The Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP) is a new financing mechanism designed for Albertan homeowners who want to fund up to 100% of their energy efficiency upgrades, including solar panel installations. It offers flexible, competitive financing options and makes repayment simple through your regular property tax bill.
Why Go for It?
There are several advantages to installing solar systems on your home’s roof, including:
- A reliable, renewable energy source
- Lower monthly utility bills
- Enhanced property value
The CEIP program makes these benefits more accessible for both residential and commercial property owners. It provides a convenient financing structure that lets you enjoy the advantages of solar energy right away with minimal personal liability.
Linked to the Property — Not You
Unlike traditional loans, CEIP financing is attached to the property itself rather than the individual homeowner. If the home is sold, the repayment transfers to the new owner via the property tax bill, along with all the benefits of an existing solar system. In some cases, repayment of the remaining balance may be required at the time of sale, depending on the buyer’s conditions.
Flexible and Accessible
Municipalities participating in CEIP can offer low-interest financing with extended repayment terms of up to twenty years, depending on the project type and local bylaws. Homeowners also have the option to pay off the balance early at any time.
Is the CEIP Program Available in Calgary?
According to the official CEIP website, the City of Calgary planned to open applications to residents in fall 2022. Alberta’s first municipality joined the program in late 2021, with others like Devon, Leduc, Rocky Mountain House, and Edmonton following shortly after. Calgary had already passed the required bylaw, preparing to launch its own Clean Energy Improvement Program for residential property owners.
How Does the Program Work?
The Clean Energy Improvement Program provides financing for renewable energy and efficiency projects that’s repaid directly through property taxes. Because the financing is tied to the property, new owners inherit both the repayment and the ongoing benefits of solar energy.
- Access to competitive interest rates
- Long repayment terms (up to 20 years for some upgrades)
- Ability to pay off the balance at any time
Residential property owners can select from multiple upgrade options, with solar panel installation being one of the most impactful and cost-saving choices.
Requirements for Solar PV Financing
To qualify for CEIP financing, solar PV installations must meet specific requirements:
- Systems must be grid-connected and comply with Alberta’s Micro-generation Regulation.
- All solar components must be CSA-certified and UL-recognized.
- All equipment must be brand-new and unused.
- Projects over 150 kW require operational procedures upon installation.
- Modules must include a 25-year performance warranty and a 10-year manufacturing warranty.
- Inverters or microinverters must carry at least a 10-year warranty.
- Qualified contractors must provide a minimum 1-year warranty covering materials and labor.
Applicants should also review all required documentation and terms listed on the official CEIP website. Additional details for Calgary’s specific rollout were expected to follow its official launch.
One More Perk
Calgarians participating in CEIP could also apply for the Canada Greener Homes Grant, which helps cover the cost of NRCan Energy Audits and provides up to $5,000 for eligible energy-efficiency upgrades. For smaller projects, this could offset most or even all upfront costs.
