Home retrofit program earns national recognition

CEA’s Retrofit Assist, a program to encourage home energy retrofits by supporting homeowners and connecting them to energy advisors and contractors, has been recognized by Canada’s Clean50 Top Project Award for its ability to inform and inspire Canadians.

Retrofit Assist currently operates in BC in Rossland, Squamish, and Whistler. As a concierge service, CEA staff give participating homeowners direct support navigating the retrofit process.

Since the program launched in 2022, about 300 homeowners have participated in Retrofit Assist and those who have completed projects report average annual energy savings of nearly 30%. They each also qualify for rebates that can total thousands of dollars.

“We know that most homes standing today will still be around in 2050 when we need to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions,” says Megan Lohmann, CEA’s chief executive officer. “That’s why CEA developed Retrofit Assist, to help reduce emissions from existing homes in a way that provides service and support to homeowners who can otherwise find the retrofit process daunting and confusing.”

Participating homeowners can access various experts throughout the retrofit journey, including certified energy advisors and contractors specializing in upgrades to building envelopes (air sealing, insulation, windows and doors) and mechanical systems (heating, cooling, hot water and ventilation). Retrofit Assist also helps homeowners maximize the financial support available through municipal, provincial and federal rebate and loan programs.

“Retrofit Assist is working!” says Lohmann. “The results already show that participating in Retrofit Assist greatly reduces energy costs, increases comfort, and improves the durability of homes.”

Retrofit Assist also has the benefit of stimulating local economies. The program is creating long-term market transformation by engaging with local trades and contractors, providing the training and capacity-building opportunities that industry is looking for.

Retrofit Assist will be expanding to additional BC communities soon. Interested in bringing the retrofit concierge service to your community? Let us know.