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Author: Alyssa Heuchert

EFFICIENCY MANITOBA CONTINUES TO DELIVER ENERGY BILL SAVINGS FOR FAMILIES & BUSINESSES

2023/24 Annual Report shows increasing levels of energy savings achieved, including higher than planned natural gas savings; results provide significant environmental & affordability benefits

Following tabling of reports in the Manitoba legislature, Efficiency Manitoba published their 2023/24 annual results for their fourth year of operations. Reporting includes highlights, accomplishments, financial statements, and independently verified and evaluated 2023/24 energy savings information. 

As required by the Efficiency Manitoba Act, electricity and natural gas savings were tabulated and verified by an independent assessor. The results show that in the 2023/24 fiscal year, Efficiency Manitoba’s total electricity savings reached 84% of their legislated target of 1.5% of electric load, while natural gas savings exceeded target, reaching 119% of the legislated target of 0.75% of volume. These savings were realized under their annual budget, meaning results and savings were achieved even more cost effectively than planned. 

“Efficiency Manitoba’s 2023/24 fiscal year results show that prioritizing energy efficiency as a ‘first fuel’ is an effective way to meet a portion of Manitoba’s energy needs,” said Tracy Schmidt, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. “As we collectively carry out the objectives outlined in Manitoba’s Affordable Energy Plan, Efficiency Manitoba’s role is imperative in keeping energy bills low, improving affordability for families and businesses, and moving towards a clean, reliable energy future for our province. The electricity and natural gas savings achieved in 2023/24 indicate they are well positioned to deliver on these bold objectives to the benefit of all Manitobans.” 

Strong interest and participation in Efficiency Manitoba’s offers resulted in the legislated natural gas savings target being exceeded in 2023/24. Along with this came the additional benefit of significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to Manitoba’s climate change and net-zero commitments. In 2023/24, Efficiency Manitoba’s work with Manitobans saved 29,100 CO2 eq tonnes of emissions, achieving 113% of their annual target. To the end of the 2023/24 fiscal year, persisting cumulative greenhouse gas emissions reductions represent over 193,000 tonnes since 2020/21. 

“I would like to recognize Efficiency Manitoba’s many accomplishments in the 2023/24 fiscal year and since becoming operational in 2020,” said Dr. Jeannette Montufar-MacKay, Chair of Efficiency Manitoba’s Board of Directors. “We’re seeing significant interest in Efficiency Manitoba’s energy efficiency offers, which suggests Manitobans are truly seeing the value in making energy-saving upgrades and choices — both for themselves and for our future as a province. Efficiency Manitoba’s financial incentives and expert assistance are increasingly making it possible for all Manitobans to engage in energy affordability and climate action in a manner that’s meaningful to them, and this is made clear by these impressive annual results.” 

Other achievements outlined in the 2023/24 Annual Report and Annual Report Supplement include the following: 

  • Efficiency Manitoba’s investment in energy efficiency for Manitobans has been increasing every year. As more homes and businesses participate in energy efficiency offers, Efficiency Manitoba continues to provide more incentive dollars to participants. The 2023/24 fiscal year saw the greatest number of incentive dollars paid out to Manitobans since Efficiency Manitoba’s inception. Over $36 million in customer incentives was provided in 2023/24, more than double the $17 million in customer incentives paid out in Efficiency Manitoba’s commencement year. The result is a positive year-over-year trajectory of putting money back into the pockets of Manitobans. 
  • Efficiency Manitoba helped Manitobans save $15.9 million on their energy bills in 2023/24 (including both electric and natural gas savings as well as the federal carbon charge). 
  • Efficiency Manitoba’s customer satisfaction is very high, with nearly 90% of customers indicating they were highly satisfied with their experience with Efficiency Manitoba when making energy efficiency upgrades. 

“From exceeding our natural gas savings target to delivering more incentive dollars than ever before, there’s truly so much to be proud of when looking at how much Efficiency Manitoba has achieved with the participation of Manitoba households and businesses,” said Colleen Kuruluk, Chief Executive Officer of Efficiency Manitoba. “These results provide a stable foundation as Manitoba moves away from fossil fuels and into a more electricity-focused future. Efficiency Manitoba is ready to do our part in navigating the energy transition with diverse offers, financial assistance, and a clear vision of a more affordable and energy-efficient future for everyone who lives and works here.”  

The 2023/24 Annual Report and Annual Report Supplement can be accessed at efficiencyMB.ca/document-library. 

About Efficiency Manitoba

Efficiency Manitoba is Manitoba’s Crown corporation dedicated to energy efficiency. With legislated long-term energy savings targets to achieve, the organization has over 40 diverse offers available to help Manitobans save energy, money, and the environment.  

Release date: October 15, 2024

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AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

TIPS FOR USING & MAINTAINING YOUR AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP

Air source heat pumps are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly systems that provide heating and cooling in one unit. Plus, they can save you up to 30% on your electric heating and cooling costs! 

If you’ve installed an air source heat pump, it’s important to know how to use and maintain your system so it runs as efficiently as possible. This is especially important during shoulder seasons — that is, in the spring and fall — when temperatures can change drastically day-to-day (or even hour-to-hour!). 

Here are some ways to use your air source heat pump as efficiently as possible: 

SET IT & FORGET IT

Heat pumps work best and use less energy when they maintain a steady temperature. If you turn yours down when you’re away from home, it can end up using more energy than if you left it at the temperature you usually use. This is different than the advice you typically hear for natural gas heating systems, which suggests turning the temperature down during heating season when you’re away from home; air source heat pumps work harder to reach the set temperature than they do when you keep the system at a consistent temperature. It’s a good idea to pick a temperature that’s comfortable for you and avoid adjusting it when possible. 

AVOID “AUTO” MODE

In “auto” mode, air source heat pumps keep a steady temperature by switching between heating and cooling depending on the temperature outside (and in your home). This can cause your system to turn on cooling mode by accident during a sunny winter day or turn on the heat during a cool summer night, making it run more than necessary. To prevent your air conditioning from turning on by mistake in the winter, set your system to “heat mode” for the season. In the summer, do the opposite and set your system to “cool mode.” 

SCHEDULE REGULAR MAINTENACE & INSPECTIONS

Maintaining your air source heat pump ensures it works efficiently, saving you energy and money. You should schedule maintenance every year or two, but be sure to check your system’s user guide to know what’s best for your system. It’s also a good idea to book a maintenance appointment with your installer during the opposite season from when your system was installed. For example, if your system was installed in the summer, get your maintenance done in the winter. This ensures your system works efficiently for both seasons and keeps you comfortable whether it’s in heating or cooling mode. 

CHANGE OR REPLACE YOUR FILTERS

Heat pumps will run most efficiently when the dust filters are clean and clear of dust or debris. Changing or replacing your filters regularly improves the efficiency of your system and the indoor air quality of your home. How often you need to change or replace your filters depends on how often you use your heat pump and how much dust accumulates over time. However, changing them with the change in the season — about four times a year — makes the task easy to remember. 

KEEP YOUR VENTS & UNIT CLEAR

Check both the indoor vents and the outdoor unit often to make sure they have sufficient airflow. Keep the space around the vents clear of furniture or curtains and clear any snow or leaves from around the outdoor unit. This will ensure your unit has proper airflow and doesn’t need to work harder than necessary to circulate air through the system. 

Following these tips will help keep your air source heat pump running as effectively and efficiently as possible, helping to save you energy and money. 

If you don’t have an air source heat pump and are considering an upgrade, check out our air source heat pump rebate! 

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP REBATE

Check out the rest of our articles in our heat pump series.

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PROJECT FEATURE: HAZELVIEW PROPERTIES 

THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY UPGRADES ON APARTMENT COMMUNITIES 

Are you a property manager or owner of a multi-unit residential building? Discover how you can increase your building’s energy efficiency and reduce utility bills through our In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program.   

The In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program is a full-service program that enables apartments, townhouses, condominiums, assisted living facilities, and personal care homes across Manitoba to cut down on energy consumption and costs, benefiting both residents and the environment.  

Our program offers two levels of upgrades:   

  • Basic Upgrades include free A-line LED bulbs, bathroom and kitchen faucet aerators, showerheads, shower timers, and other energy saving items, installed at no cost.  
  • Premium Upgrades include all Basic Upgrades, plus incentives of up to $250 per suite which goes towards the installation of smart thermostats and advanced heat recovery ventilator (HRV) controls, by a certified electrician.  

THE PROJECT

Hazelview Properties pride themselves on achieving “Green Building” certification through a combination of BOMA BEST and the Canadian Certified Rental Building Program for all the buildings they manage. “At Hazelview, we aim for continuous improvement and one of our key sustainability pillars is Resource Efficiency which focuses on improving efficiency of our buildings and operations,” said Trevor McLeod, Sustainability Manager of Hazelview Properties. “By completing thorough energy audits at our properties, we know the majority of energy and water use consumed at a property is within the individual suites.”  

By participating in our In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program, two of their Winnipeg apartment buildings at 15 Arden Avenue and 33 Hargrave Street were able to improve their lighting while reducing energy and water consumption in their suites, helping them to achieve their sustainability goals.  

Through the In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program, the two buildings combined received 1,268 new LED bulbs, 189 bathroom faucet aerators, 298 kitchen faucet aerators, 401 showerheads, 360 shower timers, and 360 window weatherization kits, all at no cost.

THE SAVINGS

With their suite upgrades, not only will Hazelview Properties now have a reduced environmental footprint, but they can also expect to save over 165,000 kWh (kilowatt-hours) of electricity and over 65,000 m3 (cubic metres) in natural gas each year. This  translates to nearly $25,000 in estimated annual savings on their energy bills.  

“By implementing impactful programs like the In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program, we can make meaningful reductions in energy consumption. While we are still in the early phases of analyzing our utility data after installing the In-Suite Energy Efficiency Program, we can already see tangible results.”

— Trevor McLeod, Sustainability Manager of Hazelview Properties

THE PROCESS

Participating in the program is easy. You apply, and we take care of the rest!  

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

When they arrive, they’ll complete the Basic Upgrades and assess your eligibility for smart thermostat and advanced HRV control upgrades for each suite. For eligible suites who wish to proceed with a Premium Upgrade, they will arrange for a certified electrician to complete the installation, 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 your journey towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future! 

APPLY NOW
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PROJECT FEATURE: ADAM’S AUTOGLASS

HOW LIGHTING UPGRADES CAN BRIGHTEN BUSINESS & BRING IN SAVINGS

Our Business Lighting Program offers financial incentives for businesses who complete energy-efficient lighting upgrades in their buildings. Adam’s Autoglass, an automotive repair shop located in Roblin, upgraded their lighting with our help, resulting in a brighter space, reduced energy use, and monthly energy bill savings. 

THE PROJECT

Adam Smith, owner of Adam’s Autoglass, heard about our Business Lighting Program through a friend who just installed new lights at his shop. Adam started his own upgrade in March 2024, and the team at Boyce Electric upgraded his existing T12 fixtures with 56 new LED fixtures. “I absolutely love the new lights,” said Adam. “I needed to brighten my shop, and the new lights definitely do the job!”  

THE SAVINGS

With brand new LEDs, Adam’s Autoglass is expected to save 14,400 kWh of electricity every year, which translates to about $480 annually on their energy bills. On top of this, Adam received a $1,370 incentive toward the upgrades, which includes the additional 25% customer bonus we’re offering on lighting projects completed before March 31, 2025.  

THE PROCESS

Upgrading your building and increasing energy efficiency in your business is an easy process. Through myEM, business owners can apply on their own or have contractors apply on their behalf.  

After reviewing your application, our team will outline the incentive for your proposed upgrades before you commit to the project. This way you have plenty of time to discuss and review your budget.  

“The whole process was super simple,” said Adam. “My energy bill is about $40 less every month. Now the shop looks great, and I’m saving energy and money!” 

ARE YOU A BUSINESS OWNER?

Business owners or contractors can apply for financial incentives through the Business Lighting Program on our website. Check out our program guide for more information on our incentive rates and eligibility requirements. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
BUSINESS LIGHTING PROGRAM

ARE YOU A LIGHTING SUPPLIER OR CONTRACTOR?

If you’re a supplier or contractor, we highly encourage you to join our supplier network. You’ll be listed on our website as a registered Efficiency Manitoba supplier and can offer our programs to your customers. You’ll also have access to training opportunities and materials offered by our team of experts and can promote our energy efficiency programs in your advertising. The best part? It’s free to register and participate! 

JOIN OUR
SUPPLIER NETWORK
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BDC SMALL BUSINESS WEEK 2023

INTRODUCING OUR CONTEST WINNERS

In celebration of the 2023 BDC Small Business Week™, we hosted a contest on behalf of our Small Business Program and Indigenous Small Business program to give four small businesses in Manitoba the energy efficiency upgrades they needed for free. 

The four winners of this contest received a free Premium Upgrade and a $500 credit on their energy bill. 

The first winner we’re featuring is Rae’s Bistro, a local restaurant located in Winnipeg’s North Kildonan neighbourhood.  

RAE’S BISTRO

From their humble beginnings in 2018 to the vibrant dining experience offered today, the owners of Rae’s Bistro, Danny Van Lancker and Jillian Flynn, have always ensured that social and environmental responsibility are top of mind. Rae’s Bistro began as a small local food establishment, relying on a limited set of cutlery and upcycled furniture. Fast forward to today, Rae’s Bistro boasts an elegant selection of local beer, fine wine, craft cocktails, and homemade comfort food, all in an upbeat environment.  

Danny and Jillian were looking to make even more improvements to their restaurant. By participating in our 2023 Small Business Week contest, Rae’s Bistro was able to make energy efficiency upgrades to their lighting systems at no cost. As one of the winners of the contest, they upgraded 40 fluorescent lamps to energy-efficient LED lamps, and we covered all project costs. They can expect to save nearly 1,200 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity every year.  

We covered 100% of the labour and material costs as part of the contest prize and awarded Rae’s Bistro with a $500 energy bill credit. Now their team can continue to offer a delightful dining experience, all while saving energy.  

“Rae’s Bistro is our dream; we have put everything we own financially and emotionally into it. This spring we started the next phase of our redesign and renovation, and the already completed lighting upgrades will be a huge asset.” 

— Danny, Co-owner of Rae’s Bistro

ESDALE PRINTING COMPANY

Esdale Printing Company is a commercial printing facility that’s been serving Winnipeg since 1935. Operating out of the St Boniface Industrial Park, they offer office printing, digital services, signage, display prints, and more. The company prides itself on being a leader in the sustainable printing industry within Manitoba. 

“Esdale is very focused on being the most environmental printer in Manitoba,” said Darren Hughesman, President of Esdale Printing. “We use only certified FSC papers and are one of only a few FSC certified printers in Manitoba.”  

As one of the winners of our 2023 Small Business Week contest, Esdale Printing was awarded a $500 energy bill credit, and we covered 100% of the labour and material costs of their facility’s energy-efficient lighting upgrade. We helped them make significant upgrades to their lighting systems which included new, energy-efficient LED linear lamps, occupancy sensors, and dimmers. These changes will result in them saving approximately 10,000 kWh of electricity each year and $500 annually on their energy bills.

Thanks to Efficiency Manitoba’s Small Business Program, Esdale Printing can combat rising costs due to inflation while continuing to provide exceptional printing services in a facility that now uses less energy.   

“With the help of Efficiency Manitoba, we were able to reduce costs and become more energy efficient at the same time.” 

— Darren Hughesman, President of Esdale Printing

ARE YOU A SMALL BUSINESS OWNER?

If you’re the owner of a small business and looking to make energy efficiency upgrades, we can help! Our small business programs are full-service solutions to help your business become more energy efficient. We’ll install free basic energy-saving products and complete a free lighting and pitched roof attic insulation assessment of your business to see if you could benefit from a Premium Upgrade. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM
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LOOKING TO SAVE ENERGY & MONEY?

NO SWEAT!

Keep cool with programs and rebates that can help you save energy and money when you invest in energy efficiency upgrades for your home and business. 

We’re here to be your number one resource for energy efficiency tips and advice so you can start saving immediately. Our articles are full of tips to help you implement small changes in your daily routine that can make a big impact when it comes to saving energy (and money!).  

Before planning your next energy efficiency upgrade, check Efficiency Manitoba first.

PROGRAMS & REBATES FOR COOL SUMMER SAVINGS

Don’t sweat your energy bill this summer. We have programs and rebates for upgrades that are best tackled when the weather is warm and will help keep you comfortable all year long. 

Windows & doors

Get a $100 rebate on each eligible window and door you install in your home, up to $2,000, and save…

Solar PV systems

Solar PV systems provide energy to your home and business in a sustainable manner. They can help reduce your monthly…

Solar panels in a field

Heat pump rebates

Ground source heat pumps are efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly. They can reduce your current electric heating costs by up…

Heat pump being installed

Insulation

Save on insulation costs with our home insulation offers for all Manitobans Heating your home can account for almost 60%…

Fiberglass insulation in interior wall

Income based offers

If you’re living with a limited income, we can help you lower your monthly energy bills and make your home…

Couple talking to expert in kitchen

Home energy retrofits

COMPREHENSIVE HOME RENOVATION PROJECTS WITH DEEP ENERGY SAVINGS If you’re planning an extensive home renovation that will significantly reduce your…

Exterior of house under construction

Looking for more information? Take a peek at our summer series!

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PROJECT FEATURE: JQ BUILT READY-TO-MOVE CHILDCARE FACILITIES

HOW OUR NEW BUILDINGS PROGRAM IS ASSISTING WITH THE CONSTRUCTION OF 22 CHILDCARE FACILITIES ACROSS MANITOBA 

We’re proud to support the planning and development of 22 energy-efficient ready-to-move childcare facilities across Manitoba through our New Buildings Program!  

Our New Buildings Program provides incentives for the design and construction of new energy-efficient buildings that are modelled to be at least 5% more efficient than the Manitoba Energy Code for Buildings (MECB). The program also offers an Energy Modelling Assistance Incentive which allows participants to determine the savings impact of each energy efficiency feature on the building early in the design process. This helps in the selection of materials, technologies, and processes that will bring the most value to each project. 

THE PROJECT

JQ Built, an innovative municipal participation corporation owned by 12 municipalities, has teamed up with local experts to enable the design and delivery of new childcare facilities across Manitoba.  

The JQ Built approach is focused on collaboration and teamwork, the childcare facilities were designed once and replicated. This approach maximizes construction efficiencies, utilizes economies of scale, expedites timelines and allows for continuous improvement. The JQ Built team has worked closely with the municipalities, facilitating access to Efficiency Manitoba’s offers, that provide long-term benefits to communities. 

This video by JQ Built provides more detail about the project and showcases its many benefits. 

“This is a really important and unique project; the municipalities are collaborating to create better buildings and reduce construction costs as well as servicing costs. By taking advantage of everything Efficiency Manitoba has to offer and ensuring each childcare center has energy modeling, we are not only creating a better environment for the children, but the JQ Built team approach is saving community taxpayers money over the short term and over the long term.” 

— Colleen Sklar, CEO of JohnQ Public / JQ Built

The project is being implemented in two phases. The first phase included the planning and construction of nine childcare facilities in rural Manitoba.  

All nine projects have successfully completed the Energy Modelling Assistance Incentive phase and are enrolled in our New Buildings Program Performance Path. They received a $5,000 incentive to offset the cost of energy modelling services during the project’s design phase; they can expect to receive an additional $5,000 towards energy modelling services upon project completion. All projects are designed to be at least 20% more efficient than the minimum requirements of the MECB. 

The project’s second phase will include the design and construction of 16 additional childcare facilities in rural Manitoba.  

The energy efficiency features incorporated into these buildings include: 

  • improved building envelope; 
  • high-performance windows; 
  • efficient mechanical systems; and 
  • ventilation air heat recovery. 

“The Efficiency Manitoba New Buildings Program plays a crucial role in assisting our clients with the design and construction of energy-efficient buildings throughout the province. The combination of energy modelling aligned with Energy Code compliance and commissioning to help ensure a properly functioning building is a great package. This comprehensive program enables design teams to select appropriate energy-efficient upgrades and results in significant energy savings for years to come for the owner’s new buildings, all coupled with valuable incentives and technical resources from Efficiency Manitoba.” 

— Kelly Winder, Principal, Energy Modelling, Crosier Kilgour

THE SAVINGS

Each facility is estimated to save an impressive 37,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity every year, which translates into estimated annual savings of approximately $1,850 on their energy bills.  

As each facility’s building energy performance is estimated to be 20% more efficient than the minimum requirements of the MECB, they’re expected to be eligible for the maximum incentive of $2 per square foot offered through our New Buildings Program Performance Path. Most facilities have a total conditioned floor area of approximately 5,800 square feet, which could make them each eligible for an estimated incentive of $11,600 based on the anticipated performance level. 

Because of their energy efficiency upgrades, each childcare facility will not only receive incentives through our New Buildings Program to help offset the costs, but they’ll save energy and money on their energy bills for years to come. The improved building envelope will lead to less condensation and fewer drafts, creating a more comfortable space for both childcare employees and students. The building owners will also benefit from increased building value, improved aesthetics, and lower operational costs.  

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

To qualify for the New Buildings Program, the project must be new construction or an addition and follow the MECB. You need to apply early in the design phase.  

Projects can receive incentives through two parts of the program: the Energy Modelling Assistance Incentive and the Performance Path.  

For the Energy Modelling Assistance Incentive, email your application to us before the project tender date. Once your project is approved, work with an energy modeller to complete the energy modelling report and send it to us along with the invoice for modelling services. We’ll provide feedback on the project and process your incentive.  

For the Performance Path, email your application to us no later than six months after receiving a building permit; however, the earlier the better to ensure all project team members are aware of the program requirements. Once it’s approved, work with your project team to complete and submit the program deliverables outlined in the program guide as your project progresses. We’ll review the deliverables, provide feedback, and process the incentive when your project is complete.  

You can find more information and the application forms on the program web page. We’re here to offer technical assistance and guidance throughout the entire process. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
NEW BUILDINGS PROGRAM
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AIR SOURCE VS. GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

LOWER YOUR ELECTRIC HEATING COSTS

Your heating system is the single largest user of energy at home; it can account for almost 60% of your energy bill! To lower your electric heating costs, consider an energy-efficient heat pump. They transfer heat energy from the air or the ground to warm or cool your home. We also offer rebates on both air source and ground source heat pumps to make your upgrade more affordable.

AIR SOURCE VS. GROUND SOURCE
HEAT PUMPS

AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

Air heat pumps beside house

A compressor circulates refrigerant that absorbs and releases heat between the indoor and outdoor equipment. In winter, heat is pulled from the outdoor air to warm your home. In summer, the system pulls heat from within the home and transfers it to the outdoor air.

BENEFITS:

  • Provides heating and cooling
  • Easy to retrofit with your existing infrastructure
  • Hybrid systems can reduce greenhouse gas emissions
  • Reduces your electric heating costs by up to 30%

GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

Heat pump being installed

An electric pump circulates fluid through a loop of pipes buried underground. In heating mode, the fluid absorbs heat from the ground, which stays at a stable temperature. Heat is extracted from the fluid and delivered into your home. In summer, heat is redistributed back into the ground.

BENEFITS:

  • Provides heating and cooling
  • Low carbon heating solution
  • Ideal for large lots and open spaces
  • Reduces your electric heating costs by up to 60%

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

Before you upgrade your heating system, it’s a good idea to first improve the insulation, windows, and airtightness of your home. These measures are often more cost effective, reduce your energy bills, and could help lower the cost of your heat pump system by reducing the size of heating system that you need.

Once you’re ready to upgrade your heating system, we recommend getting quotes from several of our registered contractors. Be sure to send your application for approval before purchasing your heat pump or starting any work.

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LEVEL UP YOUR BASEMENT’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY

ENERGY-SAVING TIPS

 

Your basement may be at the bottom of your list when considering energy efficiency upgrades. Still, it’s a part of your home where you can create a comfortable living space while achieving significant energy savings.

BASEMENT UPGRADES

If you have an inefficient heating system or your basement is uninsulated, it’s likely you’re paying much more than you need to on your energy bills. The good news? We can help make these upgrades more affordable.

Upgrading the insulation in your basement will keep the heat out during warmer months and in during cooler months. Having proper insulation means you’ll use less energy to cool and heat your home, lower your energy bills, and have a more comfortable living space. Through our Home Insulation Rebate, you can get money back on your material costs when you insulate your foundation walls. Income-qualifying households may also be eligible for free insulation upgrades in their basement through our Energy Efficiency Assistance Program or Métis Energy Efficiency Offers.

Some homes still have standard- and mid-efficiency natural gas furnaces or standard-efficiency boilers. You may qualify for a high-efficiency natural gas furnace or boiler upgrade through our income-based Energy Efficiency Assistance Program or Métis Energy Efficiency Offers.

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EFFICIENCY MANITOBA WINS 2024 ENERGY STAR® CANADA AWARD FOR PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR

Crown corporation dedicated to energy efficiency recognized for significant achievements in helping Manitobans save energy in 2023

Efficiency Manitoba is pleased to accept the 2024 ENERGY STAR Canada Award for Utility/Program Administrator of the Year from Natural Resources Canada. This prestigious award recognizes the Crown corporation’s leadership and innovation in promoting energy-efficient technologies and products through the administration of their diverse, accessible energy efficiency offers.

Each year, the ENERGY STAR Canada Awards acknowledge businesses and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability by issuing awards in several categories. The Utility/Program Administrator of the Year award recognizes an organization that has shown excellence in promoting and encouraging uptake in the installation of ENERGY STAR certified products.

Efficiency Manitoba accepted their award at a ceremony held at Natural Resources Canada, Camsell Hall, 580 Booth St, Ottawa, Ontario on June 4, 2024.

“I would like to congratulate the Efficiency Manitoba team for receiving ENERGY STAR Canada’s Utility/Program Administrator of the Year award,” said Tracy Schmidt, Minister of Environment and Climate Change. “Efficiency Manitoba plays a vital role in our province’s energy future and progress towards sustainability. ENERGY STAR Canada’s recognition of Efficiency Manitoba’s dedication to helping Manitobans make energy-efficient purchasing decisions shows that they are truly making a difference and forging a path to a better tomorrow. Our government is so proud of this work and this recognition.”

A variety of noteworthy accomplishments led to Efficiency Manitoba winning in its category. Some of their achievements in 2023 include:

  • offering six programs for residential and commercial customers to upgrade to ENERGY STAR certified products (among an extensive suite of energy efficiency offers serving all customer segments);
  • achieving a milestone of rebating one million products, nearly 90% of which were ENERGY STAR certified products, through their Instant Rebate offer;
  • providing instant rebates on over 80,000 ENERGY STAR certified LED specialty bulbs, fixtures, and smart thermostats in 2023 alone; and
  • promoting the installation of nearly 3,000 ENERGY STAR certified windows and doors.

“Receiving the Utility/Program Administrator of the Year Award from ENERGY STAR Canada is an honour that reinforces our commitment to maximizing energy savings for homes and businesses throughout the province,” said Colleen Kuruluk, CEO of Efficiency Manitoba. “On behalf of Efficiency Manitoba, I’d like to thank Natural Resources Canada and ENERGY STAR Canada for recognizing our achievements and the importance of the work we do for all Manitobans.”

ENERGY STAR is an internationally recognized program that labels the most energy-efficient products on the market; certified products are third-party tested and in the top 15% to 30% of their class for energy performance. Efficiency Manitoba considers ENERGY STAR certification when designing and implementing energy efficiency offers, meaning Manitobans can more easily recognize and value the benefits of energy-efficient products and see reductions in their energy bills. Promoting the purchase and installation of ENERGY STAR certified products leads to greater energy savings when completing upgrades in homes and businesses, which helps Efficiency Manitoba achieve its long-term electricity and natural gas savings targets.

“Congratulations to Efficiency Manitoba on being awarded a 2024 ENERGY STAR Canada award. Your efforts are driving innovation in energy efficiency, helping Canadians to save money on energy bills and contributing to the fight against climate change. The Government of Canada is very pleased to support energy efficiency solutions on our collective path to a sustainable and prosperous future.” The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

This is Efficiency Manitoba’s second ENERGY STAR Canada award, having won Promotional Campaign of the Year in 2022 for a post-sale rebate campaign on ENERGY STAR certified appliances and smart thermostats.

About Efficiency Manitoba

Efficiency Manitoba is Manitoba’s Crown corporation dedicated to energy efficiency. With legislated long-term energy savings targets to achieve, the organization has over 40 diverse offers available to help Manitobans save energy, money, and the environment.

Release date: June 19, 2024

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