Kamloops Celebrates a Year of Energy-Smart Success with Retrofit Assist

It’s been one year since Retrofit Assist launched in Kamloops, and the results are shining bright! 

The City of Kamloops partnered with the concierge-style program to offer residents guidance on making their homes more energy-efficient, comfortable, and climate-resilient—one upgrade at a time.

In just 12 months, Retrofit Assist Kamloops received 115 applications, completed 40 EnerGuide evaluations and 7 energy-efficiency retrofit projects, and welcomed 18 new Energy Savings Program participants, who qualify for extra financial assistance with their home upgrades through the provincial CleanBC program.

So far, Kamloops residents have received $58,301 in rebates. On average, Kamloops Retrofit Assist participants saw their energy use drop by 37% after completing upgrades, such as replacing a gas furnace with a dual-fuel heat pump system, insulation upgrades, switching to high-efficiency doors and windows, and adding solar panels.

“The goal is to make retrofits less daunting and time consuming for residents,” said Mariah Byers, Retrofit Assist Program Manager. “Think of Retrofit Assist as your personal guide through the home energy upgrade process, from that first spark of curiosity, to navigating incentives, to the final installation.”

When residents enroll, an EnerGuide evaluation is conducted to identify the most effective upgrades. From there, Retrofit Assist experts outline eligible rebates, connect homeowners with authorized contractors, and support them through the rebate application process. 

“Once retrofits are complete, participants often find their homes feel more comfortable year-round, are quieter, and have cleaner air circulating through heat pumps—even during wildfire season,” added Byers. “Combine that with major improvements in energy efficiency, and it’s easy to see why so many people are making these changes.”

The City’s partnership with Retrofit Assist supports the municipality’s goal of becoming a zero-carbon community by 2050. 

“This work aligns with the City’s Community Climate Action Plan target of retrofitting 2% of homes each year to ensure they are energy-efficient and climate-resilient,” said Glen Cheetham, the City’s Climate and Sustainability Manager. “Having Retrofit Assist’s guidance makes it easier for residents to take the next step and help improve our community’s housing for future generations.”

Did you know?

  • While there is no charge for the Retrofit Assist guidance, homeowners must cover the cost of upgrade work on their home. 
  • For a limited time, while funding lasts, Retrofit Assist is subsidizing the cost of EnerGuide evaluations for participants. The cost to residents is just $99 plus tax for the pre-retrofit Evaluation—a savings of over $500!
  • Retrofit Assist is open to renters and homeowners, regardless of whether the home is your primary or secondary residence. 
  • The not-for-profit Community Energy Association also offers the Retrofit Assist program for residents in Whistler, Vernon, Rossland, Squamish, and the East Kootenay region.

Whether you’re planning a home renovation, facing the replacement of an aging furnace, or considering energy upgrades, discover how Retrofit Assist makes the process simpler and more accessible. 

Visit RetrofitAssist.ca/Kamloops or call 236-576-2502 for details.