The New Face of Canadian Energy Efficiency
The Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program (CGHAP) is the successor to the original Greener Homes Grant. Recognizing that upfront costs are the biggest barrier to energy efficiency, the federal government has pivoted to a "direct install" model specifically for low-to-median income Canadians.
What Makes CGHAP Different?
Unlike the previous grant program which required homeowners to pay upfront and wait for reimbursement, CGHAP aims to eliminate out-of-pocket expenses:
- Direct Install Model: Third-party delivery partners manage the retrofits and pay contractors directly.
- 100% Coverage: Eligible households may have the full cost of recommended retrofits covered.
- Tenant Inclusion: For the first time, some measures may be available to renters in low-income housing.
- No Evaluation Fee: The program typically covers the cost of the mandatory energy assessment.
Rollout (verified October 14, 2026)
CGHAP is delivered in partnership with provinces and territories, so it is only available where a delivery agreement exists. It is not a nationwide open application:
- 2025: Delivery began through participating provinces and territories. The first agreement was reached with Manitoba in September 2025, with nearly $30 million in federal funding flowing to Efficiency Manitoba.
- June 2026: The program expanded to Quebec, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, building on the existing Manitoba partnership, with delivery through partners such as Hydro-Québec, BC Hydro, FortisBC, and EfficiencyOne.
- Everywhere else: If your province or territory is not yet participating, there is no federal application to file. Check the Natural Resources Canada CGHAP page for the current list of participating provinces and the partner delivering the program in yours.
Eligible Upgrades
While the final list varies by region, core measures typically include:
- Cold Climate Heat Pumps: The priority for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- High-Efficiency Insulation: Attic, wall, and basement upgrades.
- Energy-Efficient Windows & Doors: Focusing on the most leaky parts of the home envelope.
- Air Sealing: Professional weatherization to reduce drafts.
Eligibility Tips
- Income Verification: You will need to provide your most recent Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the CRA.
- Primary Residence: The property must be your primary home.
- Stacking: Ask your provincial delivery partner what can be combined with CGHAP measures before assuming a federal loan or a provincial rebate applies to the same work.
Recommendation: Monitor the Natural Resources Canada CGHAP page regularly, and be wary of unsolicited offers: Natural Resources Canada warns that it has not approved third parties to contact homeowners about registering for CGHAP, and the government never solicits door-to-door or by phone for home energy products.