Saving on Energy Costs For Low Income Homeowners and Tenants

January 06, 2017

Save-on-Energy Home Assistance Program

In Ontario, the Save-on-Energy Home Assistance Program can assist qualifying homeowners and tenants to save on energy costs throughout the year. By improving energy efficiency in the home, seasonal consumption is reduced, and monthly costs are lessened. Even the smallest change can create positive results, whether someone is lighting, heating, or cooling the home. Eligible homeowners/tenants may qualify for various energy-efficient appliances. And for those who heat electrically, they may qualify for a programmable thermostat, weather-stripping, and even additional insulation for the attic/basement. Energy conservation products provided by the Home Assistance program are installed in the home without charge to participants. For those who want to participate in the assistance program, it all begins with a comprehensive in-home energy assessment. This is followed by professional installation of energy-conservation devices, along with practical advice on how to save energy right around the year.

Energy Assistance Program for Low Incomes

For those who are natural gas customers, and considered low income, Enbridge Gas is working in tandem with LEAP - the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program. LEAP assists many low-income customers with bill payments and energy costs. There is a one-time grant (up to $500) for eligible customers who have difficulty paying "past due" bills. Naturally, annual funding is limited. LEAP works with the United Way to assess customer eligibility. They consider household income, the number of residents living in the home, and the current status of the Enbridge Gas account. Customers are required to provide the necessary supporting documents when applying: monthly gas bills; any disconnection notices; proof of household incomes; and bank statements.

Home Winter Proofing Program

The Home Winter Proofing Program is available to Enbridge customers who are in financial need, and who are interested in lowering their energy costs. Qualifying customers could be eligible to have weather stripping and/or insulation installed at no cost. The program allows customers to keep their home warm throughout the winter, while reducing energy consumption. The Home Winter Proofing Program is FREE to qualifying homes. Enbridge Gas pays for the cost of energy efficiency improvements - things like enhanced insulation or improved draft proofing. In this way, homeowners can cut energy usage by 30%, and therefore lower seasonal energy bills. Enbridge Gas finds the greatest efficiency savings in those homes that are 35+ years old.

LEAP is also available through Hydro One

For those struggling to pay a Hydro One bill, LEAP can pay up to $500 of an outstanding amount. Participants must be residential customers of Hydro One, and household income must qualify. It's similar to the Enbridge Gas program, where supporting paperwork must be submitted with the application: any outstanding Hydro One billings; proof of income; and bank statements. Generally, every home can benefit from energy saving measures, regardless of the scope of work. From basic weatherizing to high performance insulation, energy use can be measurably reduced, and monthly billing can be decreased noticeably. Summer and winter, the savings will mount up.