Applying for Heat Pumps Through CleanBC's Energy Savings Program

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It’s no surprise questions about heat pumps are some of the most commonly asked questions during Empower Me workshops. Heat pumps are a smart, energy-efficient way to heat and cool your home all year round and they can help you save money on your energy bills while reducing your environmental impact. And thanks to CleanBC’s rebate programs, they’re more affordable than ever.

There are two main rebate options for BC residents upgrading to a heat pump, both offered through Better Homes BC:

🔹 Option 1: CleanBC's Energy Savings Program (ESP) – For Income-Qualified Households

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If you meet the income and home eligibility requirements for CleanBC’s Energy Savings Program, you could receive up to $19,000 for a heat pump installation—or up to $19,500 if you're installing a combined space and water heat pump.

Even better? If you live in Northern BC, you may qualify for an extra $3,000 top-up to help cover additional costs.

Your rebate amount depends on:

🔥 How you currently heat your home

⚙️ The type of heat pump you’re installing

📍 Where your home is located

To apply, just follow the steps outlined in our last blog post.

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🔹 Option 2: Better Homes & Home Renovation Rebates – Open to All Homeowners

Not eligible for the Energy Savings Program? No problem! The Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate program is open to all homeowners, no income qualification required. You’ll need to pay for your upgrade upfront and then apply for a reimbursement.

Heads-up for renters: This rebate is only available to homeowners, but you can ask your landlord to apply!

To qualify, your home must:

• Be your primary, year-round residence and at least 12 months old
• Have an energy account with FortisBC, BC Hydro, or a municipal utility
• Be a single-family home, mobile home (fixed), or qualifying suite/duplex/rowhouse with its own utility meter

Your home must also be heated by one of the following:

• Natural gas or piped propane (FortisBC or Pacific Northern Gas)
• Electricity (FortisBC, BC Hydro, or municipal utility)
• Oil, propane (not from FortisBC), wood, or other solid fuels

👉 Contractor requirement: Your heat pump must be installed by a licensed contractor with a valid BC trade license.

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✅ How to Apply

1. Check your eligibility – Review the program requirements and terms.
2. Purchase and install an eligible heat pump with a licensed contractor.
3. If switching from fossil fuels, include proof that your old system has been removed or decommissioned.
4. Submit your application with all supporting documents, including your receipts and invoice.

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📄 Choose the Right Application for You

Here’s where to apply based on your energy provider and project:

• I’m a BC Hydro electric customer upgrading an electric system to a heat pump
  👉 BC Hydro Online Application
• I’m a BC Hydro customer switching from natural gas, propane, oil, or wood to a heat pump
  👉 BC Hydro Online Application (same link—just specify your upgrade type)
• I’m a FortisBC electric customer upgrading to a heat pump
  👉 FortisBC Online Application

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Questions?

Speak to someone about CleanBC programs and get personalized support in your language.

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