Energy efficiency earns a bigger discount with CMHC-insured financing
Courtesy of Calgary Herald
Potential buyers have a new reason for turning to a home with energy-saving features.
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. has increased its Green Home premium refund to as much as 25 per cent, depending on the level of energy efficiency in the home, says the federal agency. Prior to that, the refund topped out at 10 per cent.
“CMHC is committed to fostering energy-efficient housing in Canada,” says Steven Mennill, CMHC’s senior vice-president, insurance.
The partial premium refund for CMHC-insured borrowers, who buy or build homes constructed with green-minded methods and materials, was introduced in 2004.
“Improving energy efficiency not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also lowers the cost of owning and maintaining a home,” adds Mennill.
To receive the new maximum refund, the home must be certified through R-2000, which a program through the Canadian Home Builders’ Association and the Office of Energy Efficiency of Natural Resources Canada.
Certification through national programs such as Built Green Canada, Energy Star and LEED Canada for Homes can earn a 15-per-cent refund.