Ontario vows to improve access to energy retrofit program in northern Ontario

Energy Minister Glenn Thibeault says he is working to ensure all Ontarians can take advantage of an energy retrofit program, after the NDP noted issues that made it largely inaccessible for some northerners.

Sarah Campbell, who represents Kenora-Rainy River for the NDP, said in the legislature this week that in order to access the Ontario Energy Retrofit Program, homeowners have to get an energy audit.

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She said there are no certified energy advisers in her riding and the closest one is 490 kilometres away, in Thunder Bay, and she said homeowners were being asked to pay travel expenses.

Thibeault said he was surprised to hear that, because Enbridge and Union Gas are obligated under the program to provide services throughout the province.

He added that he followed up with the gas companies, who told him they will ensure auditors are hired in under-served areas and that any travel costs are covered by the companies.

The retrofit program gives homeowners rebates generally between $500 and $2,000 toward renovations such as new, energy-efficient furnaces, windows and insulation.