Energy Efficient Housing Program
Save More with the Home Efficiency Rebate, Live Greener!
Sagen is committed to supporting homebuyers who choose energy efficient homes or invest in energy-saving renovations. Through the Sagen Energy Efficient Housing Program, buyers and homeowners can enjoy significant savings on their mortgage insurance premiums while making environmentally responsible choices. Whether you’re purchasing a high efficiency home or upgrading your existing one, Sagen helps you save money through initiatives like the Home Efficiency Rebate, contributing to a greener future.
Sagen’s Energy-Efficient Housing Program offers a refund of up to 25% on the mortgage insurance premium for eligible participants. This refund, which aligns with efforts such as the Home Efficiency Rebate, is calculated based on the total premium paid and does not have a specific monetary cap.
If the loan was received by Sagen prior to June 20, 2022, the loan may be eligible under the previous program criteria.
How the rebate process works
Eligibility requirements
To qualify for the 25% premium refund, the property’s energy efficiency level and/or greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions must meet one of the following criteria:
- Certified Energy Efficiency
The property meets eligible certification standards.
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The property ranks within the top 15% of the lowest GHG emissions in its area.
- Energy Consumption
The property consumes at least 20% less energy (gigajoules/year) compared to “A Typical New House.”
Additionally, the following conditions must be met:
- The mortgage must be insured by Sagen.
- An EnerGuide Home Evaluation is required both before and after completing energy efficiency improvements.
- Sagen must receive all mortgage insurance premiums and fees before issuing the refund.
- The home must comply with all minimum energy efficiency program requirements based on the mortgage insurance application date.
- The refund application must be submitted within 24 months of the mortgage closing date.
- All supporting energy efficiency documentation must be no more than 5 years old.
Energy Efficient Housing Rebate amount
Homeowners who improve their home’s energy efficiency may qualify for a 15% or 25% premium refund through the Home Efficiency Rebate, based on energy savings. Eligibility is determined by the EnerGuide Rating before and after upgrades.
15% Premium Refund
Pre-upgrade EnerGuide Less than 200 GJ/year
You must reduce energy consumption by at least 20 GJ/year
Pre-upgrade EnerGuide 200 or more GJ/year
You must reduce energy consumption by at least 45 GJ/year
After upgrades, the EnerGuide Rating must be less than 250 GJ/year
25% Premium Refund
Pre-upgrade EnerGuide Less than 200 GJ/year
You must reduce energy consumption by at least 45 GJ/year
Pre-upgrade EnerGuide 200 or more GJ/year
You must reduce energy consumption by at least 90 GJ/year
After upgrades, the EnerGuide Rating must be less than 250 GJ/year
Booking your Audit for Energy Efficient Housing Program
A Home Energy Audit is the first step to applying for the Energy Efficient Housing Program.
Frequently asked questions
How do I promote the energy efficiency of my home when selling it?
Energy efficiency upgrades may not be as visible as other renovations, but an EnerGuide rating and the Home Efficiency Rebate can help increase your home’s value.
If you have an EnerGuide evaluation, share it with your real estate agent to showcase energy-efficient features like insulation, heating systems, windows, and appliances. If not, consider getting an evaluation from a qualified energy advisor and include the updated rating in your MLS listing.
How to Find an Energy-Efficient Home to Buy?
Look for homes with certifications like Passive House, Built Green, EnerGuide Rating, or the ENERGY STAR® label. ENERGY STAR® homes are 20% more efficient than standard homes and typically include:
- Efficient heating and cooling systems
- High-performance windows and doors
- Extra insulation
- ENERGY STAR® appliances
- HRV/ERV ventilation systems
Ask the seller if they’ve had an EnerGuide evaluation and check for the EnerGuide label to assess energy consumption
How do I apply for the Energy Efficient Housing Program?
- Complete a pre-upgrade EnerGuide Home Evaluation.
- Perform the recommended upgrades.
- Complete a post-upgrade EnerGuide Home Evaluation.
- Compare pre- and post-upgrade ratings to check eligibility for a 15% or 25% mortgage insurance premium refund.
- Apply online or by downloading the PDF for mail submission.
- Refunds are processed within 30 business days.