The City of Kingston has released the very first annual report for the Better Homes Kingston program. The program has exceeded expectations with 678 applications within its first year, with the original target being 500. Other highlights from the annual report include over $12 million of loan funding being currently allocated to projects, and participating homeowners responding with high satisfaction scores when surveyed.

The Better Homes Kingston program was launched on April 11, 2022, with the goal of offering Kingston homeowners the opportunity to reduce their home’s energy use and improve water conservation, especially focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The program supports the city’s goal to “Lead Environmental Stewardship and Climate Action,” a pillar in their 2023-26 Strategic Plan, by encouraging homeowners to undertake projects which will improve their homes energy efficiency. In addition to the physical services they provide, they also provide Energy Coaching Services so participants can maximize their impact and determine what energy saving measures are best for them.

As for how the program helps homeowners finance these improvements, participants in the program can receive up to $40,000 in zero-interest loans to undergo alterations that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. There is also a section within the report which outlines the program’s current equity considerations for low income households, stating they will also continue to work on ways to make this program more inclusive as they continue into their second year. The program offers access to loan financing, incentives and free ongoing support.

“The early success of the Better Homes Kingston program demonstrates the deep commitment of our community to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build climate resilience,” says Julie Salter-Keane, Manager of the City’s Climate Leadership Division. “We’re thrilled to see such interest in the program in its first year and we look forward to exploring the future of this program in the coming months.”

City Council’s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan also includes a commitment to evaluate the long-term potential of the program. The program has a goal of retrofitting between 25 and 50 per cent of existing pre-1991 constructed one-family homes by 2040.

You can read the full report posted by the City of Kingston here.

Listen below to the story with an interview with Project Manager in the City’s Climate Leadership Division, Soren Christianson: