In a move aimed at boosting clean heating solutions, the Province of Ontario and the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) have announced a joint delivery of the OHPA Program (Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program) across the province.
Under this new agreement, the IESO will deliver the OHPA Program through its “Save on Energy” platform, giving homeowners a streamlined, one-stop interface to access funding and resources. Income-qualified homeowners in Ontario will now have access to up to $25,000 in combined federal and provincial funding, plus an upfront $250 bonus, to support the switch from oil heating to high-efficiency electric heat pumps.
The financial backing for the expanded OHPA program in Ontario is significant. The federal government is contributing about $37.5 million, while IESO is providing $21.4 million. An additional $500,000 has been allocated via EnviroCentre to ensure that residents outside the IESO grid—such as those in Cornwall—can also participate.
Ontario is now the eighth jurisdiction in Canada to adopt a co-delivery model for the OHPA program, joining provinces and territories that already offer provincial or territorial cooperation. In areas without provincial co-delivery arrangements, households may still apply to the national OHPA Program to receive up to $10,000 in federal support.
The OHPA Program has been enhanced in recent years to improve affordability and access. From March 2023 onward, eligible households in co-delivery jurisdictions can receive up to $15,000 federal funding, supplemented by provincial contributions and the one-time $250 bonus.
By promoting the adoption of electric heat pumps—often two to three times more efficient than traditional oil heating—the OHPA Program aims to lower energy costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and build cleaner home heating infrastructure across Ontario.
For homeowners interested in applying, applications are now open through IESO’s Save on Energy platform.
If you’d like to participate in the program, Polaron Comfort will not only handle the installation—we’ll also help you with any necessary applications. Sign up now to check your eligibility.