Green Homes

Reducing energy use in homes is one of the most effective ways residents can lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and manage energy costs. Improvements to building efficiency, along with thoughtful choices about heating and energy systems, can help homes become more comfortable, resilient, and energy-efficient.

Did you know?

Approximately 19% of RDOS-wide GHG emissions come from residential buildings. These emissions are largely associated with space heating, water heating, and cooking.
(The graphic below shows the share of emissions by sector across the region.)

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Making homes more energy efficient

There is no single solution that works for every home. Reducing energy use often starts with improving the building itself, such as:

  • Better insulation and air sealing

  • High-performance windows and doors

  • Efficient ventilation and controls

These measures can significantly reduce overall energy demand, regardless of the heating system used.

Green home upgrades, rebates and educational resources

Whether you're planning a full home renovation or looking to make small, energy-smart improvements, there are many ways to make your home more efficient, comfortable, and climate-friendly.

From upgrading insulation and windows to switching to dual-fuel systems, heat pumps or installing rooftop solar, these changes not only reduce your environmental impact — they can also help lower your monthly energy costs.                    

To support you in your journey, a variety of rebates, incentives and free resources are available to help offset costs and guide you through the process.

Green Homes Upgrade Process

The process below outlines a common pathway for making energy-efficient upgrades, especially if you plan to apply for provincial or federal rebates. Steps 1 and 5 are especially important for accessing incentives.

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Still have questions? CleanBC Better Homes offers free Energy Coach support by phone (1-844-881-9790) or Web form to help homeowners and contractors with energy upgrades, rebates, and general advice, with translation services available.          

Green homes: Resources and education

Building a greener home doesn’t stop at upgrades. Learning and staying informed is key to making smart, sustainable choices. Whether you're just getting started or planning your next retrofit, explore the following resources to build your knowledge and confidence:

  1. Educational Guides and tools
  • BC Home Energy Planner: The BC Home Energy Planner is a free online service that helps you understand and improve the energy efficiency of your home.
  • Learning for Students: Fortis BC works with organizations to provide educational materials to teachers and students focused on energy efficiency and conservation.

2. Workshops and Webinars
      Watch free webinars and take online workshops to learn about home energy efficiency, rebates, and contractor tips. Many are recorded and available on demand.



3. Success Stories: Energy-Efficient Living: Hear from Your Neighbours in RDOS

      Upgrading your home so all parts work together can help you save more energy and cut greenhouse gas emissions.