Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program | Nova Scotia

Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program | Nova Scotia

  • Location

    Nova Scotia

  • Rebate Amount

    Up to $30,000 off a new heat pump

  • Type of Heat

    Switch from oil to electric

  • Other Conditions

    Homeownership, income-qualified

Nova Scotia residents can take advantage of substantial financial incentives to transition from oil heating to more efficient heat pump systems, saving money while reducing their environmental impact.

The incentive amount is determined by the technology installed, household income, and the number of residents in the household.

Oil To Heat Pump Affordability Program eligibility

The Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) program offers up to $30,000 in combined federal and provincial grants for eligible households:

  • Up to $15,000 from the federal government’s OHPA program
  • Up to $15,000 from Efficiency Nova Scotia

Eligible costs include the purchase and installation of an eligible heat pump, required electrical upgrades, oil tank removal or decommissioning, and any necessary system conversions.

General eligibility requirements

  • The home must be intended as a primary residence, and used year-round
  • Your home must be primarily oil heated, with proof of at least 500 litres of oil used in the prior 12 months

Income-based eligibility requirements

Additional financial assistance is available for low- and moderate-income households. Eligibility is based on net annual household income thresholds (after tax), with thresholds determined by the number of people living in the household:

  • 1 person: $37,260
  • 2 people: $77,050
  • 3 people: $98,900
  • 4 people: $120,750
  • 5 or more people: $126,500

Eligible technologies

  • Central ducted air-source heat pumps on Efficiency Nova Scotia's eligible "Rebate Eligible Units" list
  • Ductless mini-split heat pumps on Efficiency Nova Scotia's eligible "Rebate Eligible Units" list

Application process

Homeowners can submit their OHPA application online, including the following required documents:

  • Oil purchase statements for the last 12 months (showing a minimum 500 litres of oil consumption)
  • Proof of home ownership
  • Tax Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency for all household members over the age of 18

Energy evaluations and upfront payment

Pre- and post-energy evaluations are required, with a combined cost of $199. This cost is reimbursed once the grant process is completed. Applicants also receive a one-time upfront payment of $250 from the federal government.


Take the quiz to see available incentives