Considering energy efficient home renovations this spring? We can help!
May. 26/22
Change for Climate is a climate change initiative from the City of Edmonton.
May. 26/22
Change for Climate is a climate change initiative from the City of Edmonton.
Spring is officially here, and with it comes home renovation season. There are dozens of reasons to renovate your home, but for many energy savings and climate action are front of mind. Our surveys show that 77% of Edmontonians agree that we need to act now to address climate change and a major way to do that is renovating existing homes to be more energy efficient.
The City’s Home Energy Retrofit Accelerator (HERA) Program can help you understand your home’s energy use, and provides recommendations on how to increase its energy efficiency. It also provides rebates for upgrades to insulation, windows, water and space heating equipment, among others. HERA encourages homeowners to plan out renovations in order to achieve deep energy savings. It does this through providing a bonus rebate of 20% for performing three or more upgrades. HERA can be stacked with Canada’s Greener Homes Grant for further rebates!
To start the HERA process you will need an EnerGuide evaluation from a qualified energy advisor. We recommend you work with a building professional to help you custom design your home’s renovation to achieve deep energy savings.
In the meantime here are some tips to help you plan your home's renovation to maximize energy savings:
- Make it tight. Efficient homes minimize treated air leaving your home by air sealing any cracks or holes, and replacing outdated windows and doors with efficient ones.
- Insulate right. Reduce the amount of heat lost through exterior surfaces through insulating attics, walls, windows and doors with high quality material. Not only will this keep your home warm in the winter, but it will also help it stay cool in the summer.
- Size for the space. Homes with better insulation and improved air tightness require less space conditioning and are great candidates for electric heat pumps for both heating and cooling.
- Make up the difference. An efficient home has mechanical systems and appliances that are powered by electricity. A rooftop solar panel installation can generate enough green electricity to meet your home’s needs.
By approaching home upgrades in this order you will be setting yourself up for a successful deep energy retrofit. Your home will be more energy efficient, more comfortable, and you will save money on your utility bills.
