Ontario homeowners can now claim new rebates on energy-efficient appliances as part of the province’s expanded Home Renovation Savings Program (HRSP), a move the government says will lower household electricity bills and reduce strain on the grid.
The rebates, available starting this fall, offer up to $200 back on eligible refrigerators, freezers and laundry machines. The appliances can be purchased from any retailer, online or in-store, and funds will be delivered within two months of approval — though the government warns of possible delays due to rotating Canada Post strikes.
Energy Minister Stephen Lecce said the expanded program is part of a broader 12-year, $10.9-billion provincial investment in energy-efficiency initiatives designed to save money and power at the same time. “With electricity demand rising, keeping more money in people’s pockets has never been more important,” he said. “Families save money and Ontario saves power — the ultimate win-win.”
Households don’t need a home energy assessment to qualify for the appliance rebates, making them some of the most accessible incentives in the program. However, assessments are still required for certain other upgrades, including heat pump water heaters, air sealing, and window or door replacements. Homeowners cover assessment costs upfront and are reimbursed once eligible renovations are complete.
The HRSP, launched in January, replaced a previous provincial rebate program cancelled in 2018. Since then, Ontario has gradually added incentives for windows, doors, insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, and smart thermostats. The new appliance rebates mark the latest expansion, alongside a simplified attic insulation rebate now available without a home energy assessment.
All homes connected to Ontario’s electrical grid — including condos and apartments — are eligible, provided the new appliance replaces an older, less efficient electric model. Additional upgrades such as smart thermostats, cold-climate heat pumps, ground-source heat pumps, solar panels and battery storage can also be installed without requiring an assessment.
The rollout comes just weeks after electricity rates increased on Nov. 1, when winter time-of-use hours took effect. The Ontario Energy Board adjusts rates annually for homes, small businesses, and farms.
More details, including eligibility requirements and application steps, can be found on the Home Renovation Savings Program website.