Heat Pumps Nova Scotia
Updated for 2026

Nova Scotia Heat Pump Rebates & Incentives

Find your best path to rebates or affordability programs, with official links and scam-resistant guidance.

Last updated: December 19, 2025

Eligibility Finder

Pick your home's heating type and income range to see the most common rebate paths.

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OHPA uses household after-tax income.

HARP uses net income thresholds (see the program page).

If you are unsure, use your CRA Notice of Assessment and confirm on the official program site.

Independent Consumer Safety Guide

HeatPumpsNovaScotia.ca is an independent consumer resource. We are not a government agency, not Efficiency Nova Scotia, and not a contractor.

  • Official rules and funding amounts are determined by program administrators.
  • We do not accept applications or guarantee rebate approval.
  • Always verify eligibility on official program sites before purchasing.
  • If an official source conflicts with our guide, the official source is correct.

Active programs and pathways

Source-backed details with official links for each program.

2026 Audit-First Mandatory Rule

As of January 1, 2026, the era of standalone heat pump rebates is over. You must complete a Home Energy Assessment (Audit) before installation to receive any standard Efficiency NS rebates.

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Nova Scotia heat pump rebates (Efficiency NS + OHPA)

Efficiency Nova Scotia
Main homeowner rebates: Efficiency Nova Scotia (cold-climate ductless, income-dependent) and OHPA (federal). Keep written quotes with model numbers, load calculations, and your installer's registration/permit details. Preferred Partner or manufacturer-trained installers can speed up paperwork. Keep receipts and serial numbers for inspections.
Verify details on official program pages
Program details

Consumer safety: Eligibility basics (Nova Scotia)

Natural Resources Canada (Government of Canada)
  • A Green Heat rebate application form states homes must be an existing single-family home at least six months past occupancy permit and used year-round.

  • NRCan’s OHPA eligibility criteria includes providing proof of purchasing at least 500 litres of heating oil delivered within the last 12 months.

  • Nova Scotia consumer guidance says direct sales include a 10-day cooling-off period and indicates direct sellers must be licensed.


    • Sources:
  • https://www.colliehvac.ca/uploads/1/1/9/0/119088026/green-heat-heat-pump-rebateappform.pdf

  • https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/homes/canada-greener-homes-initiative/oil-heat-pump-affordability-program/eligibility-criteria/24775

  • https://novascotia.ca/sns/paal/consumers/paal269.asp
    • Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Consumer safety: Program changes and deadlines (2025)

    Natural Resources Canada (Government of Canada)
  • The Canada Greener Homes Loan portal states it is closed and says the last day to apply was October 1, 2025.

  • NRCan states existing Greener Homes Grant participants have until December 31, 2025 to request their grant.


    • Sources:
  • https://cghli.ca/en/

  • https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/homes/canada-greener-homes-initiative/how-the-grant-process-works/23443
    • Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Consumer safety: Typical required paperwork

    Efficiency Nova Scotia (Green Heat rebate form)
  • A Green Heat rebate application lists typical required documents: signed application, detailed invoice, photos of installed indoor and outdoor components, and a recent electric bill.

  • Nova Scotia states wiring permits are required for new electrical installations or modifications to existing electrical installations.

  • A manufacturer warranty example notes proof of installation date by a licensed HVAC contractor is required for warranty service and mentions documents such as a sales receipt or building permit.


    • Sources:
  • https://www.colliehvac.ca/uploads/1/1/9/0/119088026/green-heat-heat-pump-rebateappform.pdf

  • https://novascotia.ca/sns/access/permits/wiring-permits.asp

  • https://www.mitsubishitechinfo.ca/sites/default/files/MESCA_M%26P%20Series%20Warranty%202016_EN%20v2.pdf
    • Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Consumer safety: Nova Scotia rebates and incentives

    Efficiency Nova Scotia
  • Efficiency Nova Scotia’s Home Energy Assessment is presented as the starting point for provincial rebates up to $5,000 and references stacking with federal Greener Homes incentives.

  • Efficiency Nova Scotia states eligible homeowners can receive up to $15,000 through the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program when switching from oil heating to electric heat pumps.

  • NRCan states the Canada Greener Homes Grant is closed to new applicants and that Efficiency Nova Scotia delivers it for Nova Scotia homeowners.


    • Sources:
  • https://www.efficiencyns.ca/programs-rebates/home-energy-assessment/

  • https://www.efficiencyns.ca/programs-rebates/oil-to-heat-pump-affordability-program

  • https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/homes/canada-greener-homes-initiative/canada-greener-homes-grant-nova-scotia/23469
    • Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    OHPA income thresholds: how the median income table works (and why you must verify before applying)

    Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)

    - Facts: OHPA uses a median income threshold table (by province/territory and household size) to determine whether a household qualifies.
    - Action: before applying, check the official OHPA median income table for Nova Scotia and your household size, then confirm your “adjusted after-tax income” matches the program definition.
    - What to keep: a copy or screenshot of the threshold table version you used (date-stamped) plus the income documents you used to calculate your eligibility.
    - What changed for 2026: Income tables can be updated; re-check the official table during the month you apply.
    - Sources:
    - https://prod-natural-resources.azure.cloud.nrcan-rncan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/homes/canada-greener-homes-initiative/oil-heat-pump-affordability-program-income-thresholds
    Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program (OHPA) in Nova Scotia: what it is and who qualifies

    Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)

    - Facts: OHPA is a Government of Canada program delivered with provincial partners; it is designed for homeowners switching from oil heating to an eligible heat pump.
    - Funding (program-level): NRCan states up to $10,000 federal support, plus up to an additional $5,000 where participating provinces/territories top up, plus a $250 bonus for eligible participants.
    - Eligibility basics (procedural): confirm you own and occupy the home as your primary residence, you currently heat with oil, and you meet the program income threshold rules for your household size.
    - Documentation to expect: proof of oil heating (for example, recent delivery receipts), proof of ownership/primary residence, itemized invoices showing model numbers, and program approval paperwork.
    - What changed for 2026: No 2026-specific change found in the primary sources captured here; treat program details as update-sensitive and re-check the official OHPA page before publishing numeric thresholds.
    - Sources:
    - https://prod-natural-resources.azure.cloud.nrcan-rncan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/homes/canada-greener-homes-initiative/oil-heat-pump-affordability-program/24775
    - https://www.efficiencyns.ca/programs-rebates/oil-to-heat-pump-affordability-program
    Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Canada Greener Homes Grant in Nova Scotia: closed to new applicants (status check for 2026)

    Efficiency Nova Scotia

    - Facts: Efficiency Nova Scotia indicates the Canada Greener Homes Grant is closed to new applicants in Nova Scotia (closure referenced as 2024-02-05).
    - Action for 2026 homeowners: if you never applied before the closure date, assume you cannot start a new Greener Homes Grant file in Nova Scotia. Instead, check current Efficiency NS and NRCan programs for replacements.
    - What changed for 2026: The key change is the absence of new CGHG intake in Nova Scotia, so your rebate planning must not assume the federal grant is available.
    - Sources:
    - https://www.efficiencyns.ca/home/canada-greener-homes-grant-updates
    Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Canada Greener Homes Loan: new applications stopped (what this means for 2026 installs)

    Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)

    - Facts: NRCan states the Canada Greener Homes Loan stopped accepting new applications on 2025-10-01.
    - If you already applied: NRCan indicates existing applicants can continue through their application portal.
    - What changed for 2026: A major shift is the loss of the federal zero-interest loan for new applicants, increasing the risk of third-party financing scams promising 'rebate loans'.
    - Sources:
    - https://natural-resources.canada.ca/energy-efficiency/homes/canada-greener-homes-initiative/canada-greener-homes-loan/24286
    - https://cghli.ca
    Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Efficiency Nova Scotia Home Heating System Rebates: application deadline and 2026 planning

    Efficiency Nova Scotia

    - Facts: Efficiency Nova Scotia states you can apply to the Heating System Rebates Program until 2025-12-31.
    - Action: if your install is planned for 2026, check the current Efficiency NS program list first because this program may be replaced or changed.
    - What to save: screenshots or PDFs of current program terms and the application confirmation.
    - What changed for 2026: The key planning change is that the published application window ends in 2025, so homeowners must verify the replacement program before committing.
    - Sources:
    - https://www.efficiencyns.ca/programs-rebates/home-heating-system-rebates
    Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    OHPA payments in Nova Scotia: direct-to-contractor model (how to confirm your payment path)

    Efficiency Nova Scotia

    - Facts: Efficiency Nova Scotia states it introduced a Direct to Contractor Payment Model (June 9, 2025) for OHPA delivery in Nova Scotia.
    - Action: ask your installer and Efficiency NS to confirm whether funds will be paid to you or directly to the contractor for your specific approval, and what documents the contractor must submit to receive payment.
    - Homeowner safety: never pay the full project cost upfront based only on a promise that 'the rebate will cover it'. Wait for official approval and keep copies of approval emails/forms.
    - What changed for 2026: Homeowners must not assume they will receive a cash advance; confirm payment routing in writing before you sign.
    - Sources:
    - https://www.efficiencyns.ca/programs-rebates/oil-to-heat-pump-affordability-program
    Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Home Energy Assessment (HEA) Pathway

    Efficiency Nova Scotia
    As of January 1, 2026, the Home Energy Assessment is the mandatory first step for all non-low-income heat pump rebates in Nova Scotia.

    The Process


    1. Book Audit: Schedule a pre-retrofit assessment with an Efficiency NS Energy Advisor ($199 fee, potentially waived for moderate income).
    2. Receive Report: Get a list of recommended upgrades (RUR).
    3. Install Upgrades: Hire a contractor to install recommended equipment (must be ENERGY STAR / Cold Climate).
    4. Post-Audit: Complete a final verification audit.
    5. Receive Rebate: Rebates (up to $5,000) are issued by cheque or direct deposit.
    Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Moderate Income Rebate (MIR) - 2026 Details

    Efficiency Nova Scotia
    For households that exceed deep-poverty thresholds but are categorized as moderate income, the MIR provides an "adder" to standard provincial rebates.

    Benefits


  • Total Value: Up to $10,000 in rebates for a standard retrofit.

  • Fee Waivers: The $199 Home Energy Assessment fee is waived for qualified participants.

  • Incentive Rates: Higher rebate per ton of heating capacity ($1,000 - $3,000 per 12,000 BTU).


    • 2026 Changes


  • Mandatory Audit: As of January 1, 2026, the Home Energy Assessment (HEA) is the mandatory gateway for this rebate. No standalone heat pump rebates are offered without an audit.
    • Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Heating Assistance Rebate Program (HARP) - Winter 2025/2026

    Government of Nova Scotia
    HARP provides an annual cash rebate to help low-income Nova Scotians with their home heating costs.

    2025-2026 Details


  • Rebate Amount: $400 flat payment.

  • Application Period: October 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026.

  • Payment Method: Cheque or direct deposit (linked to your CRA tax refund account).


    • Eligibility


  • Income: 2024 net income of $30,000 or less (single) or $45,000 or less (household).

  • Fuel Types: Oil, electricity, wood, pellets, natural gas, or propane.
    • Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    HomeWarming: Free Heat Pumps for Low-Income Homeowners

    Efficiency Nova Scotia
    HomeWarming provides no-charge energy assessments and home upgrades for low-income homeowners in Nova Scotia.

    What is Included?


  • Draft Proofing & Insulation: Air sealing and attic/basement insulation.

  • Heat Pumps: Starting in 2023, the program includes the installation of ductless mini-split heat pumps if they will significantly reduce energy costs.

  • Cost: $0. All services, equipment, and materials are free to the eligible homeowner.


    • Eligibility


  • Income: Targets deep poverty (e.g., ~$29,580 for 1 person net income).

  • Property: Must own and live in a single-unit home (detached, semi, townhouse, or mobile on permanent foundation).
    • Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) Program - 2026 Guide

    Efficiency Nova Scotia
    The Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) program is the primary financial instrument for low-to-median income households in Nova Scotia switching from oil heating to cold-climate heat pumps.

    Key Benefits


  • Total Value: Up to $30,000 in combined federal and provincial grants ($15,000 federal + $15,000 provincial).

  • Coverage: Includes the heat pump unit, installation, electrical panel upgrades, and oil tank removal.

  • Direct Pay: Standardized "Direct to Contractor" payment option means homeowners often pay $0 out-of-pocket.


    • 2026 Critical Deadlines


  • Funding Status: Funding is expected to be "fully committed" in early 2026. New applicants after this point will be placed on a standby list.

  • Completion: All pre-approved projects must be completed by December 31, 2026.


    • Eligibility Requirements


    1. Heating Source: Must be oil-heated as of January 2023 (min 500L purchased in last 12 months).
    2. Residence: Owner-occupied primary residence.
    3. Income: After-tax household income must be at or below thresholds (e.g., $120,750 for a family of 4).
    Verify details on official program pages
    Program details

    Need financing?
    Check Municipal Clean Energy Financing (PACE)

    Clean Energy Financing (PACE-style financing) is offered in participating Nova Scotia towns and municipalities and is administered by Clean Foundation. If eligible, you may receive upfront financing and repay your municipality over time (program terms vary by municipality).

    Program availability depends on your municipality
    Repayment is typically structured as a municipal charge (details vary)
    Credit checks and eligibility rules can vary (example: Amherst lists a credit check requirement)
    This is financing, not a rebate
    Check Clean Energy Financing

    Before you buy: Confirm the rebate path first

    Many rebate problems happen because the homeowner installs first and tries to "figure out rebates later".

    • Use official program pages for eligibility and steps
    • Get everything in writing: model numbers, AHRI number, invoice details, and permits
    • If an installer claims they are "with Efficiency NS" or "guarantees rebates", treat that as a red flag

    Typical paperwork you will be asked for

    Exact requirements vary by program, but these items come up repeatedly.

    • Full indoor and outdoor model numbers (exact)
    • AHRI reference number (when applicable)
    • Proof of primary residence and home ownership (some programs)
    • Proof of oil purchases (OHPA: commonly 500 litres in the past 12 months)
    • CRA Notice of Assessment pages needed for income checks (program-specific)
    • Final paid invoice with install address, date, and contractor info
    • Photos where required by the application or attestation

    Permits and electrical work: ask before you sign

    Heat pump installs can trigger electrical work. Clarify who pulls permits and what is included.

    • Ask if an electrical permit is required for your install and who is responsible
    • If a contractor pressures you to skip permits, do not proceed

    Red flags to avoid

    • "Rebate guaranteed" or "we are affiliated with Efficiency NS"
    • Pressure to sign financing immediately
    • Requests for full payment upfront before any paperwork is confirmed
    • No written quote with model numbers and scope
    • Door-to-door pitches offering "free inspections" tied to deposits
    Consumer Safety Alerts
    Scam Alert: Recurring home repair scam warning (unsolicited repair offers)

    Halifax Regional Police warn of recurring home repair scams. Unsolicited offers and 'today-only' pricing are key red flags. Get multiple written quotes, confirm permits and inspections, and never hand over personal or banking details to strangers.

    Report a Scam
    Scam Alert: Misleading home services and equipment offers (below-market pricing, social media ads)

    The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre reports an increase in misleading home services and equipment fraud, often originating from social media ads, telemarketing, or door-to-door sales. Red flags include prices far below market value and pressure to sign immediately. Research the company before sharing contact details or signing anything.

    Report a Scam
    Scam Alert: Fraudsters impersonating the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre

    CAFC warns that fraudsters impersonate CAFC representatives and may request personal or financial information, including credit card details or money transfers. CAFC notes it does not contact individuals to request money. If you receive such contact, do not provide information and report it through official channels.

    Report a Scam
    View Provincial Scam Database

    Rebate-Ready Checklist

    Ensure your installer includes these in the quote so you do not get stuck later.

    • Full indoor and outdoor model numbers
    • AHRI Certified Reference Number (if applicable)
    • Confirmation of cold-climate rating and eligible listing
    • Electrical permit plan (who pulls it, what it covers)
    • Load calculation plan (how the system will be sized for your house)

    Find Rebate-Ready Installers

    Use our directory to compare installers and ask the right questions before you sign.

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