The ecoENERGY Retrofit program aimed at creating jobs in the energy-sector while improving homes for winter conditions in Canada was stopped recently – prematurely in the view of some industry professionals. The program, originally set to run until March 31, 2012, was dedicated to reducing the cost of energy through the implementation of more energy-efficient home components in existing homes. It was designed to encourage clean energy solutions, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the building of a more sustainable environment.

But in ending the program early, the government said that the program is no longer accepting new registrations as it had successfully reached its goal of 250,000 registered homeowners– a goal not mentioned until July 2011, when the original program of 2007 was renewed.

“I am surprised about the early closure of the program as I felt it was a good program for both homeowners and the building industry. It addressed the large number of existing homes and the need to increase their level of energy efficiency,” says David Bengert, past-president of Built Green Canada program and director of corporate purchasing for Jayman MasterBUILT. “I understand the need for fiscal responsibility and hope that the government sees fit to develop another program with input from professionals in our industry.”

Homeowners were encouraged to replace older components such as heating systems, cooling systems, ventilation systems, domestic hot water equipment, insulation, air sealing, windows, doors, skylights, and water conservation. “Homeowners who participated in the program decreased their energy use by an average of 20 per cent,” says Natural Resources Canada on its ecoENERGY Retrofit - Homes web page (Click Here to visit Natural Resources web page). “The program also increased homeowners understanding of energy efficiency activities and successfully encouraged Canadians to undertake more retrofits than they had planned in order to improve their homes efficiency.”

The deadline to submit post-retrofit evaluations and receipts has been extended to June 30, 2012 in order to accommodate homeowners already registered for the program.

The program benefitted both the homeowners and the economy, says Donna Moore, CEO of Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region. “We are disappointed because it created opportunities for homeowners to do some upgrading in their homes and do a little more to make their homes more energy efficient – and that creates opportunities for jobs that are now lost.”

Protecting the environment is an important goal for the residential construction industry, adds Bengert. “Our industry knows how to build energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly homes that are affordable to homebuyers and we are willing to share our knowledge. As an example, CHBA - Calgary Region led the country in 2003 with the development and launch of Built Green Canada for new and existing homes.”

Although the ecoENERGY Retrofit program for homes was cancelled, the government announced it will provide $117 million over 3 years to improve housing standards, building codes, industrial practice, vehicle labels, and consumer appliances.

“The positive news is that the government is going to continue investing money in these areas,” says Moore.