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Author: Alyssa Heuchert

PROJECT FEATURE: NORTHVIEW RESIDENTIAL REIT

FREE ENERGY EFFICIENCY UPGRADES PROVIDING REAL BENEFITS

Our In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program is a full-service program that helps apartments, townhouses, condominiums, assisted living facilities, and personal care homes across Manitoba reduce their energy use and operating costs. The free energy-saving devices and incentives we provide benefit both building residents and the environment. 

And that’s exactly how we helped Northview Residential REIT! 

THE PROJECT

Northview Residential REIT, which owns and manages apartment buildings and commercial properties across Canada, recently took steps to improve the energy efficiency of its Manitoba properties. For the past few years, Northview has partnered with Catalys to build a portfolio-wide Energy and Sustainability Program, designed to cut through the overwhelming number of market options and focus on the projects that deliver the greatest impact. 

By leveraging Catalys’ tools and expertise, Northview has been able to identify and execute on the highest-value opportunities across its portfolio. In 2024, that partnership led to a plan for targeted energy efficiency upgrades in tenant spaces at their Winnipeg properties, continuing their progress toward both financial and sustainability goals. 

Northview Residential REIT began the process with our Commercial Energy Audit Program, which provides financial incentives and technical support to building owners who complete energy audits on their commercial buildings. Through our program, they conducted energy audits on some of their Winnipeg properties, which included various multi-unit residential buildings. We provided them with approximately $22,800 in incentives to help offset the cost of the audits. 

As a result of the energy audits, we were able to identify energy-saving opportunities for Northview Residential REIT to reduce the energy use of their buildings as well as the Efficiency Manitoba incentives they were eligible for. They then had six of their multi-unit residential buildings participate in our In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program, which offers two levels of upgrades: 

  • The Basic Upgrade includes free bathroom and kitchen faucet aerators, showerheads, shower timers, tier 2 advanced power strips, and other energy-saving items, installed at no cost. 
  • The Premium Upgrade includes all Basic Upgrades, plus incentives of up to $250 per suite for smart thermostats and advanced heat recovery ventilator (HRV) controls, installed by a certified electrician.

Previously, Northview Residential REIT focused their energy-saving efforts on their buildings’ common areas, as in-suite improvements presented challenges due to high costs and limited staff availability. However, our In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program addressed these obstacles through our full-service approach and free energy-saving devices.  

“The In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program gave us an opportunity to both save on utilities and equipment cost, which improved Northview’s tenant’s experience. In addition to free energy-saving devices provided by the program, the offer to install the devices was extremely valuable, since we often come into staff limitations for any systematic in-suite activities.” 
— Marija, Catalys

THE RESULTS

Northview Residential REIT completed Basic Upgrades in six of their Winnipeg properties, with just over 830 suites receiving energy- and water-saving devices. The upgrades are expected to save approximately 924,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity and 68,000 cubic metres (m3) of natural gas annually. This translates to over $63,000 in collective energy bill savings each year for Northview and their residents! And the resident feedback has been extremely positive. 

“We received very good feedback from the residents and the team regarding the techs that were working in our buildings for the Efficiency Manitoba program. Residents said that they were the best vendors they ever dealt with; very professional, polite, neat.” 
– Roxanna, Northview Residential REIT Regional Manager 

THE PROCESS

If you’re a property manager, owner, or condo board member of a multi-unit residential building, our In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program can help lower your utility bills and create a more comfortable living environment for your residents. Participating in the program is easy. You apply, and we’ll take care of the rest!   

Once you apply and your eligibility is verified, our third-party service provider (CLEAResult Canada) will contact you to review the process, collect building information, and schedule your Basic Upgrade installation. 

During your Basic Upgrade, CLEAResult Canada will assess your building’s eligibility for a Premium Upgrade. For eligible suites that choose to proceed with a Premium Upgrade, CLEAResult Canada will coordinate installation by a certified electrician, and we’ll provide incentives of $100 per smart thermostat and $150 per advanced HRV control (up to $250 per suite). 

Ready to reduce your energy bills? Apply for our In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program today and start on the path toward a more sustainable and cost-effective future!  

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EMPOWERING INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES

ENERGY SAVINGS THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS

Energy efficiency is a powerful tool for sustainable growth and environmental stewardship. Through our First Nation Energy Efficiency Program, we work with First Nation communities to support their energy efficiency goals, and ultimately, reduce overall community energy use. 

ACHIEVING GOALS TOGETHER

Our First Nation Energy Efficiency Program partners with communities to create a plan that helps everyone save energy and money. We offer free energy efficiency upgrades such as insulation, LED light bulbs, smart thermostats, and more. In addition to free upgrades, we provide ongoing technical support. Communities can rely on our team of experts to support them in achieving their energy efficiency goals. We’ll help you identify a labour solution and have everything installed by the contractor of your choice or community members — we’ll even provide training if you need it. 

SKOWNAN FIRST NATION’S SUCCESS STORY

Skownan First Nation has been exploring the energy-saving opportunities available to them. This initiative has made it easier to access energy-saving solutions, which will allow the community to save energy now and into the future. 

They plan to make various upgrades throughout their community, such as increasing the insulation R-value in the attics of homes and commercial buildings and upgrading to ENERGY STAR® certified triple pane windows. 

Skownan First Nation has also launched their first “outsulation” pilot project. Mineral wool has been added to the exterior of the house, creating a thermal break, which reduces heat loss through the studs in the wall assembly and ensures durability of the structure. Rain screen principles were also applied, further increasing the durability of the home and longevity of the siding. Iain Geeves, Efficiency Manitoba’s Indigenous Programs Technical Advisor, attended the build for three days, providing direction and hands-on labour while working alongside local trades, helping to increase construction expertise in the community. 

“By working shoulder-to-shoulder with local tradespeople, we’re not just improving one home — we’re working towards building the capacity for Skownan to replicate these high-performance retrofits across the community. That kind of local expertise leads to greater potential for long-term savings and resilience in the built environment.”
— Iain, Indigenous Programs Technical Advisor

Skownan First Nation’s efforts will reduce the building energy consumption by 24% and save an estimated $520 annually on energy bills. These substantial upgrades will make this climate-resilient home more resistant to mould and water-related issues, making it healthier and more comfortable to live in.

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PROJECT FEATURE: JENNA RAE CAKES

SWEET SAVINGS FOR A SMALL BUSINESS 

After being selected as one of the winners of our 2024 Small Business Week contest, Jenna Rae Cakes is savouring some sweet savings! 

THE PROJECT

Jenna Rae Cakes is a boutique bakery in Winnipeg that’s been making life a little sweeter since opening its doors in 2014. Founded by twin sisters Jenna and Ashley, the bakery quickly became a local favourite, with customers lining up outside their very first location in River Heights to get a taste of their beautiful treats and unique flavours. From macarons, cookies and cupcakes to wedding cakes, Jenna Rae Cakes has become a Winnipeg staple and a go-to for celebrations.  

Their flagship location on Academy Road was selected as one of the winners of our 2024 Small Business Week contest.   

“We heard about the Small Business Program through an email from a local business association. Our storefront on Academy Road is our first location and was really in need of a lighting upgrade. We were also looking for ways to reduce our operating costs, so the timing of the contest couldn’t have been better!”  
—Jeffery Illchuk, Manager of Supplies and Maintenance

THE OFFER

Our Small Business Program is a full-service solution that helps small businesses become more energy efficient and save money. We offer two levels of upgrades: 

  • The Basic Upgrade includes free supply and installation of bathroom and kitchen faucet aerators, showerheads, pre-rinse spray valves, and tier 2 advanced power strips, as well as a free lighting and attic insulation assessment. 
  • The Premium Upgrade includes all Basic Upgrades and covers 70% of the material and labour costs for LED linear lamps, specialty LED bulbs, LED exit signs, smart thermostats, lighting controls, and pitched roof attic insulation. 

Our 2024 Small Business Week contest provided seven lucky winners, including Jenna Rae Cakes, with access to these upgrades at no cost.  

THE SAVINGS

As part of the contest, Jenna Rae Cake’s was awarded a $500 energy bill credit, and we also covered 100% of the material and labour costs of their Premium Upgrade.   

Their Premium Upgrades included upgrading 44 fluorescent lamps and four incandescent globe bulbs to energy-efficient LEDs, installing an occupancy sensor, and upgrading their faucet aerators and pre-rinse spray values to more energy-efficient models. 

With these upgrades, they can expect to save over 8,500 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity and 600 cubic metres (m3) of natural gas every year. This will save them over $550 annually on their energy bills.

Not only have the lighting upgrades brightened their space for staff and customers, but the upgrades will also continue to support their small business behind the scenes with ongoing energy bill savings.    

ARE YOU A SMALL BUSINESS OWNER?

You can participate in our Small Business Program. It’s easy — you apply on our website, and we take care of the rest!     

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PROJECT FEATURE: MOMENTA

HOW MOMENTA’S WIN IS HELPING THEM SAVE ENERGY & MONEY 

Momenta was selected as one of the winners of our 2024 Small Business Week contest, and they’re now saving energy and money every day because of their free upgrades! 

Founded in 2006, Momenta provides outdoor education, activity-based counseling, and professional development workshops throughout Manitoba. They also host a year-round outdoor gear library in Winnipeg. Their goal is to reduce barriers and create greater access to the outdoors for individuals, families, and organizations seeking the therapeutic benefits of nature. 

Momenta’s staff strive to maintain a strong connection to the land and be able to nurture that same connection with the groups that access their programs. Their work is grounded in values such as inclusivity, community, safety, and radical acceptance, as well as a commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.   

As a small local business and B Corp certified organization, Momenta strives to ensure that every decision they make leaves a positive impact. “If we’re not energy efficient, we are going to lose our ability to be outside,” said Lise Brown, co-founder of Momenta. “Climate justice is a huge issue and has been since Momenta started.” 

After winning our contest in November 2024, Momenta was able to take action and become more energy efficient.  

THE OFFER

Our Small Business Program is a full-service solution that helps small businesses become more energy efficient and save money. We offer two levels of upgrades: 

  • The Basic Upgrade includes free supply and installation of bathroom and kitchen faucet aerators, showerheads, pre-rinse spray valves, and tier 2 advanced power strips, as well as a free lighting and attic insulation assessment. 
  • The Premium Upgrade includes all Basic Upgrades and covers 70% of the material and labour costs for LED linear lamps, specialty LED bulbs, LED exit signs, smart thermostats, lighting controls, and pitched roof attic insulation. 

Our 2024 Small Business Week contest provided seven lucky winners, including Momenta, with access to these upgrades at no cost.  

THE PROJECT

As part of the contest, Momenta was awarded a $500 energy bill credit, and we also covered 100% of the material and labour costs of their Premium Upgrade at their Winnipeg-based office. Their upgrades included four faucet aerators, switching 46 linear lamps to energy-efficient LEDs, and adding two occupancy sensors. 

“Your program is one of many things that has helped us achieve our goals. We were really excited to have won the Small Business Week contest because it had allowed us to do the things that we had on our list and make important upgrades.”  
— Lise, Momenta co-founder

THE SAVINGS

As a result of the upgrades, they’re expected to save approximately 2,200 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity and over 25,900 liters of water per year. They’ll also be saving on their energy bills for years into the future. 

“Our initial reach for this opportunity was from noticing that our energy bill was high and through an audit, we wanted to know what the problems were,” said Lise. “Our values are to be as efficient as possible in terms of our environmental decision making.”

By reducing their energy and water use, Momenta can continue to focus on what matters most to them: offering accessible outdoor programming to Manitobans.

ARE YOU A SMALL BUSINESS OWNER?

If you own a small business, we can help you save energy and money. Participating in the program is simple. You apply on our website, and we take care of the rest!   

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PROJECT FEATURE: DENE CREE DESIGNS

VIBRANT SAVINGS FOR AN INDIGENOUS SMALL BUSINESS

Our Indigenous Small Business Program is a full-service solution to help businesses become more energy efficient and save money.  

We offer two phases of free energy efficiency upgrades specifically for First Nation and Red River Métis small businesses, so you have the option to pick what’s right for you:  

  • The Basic Upgrade includes free supply and installation of A-line LED bulbs, bathroom and kitchen faucet aerators, showerheads, pre-rinse spray valves, advanced power strips, as well as a free lighting and attic insulation assessment. 
  • The Premium Upgrade includes all Basic Upgrades plus free linear lamps, specialty LED bulbs, LED exit signs, smart thermostats, lighting controls, and pitched roof attic insulation. 

Last year, we hosted a contest through our Small Business Programs, and Dene Cree Designs was selected as one of our winners! 

THE PROJECT

Dene Cree Designs is a proudly Indigenous-owned business that blends traditional Dene and Cree artistry with contemporary fashion and home décor. Based in Manitoba, the business has grown into a vibrant hub for cultural expression, offering handcrafted jewelry, beadwork, textiles, and custom pieces that celebrate Indigenous heritage. 

As winners of our Small Business Week contest, they won a $500 energy bill credit through our Indigenous Small Business Program.  

“When we saw the opportunity to apply for lighting upgrades at our business locations, we thought what a great opportunity. It would help lower our hydro costs and save us money. Where we can reduce overhead, it’s important. Plus, we’re a small Indigenous business, so every bit counts.”  
— Owner of Dene Cree Designs

Through the Premium Upgrade, Dene Cree Design was able to upgrade their outdated fluorescent and incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient LEDs, helping them save energy and money. They also added an occupancy sensor for even more energy savings.

THE SAVINGS

Because of their upgrades, they’re expected to save over 19,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity each year, which is a significant reduction in energy use. This translates to saving approximately $950 annually on their energy bills. 

THE INDIGENOUS SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

If you own a small business, we can help you save energy and money. Participating in the program is simple. You apply on our website, and we take care of the rest! 

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PROJECT FEATURE: MCCAIN FOODS LIMITED

HOW WE’RE HELPING INDUSTRIAL CUSTOMERS SAVE ENERGY & MONEY

If you’re looking to reduce your energy use in your industrial facility, we’re here to help. We work with industrial and large commercial customers throughout Manitoba to help identify, investigate, and implement energy-saving opportunities to make your facility’s operations more energy efficient. With help from our team of experts, we provide complimentary benchmark studies, energy efficiency assessments, and incentives that help offset the costs of leak assessments and repairs and feasibility studies. 

Once energy efficiency opportunities are identified, we also provide incentives to offset the costs of implementing energy efficiency upgrades. We take a project-based approach with the goal of maximizing your energy savings and incentives by participating in multiple programs that make sense for your business. We can help you lower your operating costs, improve the systems you currently use, and reduce your environmental impact. 

That’s exactly how we helped McCain Foods Limited identify and implement several energy efficiency upgrades in their processing facilities. 

SUBSTANTIAL SAVINGS FOR MCCAIN FOODS

McCain Foods is the world’s largest manufacturer of frozen potato products with two facilities in Manitoba. They’ve been working with us on numerous projects over the years including insulation and lighting upgrades as well as a variety of energy efficiency upgrades to their manufacturing processes. Projects have included compressed air upgrades, refrigeration upgrades, and recovering waste heat for reuse within their facility. 

Since working with us, McCain Foods has significantly reduced their energy use and greenhouse gas emissions at their two Manitoba locations. They’re also realizing substantial energy bill savings through these energy efficiency upgrades. 

“With help from both the knowledgeable team members and financial incentives, Efficiency Manitoba’s Custom Energy Solutions Program allowed us to identify and implement numerous upgrades in our facilities. We’re already seeing the benefits and look forward to working together on future projects.”  
— Mike Weissig, Sustainability Manager at McCain Foods

WHAT’S NEXT?

McCain Foods is committed to continuing to find ways to reduce their energy consumption. They’re currently participating in our Strategic Energy Manager Initiative, which offers funding and training for an onsite energy manager to develop a focused, strategic approach to energy reduction within their organization. Mike had this to say: 

“Having the opportunity to exchange ideas and entertain new concepts has been very helpful in growing our business while reducing energy consumption.” 

If you’re interested in making your industrial or large commercial facility more energy efficient, we’re here to help. We have the expertise to assist in identifying energy-saving opportunities and can provide financial incentives to help you implement your project. 

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EFFICIENCY MANITOBA MARKS FIVE YEARS OF ENERGY SAVINGS & IMPROVED AFFORDABILITY FOR MANITOBANS

2024/25 Annual Report shows increased spending on incentives, customer bill savings, greenhouse gas emissions reductions, and progress toward long-term energy targets

Following the tabling of reports in the Manitoba legislature, Efficiency Manitoba published its 2024/25 Annual Report, highlighting results from the organization’s fifth year of operations. The report highlights accomplishments, financial results, and independently verified energy savings for the 2024/25 fiscal year.

“I’m proud to acknowledge Efficiency Manitoba’s many achievements in 2024/25 and over the past five years since becoming operational in 2020,” said Dr. Jeannette Montufar-MacKay, Chair of Efficiency Manitoba’s Board of Directors. “As energy use in Manitoba continues to change and the shift toward electrification gains momentum, Manitobans are clearly recognizing the value of making energy-saving upgrades — from lowering energy bills and cutting greenhouse gas emissions to supporting green jobs and strengthening communities. Efficiency Manitoba’s financial incentives and expert guidance continue to make investing in energy efficiency affordable and accessible. Their results highlight the vital role the organization continues to play in shaping Manitoba’s clean energy future.”

“Our fifth year of operations was filled with progress, exciting initiatives, and meaningful outcomes for Manitobans. We’re extremely proud of the diverse portfolio of programs we’ve built and the strong results we’ve achieved — from helping families and businesses lower their energy bills to supporting green jobs and reducing emissions.”
— Colleen Kuruluk, Chief Executive Officer of Efficiency Manitoba.

Other achievements outlined in the 2024/25 Annual Report and Annual Report Supplement include the following:

  • As more homes and businesses participate in Efficiency Manitoba’s offers, the organization’s investment in energy efficiency continues to grow. In 2024/25, over $45 million in incentives were distributed — nearly tripling the $17 million provided in the first year of operations. This steady growth reflects strong participation in energy efficiency offers as well as a positive year-over-year trajectory of putting money back into the pockets of Manitobans.
  • Efficiency Manitoba helped Manitobans save $15.3 million on their energy bills in 2024/25, including electricity and natural gas savings as well as the federal carbon charge.
  • Participation in natural gas programs has resulted in greenhouse gas emission reductions of over 19,000 CO2 equivalent tonnes in 2024/25. This is equivalent to taking almost 6,000 passenger vehicles off the road for one year.
  • Work completed in 2024/25 supported the Province of Manitoba’s announcement and delivery of the Affordable Home Energy Program.
  • Customer satisfaction remains very high, with nearly 91% of customers indicating they were highly satisfied with their experience with Efficiency Manitoba when making energy efficiency upgrades.
  • Efficiency Manitoba was named one of Manitoba’s Top Employers for 2025, recognized for their excellence in workplace practices and culture.
  • Natural Resources Canada awarded Efficiency Manitoba with the 2024 ENERGY STAR® Canada Award for Utility/Program Administrator of the Year, acknowledging their leadership in promoting energy-efficient technologies and products.

As required by the Efficiency Manitoba Act, an independent assessor verified the corporation’s savings results. In 2024/25, electricity savings reached 80% of the legislated target of 1.5% of electric load, while natural gas savings reached 91% of the legislated target of 0.75% of volume. In addition to legislated energy savings targets, Efficiency Manitoba has been working with Manitoba Hydro on new initiatives designed to specifically reduce peak demand on the electric system. While many of those programs will be rolled out in 2025/26 and beyond, Efficiency Manitoba’s existing programs delivered over 51 megawatts of peak demand (capacity) savings in 2024/25.

“As we enter our sixth year, we’ll continue working closely with partners, communities, and industry to ensure all Manitobans benefit from energy efficiency,” added Kuruluk. “Our goal remains the same: to empower Manitobans to make choices that work for them while supporting the province’s commitment to ensure a clean energy future for generations to come. Through our efficiency-first approach, Efficiency Manitoba will be there every step of the way, helping Manitobans save energy and money.”

The 2024/25 Annual Report can be accessed at efficiencyMB.ca/document-library.

Release date: October 16, 2025

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SUSTAINABLE HOSTING TIPS

MAKE YOUR GATHERINGS COZY & ENERGY EFFICIENT

The fall and winter seasons are when hosting friends and family kicks into high gear — but big gatherings don’t need to result in big energy bills. Whether you’re planning an elaborate dinner or a casual potluck, it’s a good idea to keep your energy use in mind.  

Make your gatherings cozy and memorable while being energy efficient and sustainable with these simple tips. 

CREATE A COZY AMBIENCE

Nothing says “cozy” quite like ambient lighting! Dim the lights and set the mood with energy-efficient LEDs, or use string lights instead of overhead lighting. You can also use candles for a low-light, no-energy option; just be careful and keep an eye on them while they’re burning. 

TURN DOWN THE HEAT

With extra guests inside and the oven turned on, your home is bound to heat up. Instead of cracking a window, turn down your thermostat by a few degrees — it’ll give your heating system a break and keep your home and guests from getting too warm. 

USE SMALL APPLIANCES

If possible, make your meal using small appliances like an air fryer or slow cooker, both of which use less energy than an oven. 

UNPLUG & ENJOY YOUR COMPANY

When you have a house full of guests, the last thing on your mind should be checking your devices. Unplug devices like your phone, laptop, or gaming consoles, and fully enjoy your company. 

OPT FOR NATURAL DECOR

Go for a walk around your neighbourhood and find natural elements that you can use for your décor, such as pinecones and greenery. Your wallet and the landfill will thank you!

LET IT COOL

When packing up leftovers, let the food cool slightly before putting it in your fridge. If hot food goes directly in the fridge, the appliance has to work harder to bring the overall temperature back down. Stay safe though — don’t let food sit out for too long!

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CANADA GREENER HOMES AFFORDABILITY PROGRAM

CANADA LAUNCHES GREENER HOMES AFFORDABILITY PROGRAM IN MANITOBA

The Government of Canada has announced the launch of the Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program, a new initiative that will offer free home energy efficiency upgrades for low- to median-income households. Manitoba is the first jurisdiction in the country to implement the program, thanks to its strong background in energy efficiency and reliable delivery through Efficiency Manitoba. 

The program allows eligible Manitobans — including both homeowners and renters — to access free upgrades like insulation, air sealing, and heat pumps. Using a direct-installation model, participants don’t need to pay up front or handle loans. Instead, program experts will manage the logistics and customize upgrades to suit each home’s needs.

The program also removes the need for an income-based loan for ground source and air source heat pumps under the Affordable Home Energy Program, making these systems entirely free for eligible participants. This results in greater savings, enhanced comfort, and more affordable homes for Manitobans. 

Colleen Kuruluk, CEO of Efficiency Manitoba, welcomed the announcement: 

“Efficiency Manitoba is committed to helping Manitobans save energy, lower their energy bills, and make their homes more resilient through energy efficiency. This additional funding allows us to bolster our efforts to meet Manitobans where they are, enhance our energy efficiency offers, and make it easier for more Manitobans to benefit from our programs.”

Manitobans who qualify can benefit from:

  • free home upgrades like insulation, air sealing, and heat pumps; 
  • lower monthly energy bills; and 
  • more comfortable homes. 

Efficiency Manitoba will use this funding support to build on the success of two existing low- to median-income programs: the Energy Efficiency Assistance Program and the Métis Energy Efficiency Offers.

Read the full Government of Canada news release.

See our frequently asked questions for more information.

Release date: September 12, 2025

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TRANSFORMING HOMES, SAVING ENERGY

HOW OUR HOME ENERGY RETROFITS HELPED LINDSAY SAVE ENERGY & MONEY

For Lindsay Robinson, Efficiency Manitoba’s Strategic Initiatives Technical Lead, energy efficiency isn’t just a professional interest — it’s also personal. Even before he started his career at Efficiency Manitoba, Lindsay and his wife Suzanne decided to address their aging home’s inefficiencies. And they turned to our Home Energy Retrofits for guidance.

Their Winnipeg home, built in 1905, was charming but had room for improvement when it came to comfort and efficiency. “It was freezing on the main floor and boiling on the second floor,” Lindsay says. After a decade of owning the home and tolerating discomfort, inefficient systems, and springtime basement seepage, they decided it was time to act.

Lindsay and Suzanne’s first step was getting an EnerGuide evaluation. This gave them insights into how their home uses and loses energy, an energy rating, and a detailed roadmap of suggested upgrades.

Their home received a pre-retrofit rating of 197 GJ (gigajoules). By comparison, a typical new home of a similar size and layout uses only 114 GJ of energy. The renovation upgrade report Lindsay and Suzanne received from their energy advisor helped them create a retrofit plan to lower their energy use and improve their home’s efficiency.

A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH

Our Home Energy Retrofits, which help Manitobans make comprehensive whole-home energy efficiency upgrades, was a great fit for the extensive work Lindsay and Suzanne had planned. We provide rebates of $75 per gigajoule (GJ) saved, with bonuses for exceptional energy savings.

Before completing mechanical upgrades, Lindsay first made building envelope improvements including insulation, an improved air barrier system, and high-performance windows and doors. This is recommended to maximize the benefits of other upgrades — for example, these measures could help lower the cost of a heat pump system by reducing the size of required heating system.

Additional upgrades to their home included a heat pump water heater, LED lighting, and a new cold climate air source heat pump. This efficient heating and cooling solution maintains a steady indoor temperature throughout Winnipeg’s varying seasons.

The energy advisor returned to the home once all the upgrades were in place to deliver a post-retrofit EnerGuide home evaluation. The final result? A rating of 56 GJ relative to their starting point of 197 — a 70% reduction in energy use, and even better than a comparable typical new home!

Since completing the project in 2023, Lindsay has noticed significant improvements.

“The thermal comfort of the house is way, way better than it was prior.”
— Lindsay

Cold floors and temperature imbalances are now a thing of the past. Lindsay also said their energy bills have gone down significantly, even after adding the cost of charging an electric vehicle. Beyond energy savings and eliminating natural gas use, the retrofit improved the indoor comfort, enhanced their quality of life, and increased the property’s long-term value.

Ready to start your own energy efficiency upgrades? Come save with us! Learn more about our Home Energy Retrofits and other energy-saving offers.

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