Are You Eligible for CEIP’s Clean Energy Incentives in Calgary?

Solar panels Calgary are more than just a green upgrade—they’re a chance to shield yourself from skyrocketing electricity bills and rising energy costs. 

In Calgary, among the sunniest cities in Canada, you can harness CEIP’s (Clean Energy Improvement Program) interest-free financing when installing solar energy systems that can cut your monthly power bill.

With Calgary’s goal to have rooftop PV offset 15% of residential electricity usage by 2030 and reach 60% by 2050, the time to opt for renewable energy solutions is now. 

This guide covers CEIP essentials, from eligibility and financing options to the benefits of residential solar installation. Read on to find out if you can benefit from this opportunity and secure a more energy-efficient future.

About the CEIP Program 

The Clean Energy Improvement Program provides a unique financing solution for Calgarians looking to upgrade their home’s electrical system by installing solar panels. By covering up to 100% of project costs, CEIP allows you to maximize Calgary’s PV potential while reducing your electricity bill and supporting a more sustainable future. 

With Alberta’s Bill 10 and Calgary’s Bylaw 53M2021 in place, the program has gained widespread support to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by targeting residential and commercial properties.

Key Features

• Full Financing Coverage: The program offers financing for up to 100% of the costs associated with solar panel installations. Also includes other solar energy solutions, like energy-efficient windows, insulation, and more.
• Competitive Interest Rates: The rate is set at 3.25%, making it easier to install solar panels and produce power without breaking the bank.
• Flexible Repayment Options: Homeowners can repay over terms of up to 20 years, with the ability to repay in full at any time without penalty.
• Property-Attached Financing: The financing is tied to the property (house), not the owner. If you sell your home, you have the option to transfer the balance to the buyer or repay it without penalty.
• 10% Incentive: Eligible projects can receive an incentive of up to 10% of total costs, reducing the financial burden further.

Essential Advantages

Repayments are conveniently included in your property tax bill to simplify the process. This approach allows for broader municipal involvement and increases accessibility for residents across Calgary.

Owners like you can contribute to a healthier planet by supporting renewable solutions to maximize energy consumption while reducing electricity costs.

Whether upgrading to PV or adding insulation, CEIP helps create energy independence and positions Calgary as a leader in Western Canada’s clean power transition.

How the CEIP Program Works

CEIP simplifies installations by guiding homeowners through an eight-step process:

1. Pre-Qualification: Read the Terms and Conditions, then complete a Pre-Qualification Form to ensure eligibility.
2. EnerGuide Home Evaluation: Schedule an evaluation to assess your home’s power performance and identify upgrade opportunities.
3. Project Application: Choose a qualified provider, plan your solar system, and submit your application to Alberta Municipalities.
4. Agreements: Once approved, sign the Clean Energy Improvement and Project Agreements.
5. Project Installation: Work with your installer to complete the upgrades, such as panels.
6. Upgrade Completion: Submit Upgrade Completion Forms as work is finished.
7. Post-Evaluation: Receive an updated EnerGuide rating for your upgraded home.
8. Repayment: Pay for your project via your property tax bill.

Eligibility Overview

The program is open to property owners in municipalities that participate in the program, including Calgary. Eligible properties include residential, commercial, and municipal buildings that meet certain criteria:

• Properties must be located in participating municipalities in Western Canada.
• Property owners must be up-to-date with property tax payments.
• Projects must adhere to the standards for solar panel installation.
• Only licensed companies approved by CEIP can complete upgrades.
• Homes should be in safe condition, insured, and free from financial issues such as foreclosure.

Important Note: CEIP financing is available for residential properties undergoing upgrades—not new builds. Eligible properties include single-family homes, semi-detached houses, row houses, townhomes, and certain units in multi-unit residential buildings.

What are the Eligible Upgrades?

Power efficiency retrofits that qualify for the funding include:

Application Requirements

Calgary’s Clean Energy Improvement Program will commence on November 5, 2024, at 9 a.m. Make sure to secure the following requirements, as this intake round will only accept 100 applications.

Pre-qualification

• Proof of liability insurance on the property exceeding $1,000,000.
• If your property has secured debt, you must confirm payments are up-to-date and may need to provide proof to the Municipality.
• Contact details for all property owners listed on the title (if applicable).
• Confirmation that you have reviewed CEIP’s terms and conditions.

Note that all applications are reviewed by the municipality in the order received, with the discretion to approve or deny any application. Upon approval, you may proceed to the project application stage.

Application Intakes 

The program has scheduled several intake rounds for pre-qualification applications. Below is a summary of the intake rounds and their respective opening dates, along with the number of applications:

Project Application

• You must complete the pre-qualification process.
• An EnerGuide assessment is required (eligible for coverage under the loan).
• Obtain a project cost estimate for equipment and installation from a qualified contractor.
• You must submit manufacturer specifications from the contractor along with other required documentation.
• If relevant, approval from the condominium association is necessary.
• If applicable, all property owners listed on the title must sign the Project Application Form.

The program requires an EnerGuide home evaluation or similar assessment for properties. Approved upgrades include solar systems to cut greenhouse gas emissions. You must comply with local bylaws, regulations, and standards and are responsible for ongoing maintenance and performance tracking.

Program Agreements

Once the Project Application Form is approved, the administrator will provide you with the agreements. All property owners listed on the title and the Municipality must sign the agreement.

Additional requirements should be thoroughly researched for your specific municipality. After the agreements are in place, the qualified contractor can complete the retrofit. Once the work is done, a verification process takes place before the Municipality releases payment.

Take Advantage of the Solar Power Financing 

Now is the ideal time to take advantage of the financing for your solar panel system. This initiative offers full project financing and competitive interest rates so you can improve power efficiency, reduce energy bills, and prepare for a better future.

As many homeowners opt for solar panels in Calgary installed in their properties, achieving net-zero by 2050 is possible. Besides, turning to renewables makes a smart investment for homeowners. So, don’t miss out—contact MAG Solar today to explore how you can benefit from CEIP financing and transition to a sustainable solution.