image of a light house in nova scotia

Heat Pump Rebates & Grants in Nova Scotia – Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program

  • 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 Scotians who heat their home with oil can access up to $30,000 in rebates and grants through the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program by switching to an energy-efficient heat pump. By upgrading their home’s heating system from oil heating to an electric heat pump, Nova Scotia homeowners can reduce heating costs and improve energy efficiency in the long term. 

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

Heat Pump Rebates & Grants for Nova Scotians – Eligibility for the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program 

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 installation of an energy-efficient heat pump, required electrical panel upgrades, oil tank removal or decommissioning, and system conversions needed to switch from oil to electric heating. 

Homeowners looking to switch from oil heating to a more efficient heating solution are perfect candidates for this program. To qualify for this heat pump incentive, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria: 

General eligibility requirements 

The program applies to homeowners in Nova Scotia whose homes are used year-round as their primary residence 

To qualify, applicants must heat their home with oil and provide proof of at least 500 litres of heating oil used in the past year. 

Income-based eligibility requirements 

Additional financial assistance is available for low- and moderate-income households installing electric heat pumps. 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 pump systems, listed on Efficiency Nova Scotia's "Rebate Eligible Units" list 
  • Ductless mini-split heat pumps listed on Efficiency Nova Scotia's "Rebate Eligible Units" list 

How to apply for the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program in Nova Scotia 

Homeowners can submit their OHPA application online. They must include the following required documents: 

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

Energy evaluations and upfront payment 

As part of the qualification process, a certified energy advisor will conduct a home energy assessment before and after installation. The combined $199 fee for pre- and post-energy audits is fully reimbursed once the home energy grant process is complete. 

Applicants also receive a one-time upfront payment of $250 from the federal government. 

Take the next step toward energy-efficient heating 

Switching to a heat pump is a smart choice for anyone who wants to lower energy bills, reduce carbon emissions, and stay comfortable year-round.  

With up to $30,000 in combined heat pump grants and rebates available in Nova Scotia, eligible homeowners can access heat pumps for low-income households and support for energy efficiency upgrades. 

As a preferred contractor for Efficiency Nova Scotia, 1Click Heating & Cooling is your trusted source for professional heat pump installation and guidance on heat pump incentive programs supported by the Government of Canada and Natural Resources Canada.    

Whether you're learning about the HomeWarming program or ready to get started with the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program, we're here to help. 

Want to learn more about how heat pumps work and which type of system is right for your home? Visit our page on heat pumps in Nova Scotia to explore your options. 

1Click Heating and Cooling proudly serves Nova Scotia from our local office in Mount Uniacke, located at 30 Lady Mary Way, offering expert heat pump and HVAC solutions tailored for energy-efficient living. Contact us at 1-800-458-1289 or email sales@1clickheat.com.

Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program in Nova Scotia FAQs

What is the $5,000 heat pump rebate in Nova Scotia? 

The $5,000 heat pump rebate is offered through Efficiency Nova Scotia's Home Energy Assessment program, which can be combined with the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program and other Efficiency Nova Scotia rebates to achieve a total possible incentive amount of $30,000. 

How long does it take to get a heat pump rebate in Nova Scotia? 

Rebate processing times can vary, but most homeowners receive their heat pump rebate within a few weeks to a few months after installation and final approval. Check our blog for details on the application steps. 

What is the federal heat pump rebate in Canada? 

In Nova Scotia, homeowners who are eligible can receive up to $15,000 in federal grants through the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program, plus an additional $15,000 in provincial rebates from Efficiency Nova Scotia. That’s up to $30,000 in total incentives. Learn more about how to qualify on our blog

Is the Canada Greener Homes Grant still accepting new applications? 

No, the Canada Greener Homes Grant is no longer accepting new applications as of February 2024. However, eligible Nova Scotia homeowners can still access up to $30,000 in combined federal and provincial rebates through the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program. 

Can you finance a heat pump in Nova Scotia? 

Yes, homeowners in Nova Scotia can finance a heat pump through lenders offering affordable monthly payment plans. Many HVAC companies, including 1Click Heating & Cooling, offer affordable financing options to help make switching to an energy-efficient heat pump more accessible. Curious to know what the monthly payments would be for your heat pump project? Get a free online estimate using our pricing tool.  

What rebates are available in NS? 

Nova Scotia homeowners can access up to $30,000 in combined rebates and grants through the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) program, which includes $15,000 from the federal government and $15,000 from Efficiency Nova Scotia. These rebates help cover heat pump installation, electrical upgrades, and oil tank removal. Learn more by reading our blog

Can you claim heat pumps on taxes in Nova Scotia? 

No, heat pump purchases are not currently eligible for direct tax deductions in Nova Scotia. However, homeowners can access generous rebates and grants of up to $30,000 through provincial and federal programs to help offset the cost of installing a heat pump. 

What is the cost of a heat pump installation in Nova Scotia? 

The cost of installation will depend on a number of factors, such as whether you are installing a central ducted heat pump or a ductless mini-split. Installation costs are also influenced by your existing electrical system, which may require some updates in order to accommodate an electric heat pump. The good news is that when you purchase a heat pump from 1Click, installation is always included. 

How do I apply for the OHPA program? 

To apply for the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) program in Nova Scotia, homeowners must submit proof of homeownership, oil consumption (minimum 500 litres in the past 12 months), and household income. The application is completed online and includes a home energy assessment. To learn more about this program read our blog

Who qualifies for the Efficiency Nova Scotia rebate? 

Homeowners in Nova Scotia who use oil as their primary heating source and meet income eligibility criteria may qualify for Efficiency Nova Scotia rebates. The home must be a year-round primary residence, and applicants must switch to an approved energy-efficient heat pump system. Read our blog to learn more or speak with one of our specialists for further assistance.  

Is there a free heat pump program for seniors in Nova Scotia? 

Seniors who own their home, heat with oil, and meet income eligibility may qualify for up to $30,000 in combined federal and provincial rebates through the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program and Efficiency Nova Scotia. While often referred to as a "free heat pump" program, it is based on financial eligibility and coverage of qualified expenses. Learn more on our blog


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