COMMUNITY HEAT PUMP PROGRAM FOR FIRST NATION COMMUNITIES

Efficiency Manitoba, in partnership with Raven Outcomes, is putting out a Call for Interest to First Nation communities across Manitoba to participate in the Community Heat Pump Program, which leverages the Community-Driven Outcomes Contract (CDOC) model to deliver energy-efficient heating solutions, housing retrofits, and long-term community benefits.

Through this model, Efficiency Manitoba and Raven Outcomes would work with accepted communities to determine the number of homes and phases which would receive a whole home retrofit approach that would start with a home assessment leading to building envelope upgrades such as insulation, windows and doors, in addition to energy efficient heating systems like heat pumps. This Call for Interest supports the Manitoba government’s Affordable Home Energy Program, aimed at making it easier for Manitobans to upgrade to energy-efficient heat pumps.

ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP

Efficiency Manitoba is investing up to $18.9 million through its Community Heat Pump Program through to 2029/30 to support energy efficiency upgrades in First Nation communities. This includes the installation of ground source heat pumps (or alternatively cold climate air source heat pumps if ground conditions aren’t suitable), insulation, windows, doors, and home energy evaluations.

Raven Outcomes brings additional private capital through its $50 million Raven Indigenous Outcomes Fund and works directly with communities to define outcomes, secure investments, and ensure long-term success. Raven also contracts from local social enterprises.

This partnership is rooted in the Community-Driven Outcomes Contract model, pioneered by Raven Outcomes, which empowers communities to define their own goals and priorities. Efficiency Manitoba acts as an outcomes purchaser, and technical advisor, paying for verified energy savings once installations are complete.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

• Installation of ground source heat pumps and other energy efficiency upgrades
• Enhanced rebates and capital support for eligible homes
• Community-led training and employment opportunities
• Partnership with Raven Outcomes to access social finance and outcomes-based funding

WHY PARTICIPATE?

• Reduce household heating costs by up to 60%
• Improve resiliency and home comfort, support community wide sustainability
• Build local capacity and create skilled jobs
• Shape outcomes that matter most to your community

APPLICATION PROCESS

The Call for Interest process will have two parts:

The first part will include submitting a completed Expression of Interest Form (PDF) or filling out the online form below by October 31, 2025. 

The second part of the process will be a follow up meeting with Efficiency Manitoba, Raven Outcomes, and the applicant community to discuss the application to further discuss and determine eligibility.

Communities can expect to be contacted approximately 30 days after the application deadline.