As the Greener Homes Grant initiative wraps up, New Brunswick is launching a new program to encourage sustainable home construction through significant rebate incentives. This program aims to promote the use of renewable energy and energy-efficient home designs in newly built residences.
Program Overview
The program offers a tiered rebate system, with incentives ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, depending on the energy efficiency measures adopted:
Tier 1: Basic rebate of $1,000 for minimal compliance with eligibility requirements.
Tier 2: Up to $9,000 rebate for incorporating solar power or similar renewable energy sources.
Tier 3: Maximum rebate of $15,000 for homes achieving the highest standards of energy efficiency and renewable energy integration.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the rebates, either builders or homeowners need to register for the program prior to obtaining their building permits. Key eligibility requirements include:
Properties must be located in New Brunswick and primarily heated through electricity, cord wood, pellets, natural gas, or propane.
Eligible residential types include single detached houses, semi-detached houses, and row houses with necessary separations in heating and ventilation systems.
Homes must be built on eligible foundations such as basement foundations, slab-on-grade with anchors, concrete blocks on engineered pads, or piers and beams.
Only residential properties as defined under Part 9 of the National Building Code of Canada 2015 are eligible. These properties should not exceed three stories and must have a footprint under 600 m2 (6,458 ft2).
Ineligible Properties Include:
Homes heated with oil.
Mixed-use buildings with less than 50% residential occupancy.
Multi-unit residential buildings, except certain two-unit buildings with specific internal configurations.
Off-grid buildings, seasonal cottages, and non-year-round residences.
Rebate Incentive Details
Participants must undertake at least five upgrades across three categories: Building Envelope, Mechanical Systems, and Domestic Hot Water:
Building Envelope: Enhancements should focus on insulation, air tightness, and advanced roofing.
Mechanical Systems: Involves the installation of efficient heat pumps or boilers.
Domestic Hot Water: Incorporation of energy-efficient hot water heating systems.
Achieving Zero-Energy Status
Homes that manage to balance their annual energy use with on-site renewable energy production, primarily via solar power, qualify for the higher rebate tiers. This zero-energy status is assessed through the EnerGuide Rating System, which confirms the energy performance of residential units.
Benefits of Solar Installation
Installing solar technology not only qualifies you for the mid to high-tier rebates but also provides substantial long-term savings on energy costs. The upfront cost reduction facilitated by the rebate makes this a lucrative option for homeowners planning new construction projects.
Support and Guidance
Our team of Solar Specialists and Project Managers is ready to guide you through the process, ensuring you maximize the rebate potential and meet all the required standards for your new home. We will assist you in obtaining a tailored solar proposal to meet your specific energy needs.
This initiative reflects New Brunswick’s commitment to sustainable development and energy efficiency in residential construction, promising significant savings and environmental benefits for homeowners. Make the most of this opportunity to enhance your home’s energy efficiency through smart construction and renewable energy solutions.
Comments