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Author: Alyssa Heuchert

Efficiency Manitoba expands income eligibility for its Energy Efficiency Assistance Program

Approximately 40% of Manitoba households could qualify for free and significantly subsidized energy efficiency upgrades

Efficiency Manitoba has revised its income thresholds to ensure more Manitoba households are eligible to access free and significantly subsidized energy efficiency upgrades through its income-based Energy Efficiency Assistance Program. The program assists homeowners and tenants in implementing energy efficiency upgrades to their homes to reduce their monthly energy bills, while also helping improve the comfort of their homes. 

“This program is an important part of our government’s commitment to helping Manitobans save money on their energy bills while reducing our province’s carbon footprint,” said Kevin Klein, Minister of Environment and Climate and the Minister responsible for Efficiency Manitoba. “By supporting energy-efficient home upgrades and renovations, this program is making a real difference in the lives of families and individuals across the province. With this change, more people can enjoy the benefits of an energy-efficient home, while also playing a role in creating a more sustainable future for all Manitobans.”  

Program eligibility is based on low-income cut-off (LICO) values for urban centers with more than 500,000 residents, as determined by Statistics Canada. Efficiency Manitoba has increased these thresholds from LICO 125 (LICO plus 25%) to LICO 145 (LICO plus 45%) making more Manitobans eligible. This change means approximately 40% or 192,000 low- to moderate-income households in Manitoba will now qualify. The increase will see a two-person household now qualify with a total household income (before deductions) of $53,035 or less, while a four-person household will qualify with a total household income of $79,161 or less. 

“Energy efficiency and the benefits it provides should be accessible for everyone. We want to ensure this particular program, one of over 40 programs and offers through Efficiency Manitoba, is available to as many households as possible,” said Colleen Kuruluk, CEO of Efficiency Manitoba. “Expanding the eligibility of our Energy Efficiency Assistance Program will allow more people to participate in this program and benefit from the improved comfort of their homes, while also importantly saving on their monthly energy bills.”  

Efficiency Manitoba’s Energy Efficiency Assistance Program helps to minimize the financial cost to households by providing free or significantly subsidized energy efficiency upgrades while also simplifying the process for customers through a turn-key approach. All participants receive a free home energy check-up from an energy advisor and have free energy-saving devices installed in their homes. Homeowners and renters may also be eligible for a free insulation upgrade or a subsidized natural gas furnace or boiler upgrade; Efficiency Manitoba will connect the customer with a registered contractor to complete the upgrade. 

Increasing access to energy efficiency through door-to-door outreach 

Efficiency Manitoba is dedicated to working with Manitobans at a community level to ensure homeowners and renters are aware of the Energy Efficiency Assistance Program and can easily participate. 

For example, Chalmers Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation, located in the Elmwood neighbourhood in Winnipeg, works with residents, businesses, and service providers in the area to plan and execute initiatives that benefit the community. Efficiency Manitoba provides funding to the organization to hire an Energy Efficiency Advocate as a strategy to increase program participation. Each week from spring to fall, this advocate canvasses particular neighbourhood blocks and engages with community members, encouraging residents to take part in the program and helping to address barriers to participation. 

Residents living on these blocks and within the community are pre-qualified to participate without having to provide income verification documents, making the process even simpler. This turn-key approach helps participants every step of the way in becoming more energy efficient. 

“We’ve worked with many residents in our community to spread the word and help them participate in this valuable program,” said Leilani Esteban, Executive Director of the Chalmers Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation. “By having someone at the community level, talking to people one-on-one, we are able to meet people where they’re at and share information on how they can save money, use less energy, and reduce their carbon footprint.”  

The Consumers’ Association of Canada (CAC) Manitoba applauded the change to the income threshold. The organization informs and educates consumers on marketplace issues and advocates on behalf of consumers with government and industry. Jacqueline Wasney is a board member of the CAC Manitoba and sits on an Advisory Committee for Efficiency Manitoba as an advocate for the consumer interest.  

“A lot of what we’re hearing is that people want to find solutions to help lower their bills for the long term,” said Wasney. “Efficiency Manitoba is doing good work to help make home efficiency upgrades more affordable for more Manitobans. Investing in energy efficiency in our homes results in long-term savings, but they also mean people and families can enjoy much more comfortable homes and a little extra money in their pockets.”  

For more information about Efficiency Manitoba’s Energy Efficiency Assistance Program, visit efficiencyMB.ca/EEAP. 

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 programs and offers available to help Manitobans save energy, money, and the environment.  

Release date: June 5, 2023

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PROJECT FEATURE: FLINTY’S BOARDWALK

SPECTACULAR SAVINGS THROUGH OUR BUSINESS LIGHTING PROGRAM

Our Business Lighting Program provides financial incentives and expert advice to assist in making energy-efficient lighting upgrades in your business or building — and that’s exactly how we helped Flinty’s Boardwalk save energy and money! 

Flinty’s Boardwalk, managed by the Flinty Committee, stretches 2.2 kilometres around the idyllic shores of Ross Lake in Flin Flon. In the mid-1990s, the committee was tasked to highlight its already beautiful features and make this a welcoming attraction for tourists, creating the Flinty Boardwalk that can be enjoyed year-round. 

THE PROJECT

Back in the fall of 2010, having received 29 poles from Manitoba Hydro, the committee was able to illuminate a one-kilometre section of the trail using 250-watt flood lights. Recently, they were looking for ways to reduce their energy consumption by upgrading the lighting that runs along the boardwalk. In their search, they came across our Business Lighting Program and we were ready to help!  

THE SAVINGS

Through our program, we provided the Flinty Committee with financial incentives to cover some of the costs of the upgrade. Their contractor, Beech Electric, replaced all the old pole lights along the boardwalk from high pressure sodium to LEDs. Because of this upgrade, they’ll realize a total of 52,000 kWh (kilowatt-hours) in annual electricity savings and will save $2,600 on their energy bills each year! We were also able to provide them with over $3,800 in incentives, which includes the 25% customer bonus that we’re currently providing on all lighting projects. 

“The overall cost of the project was significantly reduced through Efficiency Manitoba’s program. Feedback we’ve had from nocturnal ramblers since installing the new lights have been universally positive — some noting that the lights and their reflections in the lake look like a string of pearls!”

Dave Price
Chairman, Flinty Committee

THE PROCESS

Applying for incentives is easy with our online application system, myEM. Business and building owners can apply on their own, or lighting suppliers or contractors can apply on their behalf. 

All you need to do is log in and fill out your project information, we review the project details and send you your approval. Once you receive our approval, you can get started with your installation. 

When your lighting upgrade is completed, upload your invoice to myEM. We’ll process your application and send you your cheque! 

ARE YOU A BUILDING OWNER?

Business and building owners or their lighting suppliers or contractors can apply for financial incentives through the Business Lighting Program on our website. Check out our program guide to see our incentive rates and eligibility requirements.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
BUSINESS LIGHTING PROGRAM

ARE YOU A LIGHTING 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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MAY LONG WEEKEND

UNPLUG & EXPLORE MANITOBA

May long weekend is always a welcome retreat! What better way to enjoy our province than by getting outside and soaking up some vitamin D? Here are four adventures you can take to unplug and explore Manitoba. 

JOURNEY THROUGH SAND DUNES

Head to Spruce Woods Provincial Park and visit the Spirit Sands — Manitoba’s only desert and our largest sand dunes. Hike one of the self-guided trails, ranging from two to 10 kilometres, or catch a ride on a horse-drawn wagon. This area is home to plants and animals you can find only in Manitoba. The huge dunes soak up the heat, so visit in the spring or early morning during the summer.

ENJOY THE SHORES OF LAKE WINNIPEG

Whatever you’re looking for, you can find it in Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park. Relax at the spa for a day, read on the beach, learn about Icelandic history, play a round of golf, or hike to the Gull Harbour Lighthouse. If you want a longer vacation, book a hotel room or campsite.  

GET YOUR NATURE FIX IN THE BIG CITY

Spend time at FortWhyte Alive in Winnipeg for a few hours or a full day. Watch for wildlife on the trails or get on the water by renting a canoe. For a one-of-a-kind experience, go on a bison safari this summer. You’ll board a bus to get within a few metres of these animals and learn how they’ve shaped Canada’s history.  

HEAR THE RUMBLING WATERFALLS

Pisew Falls Provincial Park is 45 minutes south of Thompson and home to the second-highest waterfall in Manitoba.  Here, the Grass River drops 13 metres, which you can watch from the observation platform. A 0.5-kilometre trail takes you to a bridge over the river. Experienced hikers can continue on the 22-kilometre return trail to Kwasitchewan Falls, the highest waterfall in the province at 14 metres. 

Manitoba is truly a beautiful province and has so much to offer. Be sure to make the most of it this season and check out Travel Manitoba for more summer adventure ideas.

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SOLAR PV SYSTEMS

THE BASICS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Manitobans are increasingly interested in using solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to power their homes and businesses — and it’s no wonder why! When it comes to renewable energy sources, the sun is high on the list. While our province is already a leader in creating clean and renewable energy through hydroelectric power, harnessing the sun’s rays through solar PV creates an additional clean energy source. 

But how do solar PV systems work and what are the benefits for homeowners and businesses? What are some important things to keep in mind before making the investment? And do we offer rebates? Spoiler: the answer is yes! 

What is solar energy?

First, we need to define solar energy. Solar energy captures light from the sun and converts it into forms of energy, like electricity and heat, that we can use. There are two methods of solar energy generation commonly seen in homes and commercial buildings: solar PV and solar thermal. Both methods use the sun’s energy to create usable energy. However, solar PV systems use the energy to generate electricity, whereas solar thermal systems use the energy to heat air or water. This article focuses on solar PV systems for generating electricity. 

How solar PV systems work

Solar PV systems are the most used solar technology. During the day, solar PV panels produce direct current (DC) power from the sun’s rays, which is fed through an inverter to create alternating current (AC) power. AC is the most common type of electrical current used in our homes. 

The benefits of solar PV

There can be many benefits to installing a solar PV system: 

  • It provides energy to your home or business in a sustainable manner. 
  • It helps reduce your monthly energy bills. 
  • It mitigates the impact of future rate increases. 
  • It can increase the value of your property. 

Connecting to the grid

Most of Manitoba’s solar PV systems are grid-connected. In a grid-connected system, any surplus electricity generated by your solar PV system that remains unused in your home or business travels back to Manitoba Hydro’s electrical grid. Connection to the grid also ensures you have a reliable supply of electricity when your solar PV system isn’t generating enough for your needs. Grid-connected solar PV systems can significantly reduce the amount of electricity you buy during daylight hours depending on a number of factors. 

Panel mounting options

There are two main ways to mount your panels: rooftop or ground mounted. 

Rooftop system installation mainly happens in urban areas where there’s not enough space for a ground system. The size of the roof may limit the size of the system, and the roof slope can make it difficult to optimize production of solar energy. However, it can still be a good option and produce a desirable amount of electricity depending on the orientation and inclination of the roof. 

Ground systems are more common on large properties with lots of space. Fixed panel systems facing due south at 40° to 50° inclination achieve better energy output, which is easier to do with a ground system. A rooftop system is often limited to the direction the roof faces (which is often not due south) and the roof slope (which is usually lower than the ideal inclination). Because they’re more accessible, fixed ground systems are generally easier to maintain and keep clean and clear of snow compared to rooftop systems. 

Install a solar PV system & get a rebate

Like any significant investment, research and understanding is key. When it comes to the investment and decision on a solar PV system, we have several articles on our website to help with your research. 

If you’ve determined that installing a solar PV system is for you, we can help. We offer rebates on solar PV systems for homes and businesses connected to Manitoba Hydro’s grid. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT
OUR SOLAR REBATE

Check out the rest of the articles in our solar series.

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EMPLOYEE FEATURE

MEET BRADEN!

What’s your role at Efficiency Manitoba?

As the Indigenous Programs Analyst, I provide research and support for all our Indigenous programs to help enhance sustainability efforts in Manitoba. The programs I work on include our Métis Energy Efficiency Offers, First Nation Insulation and Direct Install, and more. 

What do you like best about working in energy efficiency?

I have always been fascinated with renewables and clean energy. While working on my university degree, I published a paper on the connection between renewables, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous principles of land preservation. Working for Efficiency Manitoba allows me to utilize my studies and passions to support programs aligned with Indigenous principles of stewardship, as well as contribute to the preservation of Indigenous natural resources. 

What’s an accomplishment you’re most proud of?

Helping to launch our Métis Energy Efficiency Offers as well as building a strong relationship with the Manitoba Métis Federation. 

Can you tell us about a project you’re working on right now that you think Manitobans should know about?

One of the main projects I work on is the First Nation Insulation and Direct Install program. This program provides free energy-saving items to homes in First Nation communities, helping them save on their energy bills. We work closely with each First Nation and provide the items and support to have local labour install these products. 

Energy efficiency and sustainable technology are growing industries in Manitoba. I think it’s important for Efficiency Manitoba to work with Indigenous Peoples in implementing our programs as they have been environmental stewards of their land for many years.

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Rising home renovation costs means it’s best to check Efficiency Manitoba first for savings

Efficiency Manitoba’s vast supplier network can help Manitobans prepare for another busy home renovation season

One thing that came out of the pandemic was a surge in Manitobans investing to improve their homes. With inflation and rising interest rates making those projects more expensive, Efficiency Manitoba is spreading the word and reminding people to check with them first to see if they qualify for rebates.

“Efficiency Manitoba is doing important work to help Manitobans save money when they invest in energy-saving renovations,” said Kevin Klein, Minister of Environment and Climate and the Minister responsible for Efficiency Manitoba. “Their programs and rebates improve the accessibility and affordability of energy efficiency projects immediately while also providing long term energy and bill savings benefits. Ensuring homes and businesses in our province can access energy efficiency is vital for both economic and environmental sustainability.”

The Crown corporation has produced new videos to explain some of their programs including their Home Insulation Rebate, the Energy Efficiency Assistance Program for income qualifying households, and the Small Business Program which offers a variety of energy efficiency upgrades for free or at reduced costs. These videos can be viewed on Efficiency Manitoba’s YouTube channel.

“We understand costs for materials and labour for renovation projects are continually rising. It’s important for us to make information about our programs readily available to Manitobans so they know about the many ways we can help them save money on energy efficiency upgrades,” said Colleen Kuruluk, CEO, Efficiency Manitoba. “These kinds of upgrades pay for themselves through lower energy bills and create much more comfortable spaces in homes and businesses. Upgrades that help Manitobans save natural gas also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, creating a healthier environment that we all will leave for our children and grandchildren.”

Retailers, tradespeople, and contractors are preparing for the renovation season

Home improvement retailers are expecting a busy year in 2023, according to Jason Yates, President of McMunn & Yates Building Supplies. Inflation is a top concern, which means retailers like Yates are happy to steer their customers to Efficiency Manitoba’s rebates.

“McMunn & Yates Building Supplies is proud to be a registered Efficiency Manitoba supplier,” said Yates. “The spring building season is underway and we look forward to helping our customers utilize the wide range of programs from Efficiency Manitoba to save energy and money on their renovation projects.”

It also pays to get started early on any home renovation project, especially as contractors and tradespeople remain in high demand.

“As people gear up to start their summer home renovation projects, it’s a great opportunity to incorporate energy saving solutions,” said Lanny McInnes, President and CEO, Manitoba Home Builders Association. “We expect another very busy renovation season and the demand for professional renovators and contractors continues to be extremely high, so we encourage homeowners to get started with their project planning as early as possible.”

McInnes added that many contractors and home improvement retailers will be familiar with and registered to offer Efficiency Manitoba’s programs and can help customers apply for rebates. To find a supplier registered with Efficiency Manitoba, visit efficiencyMB.ca/find-a-supplier.

For more information about Efficiency Manitoba’s rebates and offers, visit efficiencyMB.ca.

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 programs and offers available to help Manitobans save energy, money, and the environment. Efficiency Manitoba is contributing to reconciliation through ongoing, collaborative, and mutually respectful dialogue directly with Indigenous communities and groups along with ongoing engagement, action, and support leading to energy and bill savings.

Release date: May 3, 2023

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PROJECT FEATURE: CRYSTAL CITY ARENA

LEARN HOW CRYSTAL CITY ARENA GOT BRIGHTER THROUGH OUR BUSINESS LIGHTING PROGRAM

Our Business Lighting Program helps businesses make energy-efficient lighting upgrades in their buildings by providing financial incentives and expert advice — and Crystal City Arena is brighter than ever after participating. 

THE PROJECT

Crystal City Arena, named after their city located in southwest Manitoba, is the community’s one and only indoor skating rink. When they were considering upgrading their lighting, they knew our Business Lighting Program could help them implement a cost-effective and energy-efficient upgrade. 

Through our program, they upgraded the old metal halide lighting inside the rink to new, energy-efficient LEDs. Not only can you tell an immediate difference in the light, but the savings are bright too! 

THE SAVINGS

By upgrading to LED lighting throughout the interior of their arena, Crystal City Arena will realize a total of 25,000 kWh (kilowatt-hours) in annual electricity savings and save $1,250 on their energy bills each year. And the benefits don’t end there — they also received the 25% customer bonus we’re currently providing on all lighting projects. In total, we were able to provide them with over $5,000 in incentives!  

THE PROCESS

Applying for incentives is easy with our online application system, myEM. Your lighting supplier or contractor can apply on your behalf, or building owners can apply on their own, which is exactly what Dean Buchanan, President of Crystal City Arena, did.  

“The overall application and approval process was streamlined and fast. We’re very pleased with the program and the lighting in the arena has improved significantly.”

Dean Buchanan
President, Crystal City Arena

Once their application was approved, Olson Electric completed the installation, and we mailed out their incentive cheque. 

ARE YOU A BUILDING OWNER?

Building owners or their lighting suppliers or contractors can apply for financial incentives through the Business Lighting Program on our website. Check out our program guide to see our incentive rates and eligibility requirements.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR
BUSINESS LIGHTING PROGRAM

ARE YOU A LIGHTING 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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MANITOBA EVENTS

DISCOVER WHAT MANITOBA HAS TO OFFER THIS SEASON

We always advocate for taking time to explore our province. Whether that’s going for a hike in a provincial park or going on a daily walk through your community, time spent outdoors is great for mental health and overall wellbeing. Better yet, it’s a great opportunity to unplug and reduce your energy use at home. It also happens to be the season where there’s an abundance of outdoor events and attractions throughout Manitoba.

We’ve listed some options below but be sure to check for events happening in your area.  

  • 1st Annual Clearwater Lake Trout Challenge in The Pas: calling all fishing enthusiasts, this two-day fishing derby is a team-based, barbless tournament with prizes for the top ten teams. Join for a weekend on beautiful Clearwater Lake and try to get the best catch of the derby! 
  • Visit The Leaf: One of Winnipeg’s newest attractions, The Leaf is an indoor horticultural attraction with four biomes for you to explore. While the biomes are indoors, you’ll feel like you’re exploring a topical oasis! They also host Sustainability Tours and have six distinct outdoor gardens that span close to 30 acres, so you’ll have no problems getting your time outdoors. 
  • Morden Corn & Apple Festival: Manitoba’s largest street festival is a fun-filled family event with shows, rides, games, and of course, corn and apples! 
  • Farmers markets: There’s no shortage of them throughout Manitoba on any given weekend, but summer is when they really start to pick up. Farmers markets not only support our farmers in Manitoba, but by choosing locally-grown produce, you’re also supporting a healthy environment. Here are a handful that’ll be open regularly throughout the season: 
  • Attend a street festival or block party in your community: Many neighbourhoods host free events with music, food, and activities throughout the summer months. Check with your local neighbourhood renewal corporations, community centres, or Business Improvement Zones (BIZ) to see what events are happening in your area. 

It would be impossible to list all the Manitoba events happening throughout our province over the spring and summer seasons, but there are numerous resources to help you plan. Check them out below. 

 

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EARTH DAY: CREATING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

UNDERSTANDING ENERGY EFFICIENCY & HOW YOUR HOME USES ENERGY

Earth Day is a day dedicated to encouraging individuals, businesses, and governments to take action to preserve the environment we live in. It’s more important than ever to recognize our impact on the planet and start taking steps now to create a sustainable future for generations to come, and we’re here to help. 

We’re a Crown corporation dedicated to energy efficiency. We offer programs and rebates to help you save electricity and natural gas, and have a team of experts to assist you in making homes, businesses, and communities more energy efficient.  

If you want to make energy efficiency upgrades but aren’t sure where to start, we can help! Understanding what energy efficiency is and how your home uses energy are the first steps to reducing your energy consumption, saving on your monthly bills, and creating positive change for the environment we live in.  

WHAT IS ENERGY EFFICIENCY?

You’ve probably heard the term “energy efficiency” before. We hear things like “be more energy efficient” or “use energy more efficiently” — but what does that mean?   

Energy efficiency is about using less energy to do the same job and get the same (or better!) result. We want to ensure the electricity and natural gas we consume go toward a specific job, like heating our homes or powering appliances, instead of going to waste.   

Many Manitoba homes, businesses, and communities use more energy than required. There are ways to reduce wasted energy while still being able to comfortably live, work, and play. We want to work with you to save energy, money, and the environment. It’s a win all around!   

ENERGY EFFICIENCY PRODUCES REAL BENEFITS

Energy efficiency isn’t just a buzz phrase or a passing trend. It’s a set of changes and behaviours that produce long-term results, both individually and collectively as a province.   

There are lots of benefits of using energy more efficiently: 

  • Lower energy bills   
  • Reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions   
  • Improved indoor comfort   
  • Reduced maintenance costs   
  • Improved operations (for businesses)   
  • Increased opportunities for green job creation   

FACTORS THAT AFFECT ENERGY USE

Everyone uses energy differently. A family of five living on a farm will likely have a much different energy bill than a single person living in a high-rise apartment. Here are some common factors that can impact your consumption:   

  • Age of your home (older homes tend to have less insulation and other energy efficient features than newer homes)   
  • Square footage of your home (larger homes tend to use more energy)   
  • Number of people in your household (more household members means more energy consumers)     
  • Individual behaviours (your thermostat settings, hobbies, and habits can all impact energy use)   

AVERAGE HOME ENERGY USE IN MANITOBA: THE NUMBERS

To help you understand how the average Manitoban consumes energy, we’ve gathered some data from Natural Resources Canada to show the breakdown for Manitoba homes and how Manitobans consume electricity and natural gas:   

The average home can expect to see 75% of their monthly energy bill go towards home and water heating. Other energy consumers including lighting, appliances, electronics, and air conditioning come in a distant second. The breakdown for electrically heated and natural gas heated homes is nearly identical.  

If you’re looking to cut your energy costs, it’s a good idea to look at your biggest consumers first — that is, your heating systems.    

HOW DOES YOUR HOME USE ENERGY?

To find out how your home uses energy, take our virtual energy review. It’s an online tool that gives you an overview of how much energy your heating systems are using and what you can do to take some of the load off your energy bill. Simply create an account and answer a few questions about your home — the tool will generate a customized energy use report and recommend energy-saving opportunities that make sense for you. Plus, it’s free and only takes about 10 minutes.  

TAKE THE VIRTUAL
ENERGY REVIEW

PROGRAMS TO HELP YOU SAVE

Efficiency Manitoba wants to make your energy efficiency upgrades easy! We offer two programs that can help you save on heating costs:  

  • Our Energy Efficiency Assistance Program offers free and subsidized upgrades to qualifying households. You can receive free insulation and a subsidized high-efficiency natural gas furnace upgrade when replacing a standard or mid-efficiency natural gas furnace. 
  • Making sure your home is properly insulated is one of the best ways to reduce your energy bills. If your home was built before 1999, it may not have enough insulation. Through our Home Insulation Rebate, homeowners can receive money back on insulation costs. Check to see if you and your project qualify and be sure to receive approval on your project before purchasing materials or starting any work.  

SMALL CHANGES, BIG IMPACT

In celebration of Earth Day, we encourage you to incorporate these simple, energy-saving habits into your everyday routine:   

  • Switch to LED light bulbs and be sure to turn off the lights when you leave a room.  
  • Adjust your thermostat by three degrees warmer in the summer or cooler in the winter for at least eight hours per day.  
  • Turn off and unplug devices when you’re not using them or use an advanced power strip. When you shut down a main device, like your computer or TV, it’ll also shut down any connected devices plugged into the power strip, like printers and gaming consoles.  
  • With warmer weather on the way, open your windows for a slight breeze rather than using your air conditioner.  
  • Wash your clothes in cold water and hang them outside to dry instead of using your clothes dryer.  

We’re here to help you be as energy efficient as possible. You can find expert advice, informative articles, and programs and rebates throughout our website that’ll help you save energy and money for years to come.  

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Efficiency Manitoba provides funding for First Nation ground source heat pump training and installation program

Crown corporation supports Indigenous-led sustainable energy sources and long-term green job creation

Efficiency Manitoba is providing critical funding for Indigenous trainees on ground source heat pump technology and installation in First Nation communities. The Crown corporation, which is focused on helping Manitobans reduce their energy consumption, is partnering with Indigenous social enterprise Aki Energy to fund a training program that creates local employment opportunities in First Nation communities in Manitoba.

Through an intensive hands-on training program, now underway for 15 Indigenous trainees, Aki Energy is building capacity within First Nation communities to install and maintain the ground source heat pumps, including plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), ducting, and heavy equipment operation. Efficiency Manitoba is providing a contribution of up to 50% of the course costs to a maximum of $185,000. Additional support will come from the Manitoba Environmental Industries Association (MEIA), with the balance paid by participating First Nation communities.

“Partnerships such as this are a demonstration of reconciliation in action. Efficiency Manitoba is showing its commitment to working with First Nation communities and partners to find new and creative solutions to save energy and reduce energy bills,” said Environment and Climate Minister Kevin Klein. “It is exciting to see this important training program providing concrete and supportive action that develops skilled career opportunities in First Nation communities.”

Through this training, Efficiency Manitoba anticipates nearly 400 ground source heat pumps will be installed in Manitoba over the next four years in homes in First Nation communities. These installations will come through Efficiency Manitoba’s Community Ground Source Heat Pump Program, which partners with Raven Indigenous Capital Partners who use an innovative social finance model to cover the capital cost of the ground source heat pump systems.

“We’re excited to support this training initiative and work with several key partners to help more First Nation families access our Community Ground Source Heat Pump Program,” said Colleen Kuruluk, CEO, Efficiency Manitoba. “It’s through programs and collaborative initiatives like this that we can work with First Nation communities to reduce their energy bills, build strong relationships, and create a more sustainable future.”

The success of this initiative will help First Nation families enjoy improved heating and cooling in their homes while saving money. It also has the added benefit of enabling employment via training and skill development for Manitoba First Nations, leading to long-term green job creation.

“We love to put solutions in the hands of Indigenous people,” said Jeffrey Cyr, Managing Partner, Raven Indigenous Capital Partners. “Our goal is to work with communities to identify social problems—such as rising households costs—and their solutions. We find partners such as Efficiency Manitoba and Aki Energy who can help us bridge the financial gap that allows these programs to move forward at a lower cost to the communities.”

Efficiency Manitoba’s support of Aki Energy’s training program provides the opportunity for more Indigenous Manitobans from First Nation communities to be professionally trained to install and maintain ground source heat pumps, growing the number of certified installers in the province and providing future employment opportunities. To enable and support participation, trainees who are recruited from First Nation communities to complete Aki Energy’s training program have their course, accommodation, and food covered while in the program. Aki Energy also provides various social supports while trainees are in the program such as family financial planning, CPR training, and family counselling support.

“Community is at the centre of everything we do,” said Darcy Wood, CEO, Aki Energy. “Our goal is to provide comprehensive training opportunities to ensure long term economic development and sustainability within communities. Our approach is a holistic one; we provide support not only through hands-on experience but in social aspects as well. We want the individuals we teach to support their communities—to spread the word about sustainability.”

For more information about Efficiency Manitoba’s rebates and offers, visit efficiencyMB.ca.

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 programs and offers available to help Manitobans save energy, money, and the environment. Efficiency Manitoba is contributing to reconciliation through ongoing, collaborative, and mutually respectful dialogue directly with Indigenous communities and groups along with ongoing engagement, action, and support leading to energy and bill savings.

Release date: April 18, 2023

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