Article series: Remove barriers to home energy upgrades with Community Efficiency Financing
How communities across Canada are unlocking energy savings and comfort for local residents
HOME ENERGY AND RESILIENCE UPGRADES
Home-energy upgrade financing program
The Green Municipal Fund’s Community Efficiency Financing (CEF) initiative is helping municipalities make home energy upgrades accessible and affordable. By reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and lowering monthly bills, CEF is bringing environmental sustainability and household affordability together in impactful ways.
Launched in 2020 as a six-year, $300-million initiative, CEF has already supported more than 40 municipal programs across eight provinces—resulting in over 4,400 home retrofits.
This article series highlights innovative local approaches that are empowering homeowners to cut energy costs, boost comfort and invest in a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Articles in the series
Calgary homeowner turns to solar to power her home and future
When a Calgary couple bought their 1958 bungalow, they found higher energy bills than expected. A loan through the City’s Clean Energy Improvement Program helped them install energy-saving upgrades that made their home more comfortable and affordable.
Efficiency that works for families: Comfort and savings made simple
In Colchester, Nova Scotia, a single mother of three used the Cozy Colchester program to install energy-saving upgrades without upfront costs. The result: a warmer home and lower bills.
From oil to efficiency: One Saanich homeowner’s path to cleaner heating
A flyer from the District of Saanich led one homeowner to switch from oil to a cleaner, more efficient system through the municipality’s home retrofit pilot—showing how local programs make participation simple and accessible.
From upgrades to peace of mind: One rural family’s path to efficiency
After moving to rural Nova Scotia, one family found comfort and savings through Cozy Colchester’s Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program, which offers low-interest loans for energy retrofits with flexible repayment.
How one Saskatoon family transformed their home with energy upgrades
A south-facing garage roof made one Saskatoon home perfect for solar. Through the city’s Home Energy Loan Program, the homeowners added solar panels, a heat pump, and insulation—boosting comfort and savings.
Investing in a brighter, more resilient future
In Guelph, a 1970s home went through a full transformation: solar panels, an all-electric heating system, and modern appliances—financed through the city’s Guelph Greener Homes program.
Turning an energy upgrade into everyday comfort
Also in Guelph, another homeowner used Guelph Greener Homes to replace an aging furnace with an efficient hybrid system—showing how flexible financing and expert support make energy upgrades achievable.
Want to explore all GMF-funded projects? Check out the Projects Database for a complete overview of funded projects and get inspired by municipalities of all sizes, across Canada.
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