2026
The CleanBC Energy Savings Program: A Guide for Barriere Homeowners
The CleanBC Better Homes Energy Savings Program is a provincial initiative aimed at making energy-efficient home upgrades more accessible and affordable for British Columbians.
Funded by the Province of B.C. in partnership with BC Hydro and FortisBC, the program focuses heavily on reducing greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging the adoption of electric heat pumps.
How the Rebates Can Be Used
For communities like Barriere, where propane is a primary heating source, the program is particularly beneficial. The reason being is that the rebates provided through the CleanBC Energy Savings Program are designed to cover a significant portion of the costs associated with purchasing and installing a new heating system.
Here are the primary ways the rebate funds can be utilized:
- Primary Heat Pump Installation: The core focus of the rebate is to offset the cost of purchasing and installing a high-efficiency electric heat pump to replace or supplement an existing propane, oil, or natural gas furnace.
- Electrical Service Upgrades: Because heat pumps require a dedicated electrical circuit, older homes may need an electrical panel upgrade (e.g., from 100-amp to 200-amp service). The program often includes add-on rebates to help cover these necessary electrical modifications.
- Health and Safety Improvements: In some cases, add-on rebates can be applied toward necessary health and safety upgrades required to complete the installation, such as improving ventilation or addressing mold and pest issues in the installation area.
By utilizing the CleanBC rebates, you can update your heating system for a fraction of the cost, and have the long-term savings work for you.
Rebate Tiers Based on Income
The amount of funding you can receive depends on your combined pre-tax annual household income and the number of people living in your home. The program is divided into three main income levels for homes switching from fossil fuels (like propane) to a heat pump. Here is a breakdown:
| Income Level | Coverage | Maximum Heat Pump Rebate | Eligible Fuel Source |
| Level 1 (Lowest Income) | Up to 95% of costs | Up to $16,000 | Gas, Oil, Propane |
| Level 2 (Moderate Income) | Up to 60% of costs | Up to $12,000 | Gas, Oil, Propane |
| Level 3 (Middle Income) | Varies | Up to $10,500 | Gas, Oil, Propane only |
For example, a family of four with a combined income of less than $87,350 falls into Level 1 and could receive up to $16,000. A family of four earning up to $185,620 falls into Level 3 and can still qualify for up to $10,500 when switching from propane.
CleanBC Energy Savings Program Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the CleanBC Energy Savings Program, homeowners must meet several specific requirements regarding their property and their utility accounts. The primary eligibility criteria include:
- Property Type and Age: The home must be a year-round primary residence and must be at least 12 months old.
- Utility Account Ownership: A member of the household must have a residential electricity account with BC Hydro, FortisBC, or a municipal utility. Accounts in the name of a strata corporation or a landlord are not eligible.
- Income Verification: Applicants must provide proof of income to determine their eligible rebate tier. This is based on the combined pre-tax annual income of all adults living in the home, excluding dependents.
Meeting these criteria is the first critical step toward securing your funding. If you are unsure whether your property or utility setup qualifies, reaching out to Hilltop Plumbing can help clarify your standing before you begin the application process.
How to Apply for the Program
The application process for the CleanBC Energy Savings Program is designed to be completed before any installation work begins. Following the correct sequence is crucial to ensure you receive your rebate.
- Pre-Register and Get a Code: Before starting any work or paying for equipment, you must pre-register through the Energy Savings Program Application Portal. Once approved, you will receive an Eligibility Code that is valid for six months.
- Get Quotes from Registered Contractors: You must obtain quotes and have the installation completed by an Energy Savings Program Registered Contractor.
- Install the Upgrade: Have the registered contractor install your new eligible heat pump system.
- Contractor Submits the Rebate: The registered contractor will submit the rebate application on your behalf. The rebate amount is deducted directly from your final invoice, meaning you only pay the remaining balance out of pocket.
By following these steps carefully, you can avoid common pitfalls that might delay or jeopardize your rebate.
Upgrade Your Home with Hilltop Plumbing & Heating
Hilltop Plumbing & Heating is a trusted, registered contractor serving Kamloops, Barriere, and the surrounding Thompson Okanagan region. Our Red Seal Certified technicians have extensive experience installing high-efficiency heat pumps and can help you maximize your CleanBC rebates.
If you are ready to reduce your reliance on propane and take advantage of the CleanBC Energy Savings Program, contact Hilltop Plumbing & Heating today. We will provide a comprehensive quote and handle the rebate paperwork so you can enjoy a more comfortable, energy-efficient home.