Clean energy program given green light to move forward in the City of Cold Lake

Residents can soon get help with the Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP), after council approved administration to begin preparing a bylaw for the program.

“We’re excited at the opportunity to help some residents make improvements to their home by offering financing options through this program,” said Mayor Craig Copeland. “Home improvements can be costly, and having the money up-front isn’t always an option.”

Alberta’s CEIP provides municipalities the opportunity to offer competitive financing to property owners for energy efficient and renewable energy upgrades. CEIP covers up to 100 per cent of the project costs and offers repayment through the property owners’ regular
property tax bill.

Property financing is attached to the property, not the property owner. If the property is sold, the new owner assumes the responsibility for the payment.

Eligible residential upgrade categories include:

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
• Renewable energy solar PV and thermal
• Water heating
• Doors, windows, insulation, and air sealing

There are currently 13 municipalities in Alberta working on implementing the CEIP.

“We’ve had a few applications for solar panels in the last couple of years,” said Copeland. “So there is some desire for energy efficient upgrades.”

Once the bylaw has been created and passed, residents can keep an eye out for further updates on how to apply for the program and its eligibility requirements.