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