B.C. announces expansion of heat pump rebates to renters and condo owners
Renters and condo owners' eligibility determined by income, government says
B.C.'s Energy Ministry has expanded a program to reduce energy use and lower bills for some apartment renters and condo owners.
The expansion, part of the Clean B.C. Energy Savings Program, will provide up to $5,000 to support the purchase and installation of high-performance electric heat pumps in individual suites in multi-unit residential buildings, according to the province.
"All British Columbians who need a heat pump should have access to one, to feel comfortable in their homes year-round, experience better energy efficiency, and save money. So, we're expanding our support to focus on helping apartment renters and condominium owners," said Adrian Dix, the minister of energy and climate solutions.
It's part of $100 million allocated by the province to provide up to 8,300 rebates over two years and applies to suites in condo and apartment buildings that are six storeys and under and are currently heated by electricity.
The government says the program will be expanded again in the fall to include those heated by fossil fuels, such as a gas-fired boiler.
"We are encouraged by the expansion of the heat pump rebate program to renters and condo owners living in lower-rise MURBs," said Shauna Sylvester, the director of the non-profit Urban Climate Leadership. "It's been difficult for people living in these buildings to get relief from the extreme heat. This program is a step in the right direction in creating healthy, safe and resilient homes for more British Columbians."
Renters and condo owners must qualify by income and have signed permission forms from respective landlords and strata corporations.
With files from Canadian Press