An overwhelming response to the launch of Edmonton's Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) Pilot has resulted in all funds being allocated for residential projects as well as a waitlist started for additional applicants. Based on the incredible interest from Edmontonians, the City is exploring ways to expand the program to meet community demand.
"When we started out one of the key questions we wanted to answer was, are Edmontonians interested in this? Clearly the answer is yes," said Barbara Daly, Program Manager, Environment and Climate Resilience. "We are thrilled with the enthusiasm Edmontonians showed for this program by stepping up so quickly to help us meet our climate change goals."
The prequalification applications submitted within the first two hours of the pilot opening sought deep energy improvement projects at an average of $35,000 per residence. As these projects move forward, some may receive City of Edmonton energy retrofit rebates. These rebates will free CEIP funds to allocate to additional projects. At that time, residents on the waitlist will be approached on a first-come, first-served basis.
"Our goal was to encourage deep energy retrofits by requiring a minimum of three energy efficiency retrofits per participant. This will help Edmonton move closer to its goal of Net Zero GHG emissions by 2050," added Daly.
While funding for CEIP may be fully allocated, there are several programs and grants available to help homeowners with their energy efficiency. The City offers home energy retrofit rebates including the Home Energy Retrofit Accelerator and the Solar Rebate Program. These programs help homeowners take meaningful climate action by reducing their home's carbon emissions and energy use. In addition, some of the City rebates may be eligible for stacking with other energy efficiency incentive programs, including the federal government's Greener Homes Grant program.
The CEIP is a pilot program providing access to low-cost financing to help Edmontonians make a minimum of three energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades to residential homes. A second pilot for commercial properties will roll out later in 2022. The process involves the City providing $11.25 million in financing and rebates to address most upfront costs. The financing is then repaid by the property owners through the owners' property taxes.
The City received a $9.69-million loan from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Green Municipal Fund to develop and launch the pilot programs.
Alberta Municipalities is administering the pilot program. The CEIP aims to advance efforts to improve environmental resiliency as part of Edmonton's Community Energy Transition Strategy and Action Plan.
Residents who wish to be added to the waitlist may do so by filling out a Residential Pre-qualification form available at myceip.ca/edmonton/.
For more information:
Clean Energy Improvement Program
