If you’re planning a major home upgrade in BC, like replacing your old furnace or upgrading insulation, you might be eligible for thousands of dollars in rebates through the CleanBC Better Homes Energy Savings Program. But with so many details, fine print, and overlapping programs, it can be hard to figure out where to start. So in this post, we’re breaking it all down: who qualifies, how it works, and how you can take the first step toward a more energy-efficient home and a successful home energy retrofit.
What’s the Goal of the Program?
At its core, this program is all about helping British Columbians make their homes healthier, more comfortable, and more energy efficient while reducing your financial burden upfront. That means lower monthly bills and reduced greenhouse gas emissions across the province. One thing that makes this program especially powerful is its focus on affordability. Many rebates are income-based—meaning lower-income households may qualify for enhanced rebates that can cover most, or even all, of the cost of certain upgrades.
Who’s Eligible? Income Qualification Requirements
To qualify, you need to meet a few basic criteria:
- Be a BC resident living in your primary residence
- Have an individual utility account with BC Hydro, FortisBC, or a municipal utility
- Meet certain income requirements based on the number of people in your household
There are three income levels, with higher rebates available for Levels 1 and 2. For example:
- A single person qualifies for Level 1 with an income up to $47,007
- A four-person household qualifies for Level 1 up to $87,350
- Income Level 3 has higher thresholds but offers enhanced rebates only if you’re switching from fossil fuel heating systems
Important Note: If your home’s assessed value is over $1,203,000, even if your income qualifies you for Level 1 or 2, you’ll be placed in Level 3.
What Kind of Homes Qualify for the CleanBC Energy Savings Program?
Eligible homes include:
- Single-family homes
- Secondary suites with separate meters
- Duplexes, townhomes, and triplexes (with individual meters)
New builds are excluded. The home must be an existing structure and your primary residence. Most common heating systems are eligible, including natural gas, propane, oil, electric baseboard, and even wood.
Renters can apply too, but you’ll need your landlord to sign a consent form, and the utility account must be in your name.
What Upgrades Are Covered?
This is where things get exciting. Depending on your household income level, you could receive up to:
- $19,000 for installing a heat pump. Learn more about heat pump rebates.
- $3,500 for a heat pump water heater
- $5,000 for electrical service upgrades (if needed for your new equipment)
- $5,500 for insulation upgrades
- $9,500 for windows and doors upgrades
- $1,600 for ventilation improvements
- $800 for health and safety-related upgrades
For income levels 1 and 2, these rebates can sometimes cover the full upgrade cost of installation.
CleanBC Rebate Coverage: Key Program Rules
Before you get started, make sure to follow these essential steps:
- Pre-register online and get an eligibility code before starting any work. If you skip this step, you won’t qualify for rebates.
- Use a registered contractor approved by the CleanBC program. Your contractor must be certified for the specific upgrade you’re installing (e.g., insulation, heat pump, etc.).
- The contractor submits the rebate application on your behalf, often deducting the rebate amount from your final invoice.
- All paperwork must be submitted within six months of completing your upgrade.
You can read our complete guide here to make sure you don’t miss a beat.
Avoid Scams
CleanBC will never ask for your banking info or require upfront payment to secure a rebate. If you receive a suspicious message or call, report it to Better Homes BC at betterhomesbc@gov.bc.ca.
Get CleanBC Support Along the Way
Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone, and there’s help available.
This program isn’t just about saving money today, it’s an investment in your comfort, your home’s energy efficiency, and a more sustainable BC. If your household qualifies for income-based rebates, you could be looking at serious savings. But even if you don’t, the long-term energy savings and climate benefits make these upgrades well worth considering.
Want to know more? Contact Shoreline BP today. Our team of energy advisors are experts in navigating federal and provincial incentives to help you get the most for your money. We’re here to help.
