Home Energy Loan Program (HELP)

Consultants will perform a site visit and conduct an energy assessment to identify energy-saving opportunities and provide a clear understanding of the building’s energy use patterns, resulting in a report that recommends low or no-cost measures to improve energy efficiency. Stratas can then use the information in the assessment to retrofit their building for cost and energy savings.

A solar generation study determines the amount of rooftop space available for solar power generation, including the potential amount of solar power generation, a high-level cost estimate, and financial payback. Stratas can use this information to budget for, or implement, a solar array on their rooftop.

Only stratified multi-unit residential buildings qualify for a free energy assessment and solar study report. Buildings must also be larger than 600m². 

To apply online for a free energy assessment and solar study, click this link.

Townhouse complexes are not eligible; however, they can apply for the City’s Home Energy Loan Program instead (outlined above on this webpage). The Home Energy Loan Program offers a subsidized energy assessment as well, which includes recommended cost saving measures for your home. 

Buildings that are smaller than 600m² are not eligible. However, there is support available through the Canada Greener Homes Grant. 

Apartment buildings that are purpose-built rentals do not qualify for this program; however, FortisBC has an Energy Efficiency for Rental Apartments and Accommodations program. For more information, contact FortisBC directly or visit the FortisBC webpage.

Apply online today

HELP can be used for the same energy efficiency retrofits that are eligible for rebates through the Fortis BC's rebate program and improvements recommended in the Home Energy Assessment done on your home. Examples of improvements include air sealing, exterior wall insulation, basement insulation, doors and windows.

Fortis BC Rebate Information

How does your house compare when it comes to its energy efficiency? Now you can find out in less than five minutes by filling out a simple online form.  You'll receive a free custom report about the energy efficiency of your home – plus some suggested opportunities to increase your energy rating.

Visit our Home Energy Savings page

Step 1: Are you eligible? Start by filling out HELP Application and submit it to publicworks@penticton.ca

Step 2: Have a home energy assessment done to your home. Cost to homeowner $35.00+tax. Once you have been approved our program staff will arrange for the assessment.

Step 3: From the Home Assessment you decide what work you want to do, choose your contractor and get the work done.

Step 4: Certify work is done by having the Homeowner/Contractor fill out application forms for:

HELP Completion Forms

Step 5: Post Assessment is done to your home. Cost to homeowner $200.00+tax.

Step 6: Submit your documentation to City Yards @ 616 Okanagan Avenue East, Penticton, BC, before December 31, 2024.

The Home Energy Loan Program, or HELP, is a loan service available through the City of Penticton for eligible energy efficiency upgrades made by City of Penticton residents that own their own homes. HELP is repaid by the customer through monthly payments on their City of Penticton utility bill.

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Must be City of Penticton Residential Electric Utility Customer
• Must be the registered owner of the property and hold the utilities account in the registered owner name(s)
• Must pass a credit check based on Utility bill payments for previous 12 months with 9 months of credit history, or produce a letter from a previous electrical utility indicating the Customer is in "good standing" being considered in extenuating circumstances

Energy efficiency upgrades are modifications to your home that reduce your energy use and save you money on your utility bills. Eligible upgrades include (but not limited to) insulation, reducing air leakage, and installing more efficient space and water heating systems. An attractive way to fund these upgrades is through a City of Penticton Home Energy Loan.

HELP upgrades can be used for the same energy efficiency retrofits that are eligible for rebates through FortisBC's home rebate program, and improvements recommended in your EnerGuide Assessment and Renovation Upgrade Report. Some examples of FortisBC's rebates include:

• Insulation: Exterior wall insulation, crawl space insulation, attic insulation
• Draftproofing and air sealing
• Upgrading doors and windows
• Heat pump purchase and installation

For a complete list of rebates please see FortisBC's website

The interest rate is currently prime plus 0.5%.