UPDATE: The energy savings programs were scrapped by the provincial government in June 2020. Applications submitted before that may still be considered, but the rebate and incentive programs are no longer accepting new applications. The previous information is still available on this page in case you need to check historical data and the program’s stats.
Many of the fixtures that we take for granted every day are actually some of the biggest consumers of electricity, natural gas, and water: always-on appliances and electrical devices, high-flow shower heads, old incandescent lights, and so on. The resources these products waste not only lead to higher energy and water bills, but also necessitate rate hikes to cover the cost of the infrastructure needed to meet rising demand.
In order to end this cycle of spiraling costs, Energy Efficiency Alberta—a Government of Alberta agency tasked with helping provincial residents save energy—is offering a Residential No-Charge Energy Savings Program.
How the Program Works
When you register for this program, you will shortly after receive a call from an Energy Efficiency Alberta representative, who will schedule an appointment to have an installer come out to your house. On the day before your appointment, your installer will call you to confirm the appointment. Please note: Your installer will likely identify themselves as an employee of “Ecofitt.” Ecofitt is a Canadian company that specializes in conservation programs. Energy Efficiency Alberta has selected Ecofitt as a contractor for delivering program services.
On the day of your appointment, your installer will conduct a walkthrough of your home, identifying sources of energy waste which qualify for free upgrade through the program. Then the installer will remove the high-usage fixtures, replace them with new efficiency products, and show you how to use them appropriately.
The visit takes about an hour, and everything—the visit, installation, and the products themselves—is absolutely free.
Products Covered By the Program
The products offered by the program may vary over time, but the program currently covers:
- Replacement of all incandescent lightbulbs, nightlights, and emergency exit signs with extremely energy-efficient LED lighting.
- Replacing any high-flow shower heads with new super-efficient shower heads that reduce water usage.
- Replacing old style power strips with new smart power strips, which can reduce or eliminate electricity used by TVs, media players, entertainment systems, and kitchen appliances while in standby mode.
- Replacing older “dumb” thermostats with new, programmable thermostats.
- Installing faucet aerators, which not only save water, but also save energy when using hot water.
Program Eligibility
This program is available to all Albertans, regardless of income, type of home, or location. However, if you live in an apartment building or condo, please be sure to include your landlord’s or property manager’s contact information, as Energy Efficiency Alberta must have their approval in order to provide services at your place of residence.
For more information on this program, please visit Energy Efficiency Alberta’s page about the Residential No-Charge Energy Savings Program.