How to Claim Heat Pump Rebates in BC (2026 Guide)
BC homeowners can access up to $11,000 or more in combined rebates and incentives when installing a qualifying heat pump. The money is real, but the process has specific steps, timing requirements, and eligibility rules that catch many homeowners off guard.
This guide walks you through every program available in BC, who qualifies, exactly how to apply, and in what order — so you don't miss a dollar.
Programs Available to BC Homeowners in 2026
1. CleanBC Better Homes — Heat Pump Rebate
Up to $6,000
The primary BC provincial rebate, funded by CleanBC and delivered through BC Hydro, FortisBC, and other energy utilities.
What it covers:
- Air-source heat pump (ducted or ductless): up to $6,000
- Air-to-water heat pump: up to $6,000
- Cold climate upgrade add-on: additional amounts for qualifying cold-climate models
Who qualifies:
- BC homeowner (not renter)
- Replacing an existing heating system OR adding to an underheated home
- Equipment must meet minimum efficiency thresholds (HSPF2 ≥ 7.1 for most programs)
- Contractor must be registered with CleanBC Better Homes
How to apply:
- Get a quote from a registered contractor (verify at betterhomesbc.ca)
- Contractor submits pre-installation registration (required for some utility programs)
- Equipment is installed
- Contractor or homeowner submits rebate application with invoice
- Rebate paid within 6-8 weeks
Important: Some utility-delivered versions of this rebate (BC Hydro, FortisBC) require pre-registration before installation. Confirm with your contractor before scheduling the job.
2. Canada Greener Homes Loan
Up to $40,000 interest-free
The federal Canada Greener Homes Grant was discontinued in 2024, but the loan program remains active. This is a 0% interest loan — not a grant — repaid over up to 10 years.
What it covers:
- Heat pump installation (any qualifying type)
- Paired with insulation, windows, or other energy upgrades
Who qualifies:
- Canadian homeowner
- Home built before 2021
- Must have an EnerGuide home evaluation completed
How to apply:
- Register at canada.ca/en/natural-resources/services/homes/canada-greener-homes-initiative
- Book a pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation (~$400-600; eligible for reimbursement up to $600)
- Complete eligible retrofits (including heat pump)
- Book post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation
- Submit invoices and receive loan funding
Timeline: Allow 3-6 months for the full process. Start registration early.
3. Canada Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program (OHPA)
Up to $10,000
Specifically for BC homeowners currently heating with oil, propane, or wood who are switching to a heat pump. This is one of the most generous programs available and significantly underutilized.
Who qualifies:
- Currently heating primarily with heating oil, propane, or wood
- Household income under $120,000 (some provinces; verify federal eligibility)
- Low- and moderate-income households may qualify for higher amounts
What it covers:
- Full heat pump system installation
- Removal of old oil/propane equipment (in some cases)
How to apply:
- Apply through Natural Resources Canada
- Contractor must be registered with the program
- Installation must be completed after approval
Note: This stacks with provincial CleanBC rebates. An oil-heated BC home switching to heat pump can access $10,000 (federal) + up to $6,000 (provincial) = $16,000 combined.
4. BC Hydro and FortisBC Rebates
Additional $500-$2,000 depending on utility and equipment
Your utility provider may offer additional rebates beyond the CleanBC provincial program.
BC Hydro: Additional rebates for qualifying heat pumps; check bchydro.com/powersmart
FortisBC: If you're a FortisBC gas customer switching to heat pump, additional transition incentives may apply; check fortisbc.com/rebates
These typically stack with CleanBC rebates. Your registered contractor should know the current amounts.
Maximum Stacking Example (2026)
| Program | Amount |
|---|---|
| CleanBC Better Homes — heat pump | Up to $6,000 |
| Canada Greener Homes Loan (interest-free) | Up to $40,000 |
| BC Hydro additional rebate | Up to $1,000 |
| Total support available | $6,000 cash + up to $40,000 interest-free |
For oil/propane-heated homes:
| Program | Amount |
|---|---|
| Canada OHPA (federal) | Up to $10,000 |
| CleanBC Better Homes | Up to $6,000 |
| Total cash rebates | Up to $16,000 |
Step-by-Step: The Right Order to Apply
Getting the order wrong is the most common mistake. Some programs require pre-approval; others only accept post-installation claims.
Step 1: Check eligibility first Visit betterhomesbc.ca and the Canada Greener Homes portal to confirm your home and circumstances qualify before spending anything.
Step 2: Register for Canada Greener Homes Loan (if using it) Book your EnerGuide pre-assessment first. This must happen before installation to qualify for federal funding.
Step 3: Get quotes from registered contractors Contractors must be registered with CleanBC to submit rebate applications on your behalf. Ask explicitly: "Are you registered with CleanBC Better Homes?" Get 2-3 quotes.
Step 4: Confirm utility pre-registration (if required) If your utility (BC Hydro, FortisBC) requires pre-registration, your contractor handles this before installation begins.
Step 5: Install the equipment Your contractor completes the installation and provides a detailed invoice showing model number, HSPF2 rating, and installation address.
Step 6: Submit rebate applications
- CleanBC/utility rebate: contractor typically submits on your behalf, or you submit with contractor's supporting documentation
- Federal loan: submit post-installation through Greener Homes portal with invoices
Step 7: Book post-retrofit EnerGuide assessment (if using federal loan) Required to close out the federal loan application.
Equipment Eligibility — What Qualifies
Not every heat pump qualifies. Programs require specific minimum efficiency ratings.
Minimum thresholds (2026 — verify as these change):
- HSPF2 ≥ 7.1 for most ductless mini-split rebates
- Cold-climate models (HSPF2 ≥ 7.5 or rated to -15°C) qualify for enhanced tiers
- Air-to-water heat pumps: separate eligibility criteria
Verify the specific model appears on the current CleanBC eligible products list before purchasing. Your contractor should confirm this — if they can't, ask them to look it up.
Common Mistakes That Cost Homeowners Money
Installing before registering for the federal loan. The Greener Homes Loan requires a pre-assessment before installation. Installing first disqualifies you from the loan.
Using an unregistered contractor. If your contractor isn't registered with CleanBC Better Homes, you cannot claim the provincial rebate. Always verify registration before signing anything.
Buying equipment that doesn't meet HSPF2 thresholds. The cheapest heat pump on the market may not qualify. Confirm the model is on the eligible list.
Missing the application deadline. Most rebate programs have submission deadlines after installation (often 90-180 days). Don't wait.
Not stacking programs. Many homeowners only claim one rebate when they qualify for multiple. Run through every program above with your contractor.
Where to Start
- CleanBC Better Homes: betterhomesbc.ca
- Canada Greener Homes: canada.ca/greener-homes
- Find a registered installer: Canadian Heat Pump Hub Directory
- BC Hydro rebates: bchydro.com/powersmart
Disclaimer: Rebate programs, amounts, and eligibility requirements change frequently. The information in this guide reflects publicly available details as of early 2026 but may not reflect recent changes. Always verify current program details directly with CleanBC, Natural Resources Canada, and your utility provider before making purchasing decisions. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or professional advice.