What is the $1.23 Million Property Assessment Rule?

In 2026, the CleanBC Energy Savings Program uses an asset-based limit to determine rebate eligibility. If your home's total assessed value exceeds $1,230,000, you are disqualified from the maximum $16,000 and $12,000 rebate tiers, though you may still qualify for a $10,500 rebate.

Whose income is included in the 'Household Income' calculation?

The program calculates household income based on the combined gross income of all adults (aged 18+) living in the home. You must provide a Notice of Assessment (NOA) for every adult resident to verify total household earnings.

What is the '80% Rule' for Whole-Home Rebates?

Your new heat pump system must be sized to provide primary heating for at least 80% of the home's total conditioned floor area to qualify for whole-home rebates.

Can I keep my gas furnace or electric baseboards as backup?

Yes, you can keep a fossil fuel backup in a dual-fuel configuration or maintain electric baseboards, provided the heat pump remains the primary source for 80% of the home.

Why must I use an HPCN-Certified contractor?

The BC government requires all rebate-eligible heat pumps to be installed by a member of the Home Performance Contractor Network (HPCN). Hiring a non-registered contractor makes you ineligible for provincial rebates.

Do I need to apply before or after the installation?

For the Energy Savings Program, you must pre-register and receive an Eligibility Code before you begin any work. Applying after installation leads to automatic disqualification.

Assessment Complete: You May Qualify for the BC Heat Pump Rebate ESP3 Tier

Based on your household income, you are likely eligible for the BC Energy Savings Program Level 3 (ESP3).

Connect Me With a Local HPCN Member

Your ESP3 Rebate Summary

Maximum heat pump rebate	$10,500
Electrical service upgrade	Up to $1,500
Windows and doors	Up to $9,500
Insulation	Up to $5,500
Heat pump water heater	Up to $3,500

Important: ESP3 heat pump rebates are only available to homes switching from natural gas, propane, or oil. If your home is currently heated by electric baseboards or wood, you do not qualify for the heat pump rebate at ESP3. An HPCN installer can confirm which program applies to your situation.

Property Note: To qualify for ESP3, your home must be assessed at $1,820,000 or less by BC Assessment.

What Happens Next

Step 1 — Pre-register

Visit the CleanBC participant portal and submit your income verification documents. You will receive an Eligibility Code. This must be done before any work begins.

Step 2 — Get a quote from an HPCN installer

Only contractors registered with the Home Performance Contractor Network (HPCN) can process your rebate. Use our matching service below to connect with a certified local installer.

Step 3 — Installer submits on your behalf

Your HPCN contractor handles the rebate paperwork and submits documentation within 6 months of your invoice date. The rebate is applied directly — you pay only the difference.

Connect Me With a Local HPCN Member

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the ESP3 rebate lower than ESP1 and ESP2?

The BC Energy Savings Program is designed to provide the largest rebates to lower income households. ESP3 is still one of the most generous home energy incentives available in Canada, covering a significant portion of a typical heat pump installation.

The income thresholds shown are for a family of 4 — what if my household is different?

Thresholds vary by household size. A household of 2 qualifies for ESP3 with a combined income up to $124,358. A household of 5 qualifies up to $210,528. An HPCN installer can confirm your exact tier before you pre-register.

Can I stack my ESP3 rebate with other programs?

Yes. The Canada Greener Homes Loan closed to new applicants in October 2025 and is no longer available. Ask your HPCN installer about any current financing options that may apply to your situation.

Rebate amounts and program eligibility are subject to change. Always confirm current eligibility at betterhomesbc.ca or with a registered HPCN contractor before proceeding.