Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Kingston is relaunching its Better Homes Kingston program to help homeowners complete energy-efficient upgrades through low-interest financing and new rebate options.
Applications for the program open May 4 and will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until funding is fully allocated.
The Better Homes Kingston program offers eligible homeowners access to low-interest loans for energy retrofits, with participants able to receive up to 50 per cent of approved funding upfront. The relaunch also introduces new rebates for Utilities Kingston natural gas customers, which can be accessed independently or combined with loan financing.
The program is part of Kingston’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040 by helping residents reduce household energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
“Energy costs are rising, and homeowners that want to make upgrades can struggle with upfront expenses,” said Soren Christianson, project manager with the city’s Climate Leadership Division. “The Better Homes Program helps remove barriers by combining financing, rebates and support from an energy coach to guide residents through the process from start to finish.”
Participants in the program will also receive assistance from an energy coach, who can help homeowners understand available retrofit options, determine eligibility and complete projects.
City officials said energy-efficiency improvements can help residents lower monthly utility bills, improve home comfort and reduce emissions.
Full program details, eligibility requirements and application information are available through the city’s Better Homes Kingston webpage.
