligible?
4. What do I repay, at what rate, and how does it appear on my property tax bill?
5. Can this be combined with another program, and what happens when the property is sold?

Our energy lab does not assume a grant, rebate, financing approval or installed cost. Keep your bill scenario separate from a contractor quote and a confirmed funding agreement.