Home Energy Navigator

• Canada Greener Homes Loan: $5,000-$40,000 in interest-free financing for 10 years. 

• Up to $5,500(opens in new window) for insulation improvements from CleanBC.
• Up to $100(opens in new window) per window and door upgrade from CleanBC (up to a maximum of $2,000).
• Up to $2000(opens in new window) bonus rebates for completing multiple upgrades from CleanBC.
• GST/HST refund(opens in new window) for a new or substantially renovated primary residence.
• Mortgage loan insurance refund up to 25% from CMHC(opens in new window) or Sagen(opens in new window). 

For more info, visit www.betterhomesbc.ca

• Up to $10,000 from the Federal Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program (for income-qualified households).
• CleanBC Better Homes Energy Savings Program:
  • Replaced the Income Qualified (IQ) Program on June 18, 2024.
  • Up to $24,500 to switch from fossil fuel heating to a high-efficiency heat pump.
  • Up to $3,500 for a heat pump water heater.
  • Up to $5,000 for electrical system upgrades associated with switching to a heat pump.
  • Up to $5,500 for insulation. 
  • Up to $9,500 for windows and doors. 
  • Up to $1,600 for ventilation. 
  • Up to $800 for health and safety measures. 
• FREE upgrades for income-qualifying homes (ECAP) from BC Hydro and FortisBC.

• Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels: Up to $5,000 
  • $1,000 per kilowatt (kW) of installed generator capacity.  
  • Rebate amount capped at 50% of total installed product cost (including labour and materials). 
• Battery energy storage systems: Up to $5000
  • Minimum storage size: 5 kilowatt-hours (kWh).
  • $500 per kWh of installed storage capacity.  
  • Rebate amount capped at 50% of total installed product cost (including labour and materials). 

The program is designed for homeowners at any stage of their energy-upgrade journey - whether you’re just starting to explore options, comparing quotes, or ready to complete a retrofit.

No. The Home Energy Navigator service is offered free of charge to Sooke residents through regional partnerships that support community climate action.

Navigators support a wide range of upgrades, including:

• Heat pumps
• Weather sealing and insulation
• Energy-efficient windows and doors
• Hot water heat pumps
• Indoor air quality improvements
• Renewable energy options (e.g., solar)

Energy evaluations are often recommended to determine which upgrades will have the most impact and to qualify for some rebates. Navigators can explain the process and help you book a certified energy advisor.

Navigators primarily offer virtual or phone-based support, but energy advisors or contractors may visit your home if an assessment or installation is required.

Navigators provide guidance on how to select contractors, what questions to ask, and how to compare quotes. They do not endorse specific businesses but help you make informed decisions.

Renters can access general advice and resources, but some upgrades and rebates require property owner approval. Navigators can help renters understand their options and work with landlords.

Many upgrades - especially heat pumps and insulation - can reduce energy use and improve comfort. Navigators can help you estimate potential savings based on your home.

A heat pump takes heat energy from one place and moves it to another – just like a refrigerator. In summer, it moves heat out of the house, and in the winter it moves heat into the house – even if it’s cold outside.

• Year-round comfort: A heat pump takes the place of both an air conditioner and a heating system, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
• Maximum efficiency: When installed properly, a heat pump uses half to a third as much energy as electric baseboards or a gas furnace.
• Climate prepared: Heat pumps also work in reverse in the summer to provide cooling, or air conditioning. Regional climate projections have shown that our region is expected to experience more days above 25°C in the future.
• Better indoor air quality: Most heat pumps provide air flow and dehumidification with options to add an enhanced filtration system to clean the air circulating through your home of indoor pollutants, dust, pollen, and other allergens.
• Reduced community greenhouse gas emissions: In Sooke - and across the capital region - heating, cooling, lighting, and powering buildings is our community’s second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. 
• Reduced risk of an oil spill on your property: Homeowners with aging or under-maintained home heating oil tanks may have environmental and financial risks. 

That’s okay. Navigators can help you assess your home, understand your options, and plan for future projects - even if you’re simply gathering information.