Creating inclusive energy retrofit programs
A guide for Canadian municipalities and partners
COMMUNITY EFFICIENCY FINANCING
Strengthen communities by integrating equity principles into local programs
Start learning todayAbout this guide
The Integrating Equity Principles Within Community Efficiency Financing Programs: A Guide for Canadian Municipalities and Partners is designed to help municipalities create home energy retrofit financing programs that work for everyone. Developed as part of the Green Municipal Fund's (GMF) Community Efficiency Financing (CEF) initiative, this guide provides practical tools and strategies to make energy efficiency programs more accessible, fair and impactful.
Why inclusion matters
Energy efficiency programs have the power to reduce energy costs, improve home comfort and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Yet not everyone has been able to access these benefits. Barriers like upfront costs, language differences and a lack of awareness often exclude those who need these programs the most.
This guide is built on the principle that fairness doesn’t mean treating everyone the same—it means recognizing people’s unique starting points and equipping them with the tools they need to succeed. By adopting this approach, municipalities can create programs that:
- Help more households participate in energy retrofits
- Reduce energy costs for those who need it most
- Build healthier, more resilient communities
By addressing these challenges and designing inclusive programs, municipalities can ensure energy efficiency benefits reach everyone in their communities.
What you’ll find in the guide
- Clear steps to success: Learn how to incorporate inclusive practices at every stage of your program, from planning to evaluation.
- Tools to remove barriers: Explore ways to make your programs more accessible, whether by reducing financial risks, tailoring outreach efforts, or offering targeted supports.
- Real-life examples: See how other municipalities, like Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, and Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, are leading the way with programs that prioritize community needs and deliver real results.
Who is this guide for?
This guide is for municipalities, local governments and their partners involved in home energy retrofit financing. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your approach, this resource will help you design programs that create meaningful change and reach more people.
Get started
Making your energy retrofit program more inclusive doesn’t require overhauling everything at once. This guide offers practical actions you can take, no matter where your community is on its journey. Even small steps can make a big difference.
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