30 July 2024 
In this issue, learn more about rebate and grant programs with a focus on energy efficient, sustainable homes and co-ops.
Vancouver Island Community Impact Grant
Does your Vancouver Island co-op have an idea for a project with a focus on reducing its environmental footprint or promoting sustainable food systems and food security? If so, your co-op could receive a grant of up to $5,000 to projects that promote sustainable and inclusive co-operative living. Learn about eligibility criteria, applying, and more here.
CleanBC Better Homes Energy Savings Program
Everyone deserves a healthy, comfortable, and energy efficient home. Through the Energy Savings Program (formerly known as the Income Qualified Program), eligible households can receive up to $44,900 in rebates for heat pumps, insulation, electric service upgrade, and more. You can also access free energy coaching, virtual energy assessments, and support in multiple languages. Eligible home types include townhomes, row homes, and detached dwellings; multi-unit residential buildings are not eligible. Learn more here.
Free Portable AC Units
Qualified households can currently access one portable air conditioning unit and a one-time installation through the BC government’s Free Portable Air Conditioning program. Eligible housing types include apartments, row homes, and townhomes. Learn more about the program and eligibility requirements.
Rooftop Solar Rebates
Eligible housing providers, including co-ops, can now access rebates for eligible solar panels and battery storage systems. Benefits of installing solar include lower BC Hydro bills, energy self-sufficiency, and greater sustainability.
- Learn more about solar panels and batteries for power storage
- Find rebates for social housing providers
Note: Housing co-ops must be commercial / business customers of BC Hydro. Residents of the City of New Westminster and non-BC Hydro customers are currently not eligible for program rebates.
Tree Canada Community Tree Grants
Does your co-op have an idea for a greening project? Housing co-ops may be able to access up to $10,000 from Tree Canada for projects that focus on the creation of urban forests and planting of edible trees. Eligible projects can receive funding to cover the cost of purchasing and planting trees and shrubs, site preparation, tree maintenance, planting materials, and developing education materials. Find out more about the grants: