Subsidy for Heat Accumulators | Hydro-Québec | Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, South Shore and North Shore

The Ultimate Guide to Hydro-Québec’s Provincial Rebate for Central Heating Systems with Electric Thermal Storage (ETS)

An Unmissable Opportunity for Quebec Homeowners

In a world where environmental consciousness and the quest for energy efficiency are paramount, AirGreen, a leading company in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems based in Montreal, stands out for its ability to offer innovative and environmentally friendly solutions. Our services extend throughout Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as the North Shore and South Shore regions. We are proud to spotlight Hydro-Québec's remarkable initiative: the offer targeting electric thermal storage units. This innovative program represents a significant step toward a more rational and economical energy usage in Quebec households.

What is the Offer Targeting Electric Thermal Storage?

This outstanding offer from Hydro-Québec is designed to encourage the installation of innovative electric central heating systems equipped with an electric thermal storage unit. The ETS, at the heart of this offer, is a fully electric central heating system, distinguished by its lack of fuel use. The uniqueness of this device lies in its ability to generate heat through electric elements during off-peak hours, to then store this energy in a thermal mass composed of high-density ceramic bricks. Thus, even during periods of high electricity demand, the system continues to emit a gentle and constant warmth throughout the home, without consuming additional energy. This mechanism offers an opportunity to optimize energy consumption, in alignment with a preferential rate encouraging the reduction of consumption during peak demand periods.

Benefits and Potential Savings

The use of this system offers a dual advantage: it contributes to the reduction of overall electricity consumption during periods of high demand, while providing an efficient and economical heating solution for households. By aligning with a tariff specifically designed for these technologies, consumers can achieve significant savings on their electricity bills.

Eligibility Criteria

For Installation Locations:

  • The installation must take place in Quebec, in an area covered by a Steffes authorized company.
  • The dwelling must be a detached, semi-detached, row house, or a duplex with a central air heating system serving only one housing unit.
  • It is necessary to be connected to electricity under the D or DT rate of Hydro-Québec.
  • The dwelling must have sufficient space to accommodate the ETS, typically in a basement with an accessible concrete floor.

For Participants:

  • Be the owner or co-owner of the dwelling.
  • Be registered with Hydro-Québec's Customer Space.
  • Comply with the requirements detailed in the guide provided by Hydro-Québec.

It should be noted that obtaining a rebate for the installation of an ETS excludes the possibility of a second rebate for the replacement of this equipment.

The Eligible Electric Thermal Storage Unit

To benefit from the offer, it is imperative to opt for a model of electric thermal storage unit specified by Hydro-Québec, either the model 4120 or the model 4210 Serenity from Steffes. These storage units must be programmed to avoid any heat production during peak hours, i.e., from 6 am to 9 am and from 4 pm to 8 pm, Eastern Standard Time. Furthermore, the installation must be carried out by an installer certified by Hydro-Québec.

A Step Towards Energy Innovation

This initiative from Hydro-Québec is not limited to a simple commercial offer; it represents a significant step towards the adoption of more sustainable and efficient energy solutions. By promoting the use of electric thermal storage, Hydro-Québec contributes to reducing the dependence on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and optimizing energy consumption within Quebec households.

Hydro-Québec's innovation in residential heating doesn't stop at introducing electric thermal storage (ETS) units. Indeed, Hydro-Québec pushes innovation even further by offering a significant financial incentive for those who choose to simultaneously install an ETS unit and a central heat pump. This initiative reflects Hydro-Québec's ongoing commitment to promoting efficient and environmentally friendly energy technologies.

Bonus for Installing a Central Heat Pump

An additional financial assistance of $7,000 is available for participants who combine the installation of an ETS unit with that of a central heat pump. However, it's important to note that this option is exclusive and cannot be combined with other financial aid offers provided under the LogisVert program.

Eligibility Criteria for Heat Pumps

To benefit from this bonus, the heat pumps must meet several criteria:

  • Be of air-to-air split (central) type, including matched interior and exterior coils.
  • The entire system, including the exterior unit and interior coil, must be new.
  • The heat pump must be ENERGY STAR® certified or listed as eligible under the LogisVert program, independently of the financial assistance mentioned in this list.
  • The installation of the heat pump must be done simultaneously with that of an ETS unit, must be purchased in Quebec, and installed in a dwelling that meets the offer's eligibility criteria.

Eligible Work for Heat Pump Installation

The installation work must:

  • Aim for the complete installation of an air heat pump for heating and air conditioning.
  • Be carried out by a company registered with the Quebec Enterprise Register, possessing the appropriate licenses from the Quebec Building Authority (RBQ) and being a member of the relevant professional order.

Ineligible Work

It is specified that the partial replacement of equipment, such as the coil or the device alone, is not eligible for financial assistance.

Optimizing Savings with the Flex D Rate

Associating a central heating system with an ETS unit with Hydro-Québec's Flex D rate represents a significant opportunity for consumer savings. This dynamic rate offers the possibility of achieving substantial annual savings, ranging from $200 to $300 and potentially more, compared to the standard rate.

The Flex D rate is characterized by a cost lower than the base rate during winter, except during so-called Peak Events, when the rate is higher. However, the intelligent programming of the ETS unit ensures that the central heating system is not used during these periods, thus maximizing savings without additional effort.

To optimize these savings, it is advised to efficiently manage electricity consumption during Peak Events, notably by postponing the use of non-essential electrical appliances and reducing hot water consumption.

The registration period to benefit from the Flex D rate extends from April 1st to November 20th each year, thus offering an opportune window for residents wishing to improve their energy efficiency while achieving significant savings.

This approach by Hydro-Québec, combining financial incentives and advanced technological solutions, underscores the importance given to the energy transition and energy efficiency in Quebec households. By adopting these technologies, consumers not only reduce their ecological footprint but also optimize their home comfort in an economical and sustainable way.

Hydro-Québec's commitment to promoting sustainable and economically advantageous heating solutions for Quebecers significantly manifests through the substantial amounts offered in the form of rebates. These financial aids are designed to encourage the adoption of advanced energy technologies and reduce the ecological footprint of households across the province.

Exceptional Rebate for Purchase and Installation

In this effort, Hydro-Québec offers an impressive rebate of $15,000 to participants who proceed with the purchase and installation of an electric thermal storage (ETS) unit. This initiative aims to make this technology more accessible and attractive to homeowners eager to improve the energy efficiency of their homes while achieving significant long-term savings.

Bonus for Installing a Central Heat Pump

Furthermore, Hydro-Québec enhances its support by offering an additional rebate of $7,000 to participants who choose to install a central heat pump simultaneously with their ETS unit. This offer, which applies to heat pumps meeting the specifications detailed in the eligibility guide, underscores Hydro-Québec's intention to promote integrated and high-performance heating solutions.

Terms of Rebate Payment

Once participants have completed the installation work and followed the required steps in the participation process, Hydro-Québec proceeds with the payment of these substantial rebates. The rebate is sent directly to the participant in the form of a check, thus ensuring transparency and simplicity in the process of receiving funds. To benefit from these rebates, it is crucial that participants meet all the requirements stipulated in the offer, thus ensuring full compliance with Hydro-Québec's directives.

This rebate system reflects Hydro-Québec's commitment to adopting clean and efficient energy technologies, facilitating a sustainable energy transition within Quebec households. By offering these financial incentives, Hydro-Québec not only hopes to encourage a wider adoption of eco-efficient heating systems but also to contribute to the overall reduction of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in the province.

Thus, participants are presented with an exceptional opportunity not only to modernize their heating system with cutting-edge technologies but also to achieve significant savings through Hydro-Québec's financial support. This initiative is part of a broader approach to encourage sustainable practices and energy efficiency throughout Quebec, contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for all.

To successfully navigate the rebate process offered by Hydro-Québec for the installation of an electric thermal storage (ETS) unit and, potentially, a central heat pump, participants must follow a series of clearly defined steps. This journey is designed to ensure that all requirements are met and that potential beneficiaries fully leverage the available financial assistance.

Step 1: Validate Eligibility Criteria

First and foremost, it’s crucial to verify that you meet the eligibility criteria detailed by Hydro-Québec. These criteria include the geographical location of the dwelling (must be located in the province of Quebec and in an area served by a Steffes authorized company), the type of dwelling (detached, semi-detached, row house, or a duplex), as well as having a central air heating system and an accessible basement with a concrete floor. Additionally, it is necessary to have a subscription to the D or DT rate, a communicating meter, and a Customer Space on Hydro-Québec’s website.

Step 2: Communication with Installers

Selecting a competent and authorized installer is a fundamental step. It is recommended to get in touch with a company listed on the Steffes Authorized Companies List to obtain a quote. Before starting the work, it is imperative to fill out the Eligibility Request form and submit it to Hydro-Québec to confirm your eligibility for the rebate. This form must be sent by email to the address provided by Hydro-Québec, which commits to processing your request within three weeks.

Step 3: Eligibility Confirmation and Work Completion

Following the receipt of eligibility confirmation from Hydro-Québec, you will need to agree on a date for the work with the selected installer. This step also includes the decision to register for the Flex D rate, if desired. Once the work is completed, it is necessary to settle the invoice and ask the installer to fill out the Installation Attestation form.

Step 4: Submission of Necessary Documents

Within twelve months following the receipt of eligibility confirmation, you must send a series of documents to Hydro-Québec, by email or mail, including the completed and signed Rebate Request form, the Installation Attestation, a copy of the purchase and installation invoice, as well as a photo of the heat pump (if applicable) and proof of payment. No purchase order or delivery slip will be accepted in lieu of the invoice.

Step 5: Obtaining the Rebate and Registering for the Flex D Rate

If all requirements are met, Hydro-Québec will proceed with the rebate, which can reach $15,000 for the purchase and installation of the ETS unit, and an additional $7,000 for the heat pump (if applicable). For those who have chosen to register for the Flex D rate, Hydro-Québec will make the rate change as soon as possible, which may include replacing the meter for DT rate (dual-energy) subscribers.

These steps demonstrate Hydro-Québec's commitment to promoting eco-efficient and economically advantageous heating solutions. By following this process, participants can not only benefit from substantial financial assistance but also contribute to the collective effort to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in Quebec.

In conclusion, Hydro-Québec's initiative offers a remarkable opportunity for homeowners across Quebec to actively participate in the energy transition towards more sustainable and economical solutions. The substantial rebates for the purchase and installation of electric thermal storage (ETS) units and central heat pumps underline the commitment to increased energy efficiency and a significant reduction in the ecological footprint of Quebec households.

In this context, choosing our company, AirGreen, for your HVAC system installation needs represents a wise decision. As a trusted company operating in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as the South Shore and North Shore, we are dedicated to providing top-tier heating and air conditioning solutions that not only meet Hydro-Québec's requirements but also your expectations for comfort and energy efficiency.

Our expertise and commitment to quality and customer service position us as the ideal partner for your installation projects. By choosing AirGreen, you opt for a company that understands the importance of adopting clean and efficient technologies, while benefiting from professional support at every step of your project.

We invite you to trust AirGreen for your HVAC installations in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, and on the South and North Shores. Together, let's participate in this commendable initiative by Hydro-Québec and move towards a more sustainable future, while improving the comfort of our homes. At AirGreen, your satisfaction and the energy efficiency of your home are our priority.