Energy efficiency in homes and buildings
By improving energy use in homes, businesses and other buildings, Nova Scotians can lower their energy bills, reduce emissions, improve their health, make interior spaces more comfortable and support a growing business sector that employs thousands of people throughout the province.
About energy efficiency
Energy efficiency means using less energy to heat, cool, and power homes and buildings, while also making them more comfortable and enjoyable places to live and work.
There are many ways to improve energy efficiency, including:
- insulation and sealing – adding insulation, upgrading windows and sealing air leaks to prevent energy loss
- heating and cooling – using high-efficiency heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems (like heat pumps, smart thermostats) and regular maintenance
- appliances and lighting – choosing ENERGY STAR appliances, LED bulbs and smart power strips
- water and energy use – installing efficient water heaters, low-flow fixtures and energy monitoring systems
- clean energy – installing solar panels, geothermal heating or connecting to green energy programs
- building design and smart technology – using passive solar design, energy recovery ventilators and smart home automation
Benefits of energy efficiency
Energy efficiency offers many benefits to Nova Scotians, including:
- lower bills – using less energy lowers people’s home energy bills
- fewer emissions – if you use oil, gas or electricity from the grid, that energy generates greenhouse gases; using less of it reduces emissions
- economic growth – investments in energy efficiency create local jobs and new businesses in construction, manufacturing and services
- better living – efficient buildings provide better indoor air quality, consistent temperatures and healthier and more comfortable living environments
Nova Scotia's energy efficiency advantage
Nova Scotia is a leader in efficiency programs, community engagement and measurable results. Since 2011, with funding from provincial and federal governments, efficiency programs in Nova Scotia have:
- saved over $5.5 billion in energy costs for businesses and homeowners, including $600 million for low-income households
- prevented more than 12 mega tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, equal to removing nearly 3 million cars off the road for a year
- reached 76,000 Nova Scotia households, benefitting homeowners and renters, low-income families and those living in diverse communities
Support and training
Nova Scotia supports growing a strong sector that focuses on:
- local job creation – creating a network of over 460 businesses, including installers and builders, supporting more than 5,000 jobs in the province
- financial incentives – offering rebates, grants, and loans make efficiency upgrades easier and more affordable
- expert guidance – offering professional energy audits and personalized advice help homeowners and businesses identify the most effective improvements
- educational opportunities – training a workforce skilled in efficiency technology and practice at the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) and other institutions
Energy efficiency programs
The government assesses need, provides funding, works with partner organizations and creates policies to make sure energy efficiency programs are available to Nova Scotians. Program examples include:
- Efficiency Nova Scotia – offers rebates, financing and expert advice on energy-saving upgrades to homes and businesses
- HomeWarming Program – provides free energy assessments and upgrades for low-income homeowners (program is administered by Efficiency Nova Scotia)
- Canada Greener Homes Loan – a federal government program that offers interest-free financing to help Canadians make their homes more energy efficient and comfortable
- economic sector incentives – energy efficiency programs targeted for specific economic sectors (like the Fisheries and Aquaculture Energy Efficiency Innovation Fund)