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Calgary CEIP Application Window Opening Soon: What Homeowners Need to Know

A Calgary CEIP picture

 

If you’ve been thinking about solar panels, new windows, or other home efficiency upgrades, this is worth paying attention to.

The City of Calgary’s Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) is opening a new application intake window soon, and spots can go fast.

CEIP is one of the best financing options available in Calgary because it can cover up to 100% of eligible project costs and lets homeowners repay the cost through their property tax bill.

What Is CEIP (Clean Energy Improvement Program)?

CEIP is a financing program that helps Calgary homeowners pay for approved clean energy upgrades without needing to cover the full project cost upfront.

Instead of putting the entire upgrade on a line of credit or credit card, CEIP allows you to finance eligible improvements and repay it through a Clean Energy Improvement Tax added to your property tax bill.

It is designed to make upgrades more realistic for homeowners who want to improve efficiency, reduce energy use, and invest in long-term home improvements.

When Does the CEIP Application Window Open?

According to the City of Calgary, residential CEIP applications open February 17, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.

If you are planning to apply, you want to be ready ahead of time. These intake rounds are limited and often fill quickly.

Official program details and updates are posted on the City’s CEIP page.

Quick CEIP Summary (Calgary Homeowners)

CEIP Feature What It Means
Financing amount Up to 100% of eligible project costs
Interest rate 3.75%
Repayment term Up to 20 years (based on upgrade lifespan)
How you repay Through your property tax bill (Clean Energy Improvement Tax line item)
Early payout Allowed anytime with no extra fees
Does it stay with the home? Yes, it can transfer with the property if you sell (with disclosure)
Incentive Up to 10% incentive available for completed projects (limited supply)

What Upgrades Are Eligible Under CEIP?

CEIP is meant for energy-efficient and renewable energy improvements. The eligible upgrade list can change, so always check the official Calgary CEIP eligibility list before you finalize your plans.

In general, CEIP can include upgrades such as:

  • Solar PV (solar panels and related electrical equipment)
  • Insulation upgrades
  • High-performance windows and doors
  • Heating and ventilation improvements (depending on eligibility)

Some upgrades may require specific documentation or inspections as part of the process.

Is CEIP a Rebate Program?

No. CEIP is financing, not a rebate.

You are borrowing funds to pay for your upgrades, and you repay it over time through your property tax bill. The benefit is that you can often move forward with an upgrade now, without waiting years to save up the full cost.

That said, there may be an incentive available for a limited time that can reduce your total CEIP financing amount after your project is complete.

What Homeowners Should Do Before Applying

If you want to be ready for the application intake window, here are the basics:

  1. Review the CEIP requirements so you know your property qualifies.
  2. Gather your property details so you can complete the application without delays.
  3. Have a plan for your upgrade (solar, windows, insulation, or a combination).
  4. Be ready on application day. These windows can fill fast.

Why CEIP Is a Big Deal for Solar in Calgary

Solar has become one of the most popular CEIP upgrades because it helps homeowners generate their own electricity and reduce long-term dependence on the grid.

For many Calgary homes, the biggest challenge with solar has never been the technology. It’s been the upfront cost.

CEIP helps solve that problem by making the financing simple and tied to the property.

CEIP vs Other Financing Options

Homeowners often compare CEIP to traditional options like bank loans, HELOCs, or credit cards.

CEIP is different because the repayment is tied to the property tax system and can be structured over a longer term depending on the upgrade lifespan.

If you are planning a major home efficiency project, CEIP is one of the cleanest financing tools available in Calgary right now.

Book a Solar Quote Before the CEIP Window Opens

If you’re considering solar panels through CEIP, it’s smart to start planning early.

At Panel Upgrade Experts, we install solar systems across Calgary and help homeowners understand what a solar project could look like on their home.

If you want a solar estimate, we can review your roof layout, electrical setup, and your goals for offsetting electricity usage.

Want to get started? Reach out to Panel Upgrade Experts and request a solar quote today.

You can also learn more about our commercial solar options here:

Commercial Solar in Calgary

 

Calgary CEIP FAQ's

CEIP is a City of Calgary financing program that helps homeowners pay for energy upgrades like solar panels, insulation, windows, and heat pumps. You repay the cost over time through your property tax bill instead of paying the full amount upfront.

CEIP intake windows open at specific times and can fill quickly. It’s best to prepare early by checking eligibility and getting your quote ready before the intake opens.

Most eligible homeowners must:

  • Own a residential property in Calgary

  • Be up to date on property taxes

  • Meet minimum equity requirements

  • Use an approved CEIP contractor

  • Install upgrades from the CEIP eligible list

Yes. Solar panels are one of the most common CEIP upgrades. CEIP can help cover the upfront cost and spread payments over time through your property taxes.

TCEIP is repaid through a charge added to your property tax bill. The repayment term depends on the upgrade type and is often up to 20 years.

In many cases, the remaining CEIP balance can transfer to the next homeowner along with the property. This must be disclosed during the sale.

Often yes. CEIP can sometimes be combined with other programs, depending on current availability and eligibility.

Electrical upgrades may be included if they are required to support an eligible CEIP project, such as a solar installation. Standalone panel upgrades usually do not qualify on their own.

Most applications follow this process:

  • Confirm eligibility

  • Get a quote from an approved contractor

  • Apply during an intake window

  • Complete installation

  • Final approval and repayment setup through property taxes

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