In response to growing demand for more comfortable, energy-efficient homes, the B.C. non-profit Community Energy Association (CEA) is offering an innovative new Retrofit Assist program to residents across the region.

The Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) is proud to be a funding partner on Retrofit Assist, which guides homeowners through the entire retrofit process—from initial interest, through to project completion.

This free concierge service provides participants with personalized guidance on how to plan and prioritize retrofit projects, support to maximize available rebates, and connection to expert energy advisors and contractors specializing in air sealing, insulation, windows, doors, heat pump installations, and solar.

New this fall, program participants also have access to financing for eligible retrofit projects through an exciting collaboration with SwitchPACE Community Interest Corporation.

Over the past 12 years, the RDEK has supported numerous programs and pilot projects to support homeowners and contractors in the East Kootenay to access training, programming, and rebates for home energy retrofits.

“Previous initiatives like East Kootenay Energy Diet, Building a Legacy, and Kootenay Clean Energy Transition have been well received by homeowners and the local building sector. This new partnership to make Retrofit Assist available to East Kootenay residents will provide additional tools, support and resources to our residents in making their homes more energy efficient,” said RDEK Board Chair Rob Gay.

According to BuildForce Canada, a national, industry-led organization that supports the construction industry, renovation activity in B.C. is projected to grow by 56%, with renovation employment increasing by 41% by 2033, making it the largest employer in the residential construction sector.

A unique component of Retrofit Assist is the complimentary focus on supporting the local workforce to meet industry standards and update qualifications, so they are prepared to benefit from this growing demand.

Mariah Byers, CEA’s Retrofit Assist Program Manager, highlights the program’s dual focus: “We’re addressing both the supply and demand sides of the retrofit process. We work closely with contractors so they understand rebate eligibility requirements and have access to training, and we guide homeowners through each step to help them make informed decisions that maximize the benefits of their home energy upgrades.”

Homeowners interested in participating in Retrofit Assist are encouraged to visit retrofitassist.ca for more information. Byers adds, “If you’re planning a home renovation, facing the replacement of an aging furnace, or considering energy upgrades, but don’t know where to start, we can make the process simple and accessible.”

Contractors who would like to learn more about how to connect with the program and homeowners can visit retrofitassist.ca/contractors.

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Community Energy Association

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