LAC LA BICHE – Lac La Biche County homeowners looking to make energy-efficiency improvements to their homes have another way to cover the upfront cost.

Through the Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP), eligible property owners can finance qualifying upgrades and repay the cost over time through their property tax bill.

Rather than paying the full cost of improvements upfront, approved homeowners enter into a Clean Energy Improvement Agreement with Lac La Biche County. Repayment is then spread over the lifespan of the upgrades according to the terms of that agreement.

How does the program work?

The process begins with pre-qualification. Property owners complete a form through the CEIP program, with Alberta Municipalities and Lac La Biche County confirming whether both the applicant and property meet the basic requirements.

Once pre-qualified, homeowners schedule an EnerGuide home evaluation to assess the home’s current energy performance and help identify potential improvements.

The homeowner then selects a qualified contractor and submits a project application to Alberta Municipalities.

If the project is approved, agreements are signed outlining the financing terms and the responsibilities of the homeowner, contractor and Alberta Municipalities.

Work can then begin.

After the improvements are completed, homeowners submit their completion documentation and have a second EnerGuide evaluation conducted. The post-project assessment provides an updated energy rating based on the improvements made to the home.

The property’s tax bill then repays the final project cost under the terms of the Clean Energy Improvement Agreement.

Property owners considering the program should complete the pre-qualification process before beginning their project.

For more information, residents can contact Lac La Biche County at 780-623-6815 or 780-623-6816.