How HELP works
OpenHELP lends Saskatoon homeowners between $1,000 and $40,000 for energy efficiency, renewable energy and water-saving upgrades, or up to $60,000 with proof that the project will cut home energy use by at least 50%. Loans are repaid through property taxes, can be paid off early without penalty, and are registered as an interest on the property title, so the balance must be repaid or taken over by the buyer when the home is sold.
- What it pays
- Up to $60,000 · Loan
- Energy, renewable and water upgrades$1,000 to $40,000
- EnerGuide evaluation rebate$1,000
- Administration fee waiver$750 fee waived
- Who qualifies
- Individual owner of an existing single-family home in Saskatoon (detached, semi-detached, row house or non-apartment condo); homes under construction are not eligible
- No outstanding or delinquent property taxes; City utility accounts and other charges in good standing
- Pre- and post-retrofit EnerGuide evaluations by a registered energy advisor
- Sign the Deferral Agreement before paying deposits or starting work; products must meet program specifications
- Steps, in order
- Read the HELP program guide on saskatoon.ca
- Submit the initial online application with your property tax roll number
- Book the pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation, choose upgrades and submit your funding request
- Sign the Deferral Agreement, then hire contractors or buy DIY materials
- Submit completion documents and the post-retrofit evaluation; repayments start on your property tax bill
- Energy assessment
- Yes, before work starts
- Run by
- City of Saskatoon