Ontario residents can claim huge government-paid discounts on kitchen appliances

Ontario residents will be able to claim government-funded rebates on major household appliances as the province expands its energy-saving programs to help cut down on electricity use and reduce costs. 

On Thursday, Doug Ford's Ontario PC government introduced new rebates for energy-efficient home appliances as part of its Home Renovation Savings Program (HRSP), which will grant eligible households rebates of up to $200 off for a variety of energy-efficient appliances, such as refrigerators, laundry machines, and freezers, starting this fall. 

"With electricity demand rising, keeping more money in people's pockets has never been more important," said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines.

"By expanding Ontario's energy savings programs to include energy-efficient appliances, families save money and Ontario saves power – the ultimate win-win."

The province notes that electricity demand is anticipated to increase significantly over the next few decades, and says that maximizing the available grid capacity is "essential to reducing strain and lowering energy costs." 

As part of the program, appliances can be purchased from any retailer, whether online or in person, with rebates issued within 60 days of approval. The province says all homes on Ontario's electricity grid will be eligible for the program (which includes condos and apartments) as long as the appliance meets the eligibility criteria and replaces another less energy-efficient appliance. 

"Many homes and businesses still use inefficient appliances and industrial processes, which increases energy consumption and drives up costs," the province says. "This presents a clear need for accessible, cost-saving solutions to help Ontarians cut energy use, lower bills, and ensure a reliable power system for the future." 

Ontario's energy savings programs are part of its 12-year, nearly $11 billion Energy Efficiency Framework, which is the largest investment in energy-efficiency programs in Canadian history. 

The framework is expected to reduce Ontario's peak demand by 3,000 megawatts by 2036, which is equivalent to taking three million homes off the grid.