For contractors
Helping Waterloo Region homeowners complete energy-saving retrofits
RetrofitWR depends on local contractors to deliver high-quality home energy upgrades. This page outlines how the program works, what’s expected, and how we support you.
About RetrofitWR
RetrofitWR is a financing program that helps GrandBridge Energy customers in Cambridge and North Dumfries to complete energy-efficient retrofits through low-interest loans from the Region of Waterloo.
The Region of Waterloo provides a low-interest loan (2.5% fixed rate, up to 15 years) to allow the homeowner to undertake the renovations. At least 70% of the funding must be used for energy efficient measures, and up to 30% can be used for other eligible costs.
Contractors play a key role in helping homeowners plan and complete eligible upgrades that achieve at least a 25% energy reduction.
How the program works for contractors
The program is open to all contractors, with no requirement to be on an approved contractor list.
Before You Quote
Homeowners must complete the early steps before you provide pricing:
- Complete a loan application to verify the person and the property qualify for a loan
- Complete a pre-retrofit EnerGuide assessment
- Homeowner receives guidance from an Energy Coach to plan their renovation
Providing Quotes
Homeowner contacts contractors to request quotes:
- You provide quotes directly to the homeowner
- Homeowner submits your quotes with their Funding Request Form
- Funding is allocated based on eligible measures and program rules
Renovation Phase
Once the homeowner signs their loan agreement:
- They receive 40% of project costs upfront
- They hire the contractor(s) of their choice to complete the renovation
- You complete the work as quoted
- All required building permits must be obtained
After Renovations
You provide final invoices directly to the homeowner:
- Homeowner completes a post-retrofit energy assessment
- Homeowner submits final invoices and the Project Completion Form
- Remaining 60% of project costs are released
Eligible Measures
Contractors can deliver a wide range of upgrades, including:
Building envelope
- Attic, exterior wall, basement insulation
- Air sealing and weather stripping
- Air barriers
- Windows, exterior doors, skylights
Mechanical systems
- Connected thermostats
- Energy or heat recovery ventilators
- Air source and ground source heat pumps
- Electrical wiring and panel upgrades
- Electrical and load management equipment
Water heating
- Electric or heat pump water heaters
- Solar hot water systems
- Drain water heat recovery systemsr
Solar panels and batteries
- Rooftop solar photovoltaic systems
- Battery storage devices
Energy Star appliances
- Refrigerators and freezers
- Clothes washers and dryers
- Dishwashers
- Induction cooktops and ranges
- Lighting fixtures and controls
Health and safety
- Mould mitigation
- Asbestos removal
Permits and assessments
- Energy assessment (EnerGuide) costs
- Building permit costs
Incentives homeowners may receive
Contractors don’t administer incentives, but knowing them helps you guide clients. RetrofitWR incentives are deducted from the loan balance after renovations are complete.
Heat Pump Incentives
- Homeowners receive $2,500 when you install a qualified ducted heat pump system
- Homeowners receive $1,000 per indoor unit when you install ductless mini-split heat pumps, up to a maximum of $2,500.
Incentives for Income-Eligible Households
Additional incentives are available for income-eligible households based on the energy savings they achieve. The incentive is provided on a sliding scale, starting at $1,000 for 25% energy savings up to $3,000 for 50% or more energy savings.
RetrofitWR incentives can be stacked with external incentive programs such as the Home Renovation Savings Program. Speaking with your client about incentive programs early will help them meet all program requirements.
Building Permits
Depending on what renovations your client is planning, they may need a building permit. The loan approval does not replace the need for a building permit. Building permits are issued by the local municipalities. More information is available here for Cambridge and North Dumfries. Work completed without proper permits will not be financed.
Training and Workforce Development
Training can help you and your team upskill. You can also look to hire workers with these certifications.
- Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) – LEED Certifications
- Passive House Canada – Certification
- Built Green Canada
- Building Knowledge Canada
- Canadian Construction Association – Low Carbon Training Program
- Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI)
- Builders for Climate Action (Embodied Carbon)
- Assiniboine College – Green Building & Retrofitting Certificate
- Canadian Institute for Energy Training (CIET) – Energy Advisor and Energy Manager training
How we support contractors
- Dedicated program email support: info@retrofitwr.ca
- Phone support 519-744-9799
- Energy coaching for complex projects
- Marketing materials (handouts/info cards)
How you can support the program
- Tell your customers in Cambridge and North Dumfries about RetrofitWR
- Share information with your sales teams
- Direct homeowners to the program website
- Contact us with questions or issues
Have questions?