A Homeowner’s Guide to Window Replacement Rebates and Incentives in GTA

With utility rates in Ontario continuing to climb in 2026, homeowners across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are feeling the pinch of "energy leakage." Drafty windows are more than just a nuisance; they are a direct drain on your bank account, often accounting for up to 25% of a home's total heat loss. By partnering with the best windows contractor Toronto has to offer, you can navigate these complex government incentives and turn a massive renovation into a manageable, subsidized investment.

In 2026, the rebate landscape has shifted toward long-term sustainability. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the stackable grants, low-interest loans, and specialized programs available to help you upgrade your home's performance while keeping your budget intact.

1. The Home Renovation Savings Program (HRSP)

The Home Renovation Savings Program remains the cornerstone of Ontario energy incentives in 2026. This program, a joint effort between Enbridge Gas and Save on Energy, has been extended to help meet Ontario’s 2030 emissions targets. It offers a simplified, "per-unit" rebate structure that makes financial planning straightforward for GTA homeowners.

2. Toronto’s Home Energy Loan Program (HELP)

For those living within the City of Toronto, the Home Energy Loan Program (HELP) is the ultimate tool for 2026. While traditional rebates give you cash back months after the work is done, HELP provides the capital upfront.

The 2026 City Budget has expanded this program to include deeper subsidies for "Deep Retrofits"—projects that combine window replacements with heat pump installations.

• High Loan Limits: Borrow up to $125,000 or 10% of your property's current value.
• Low-Fixed Rates: Current 2026 rates range from 3.23% for 5-year terms to 4.73% for 20-year terms.
• No Personal Debt: The loan is attached to your property tax bill, not your personal credit score.
• Transferability: If you sell your home, the loan balance can transfer to the new owner, who continues to benefit from the lower energy bills.

3. Support for Low-to-Moderate Income Households

In 2026, the provincial government has doubled down on the Energy Affordability Program (EAP) to ensure energy efficiency isn't just for luxury builds.

Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program (CGHAP)

This federal-provincial partnership is designed for households that find the upfront cost of energy audits prohibitive. For qualified residents, the program covers 100% of the cost for specific retrofits, including high-efficiency window weatherization and, in some cases, full replacements for older, single-pane units.

Income Thresholds for 2026

To qualify for the "Comprehensive Support" stream in the GTA, your household income must typically fall below $96,439 for a family of four. This level of support often includes free professional draft-proofing and attic insulation, which significantly increases the performance of your new windows.

4. Technical Standards: The 2026 Energy Star Criteria

You cannot simply purchase any window and expect a rebate cheque. To qualify for the $100-per-window incentive, your products must meet the ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient 2026 standards.

In 2026, most qualifying windows are triple-pane units. These units offer up to 50% better insulation and superior noise reduction—a vital benefit for homes near the busy Gardiner Expressway or downtown core.

• U-Factor: Must be ≤ 1.22 W/m²·K (lower is better for heat retention).
• Energy Rating (ER): Should typically be ≥ 34 to handle Ontario's extreme temperature swings.

5. Your 5-Step Roadmap to Success

To ensure you don't disqualify yourself from thousands in savings, follow this exact sequence used by the best windows contractor Toronto homeowners rely on:

1. Consult a Pro: Speak with a certified installer to identify windows that meet 2026 Energy Star standards.
2. The Pre-Audit: You must have a Registered Energy Advisor visit your home before any old windows are removed.
3. Professional Installation: Complete the work using certified installers to maintain your product warranty and rebate eligibility.
4. The Post-Audit: Your advisor returns to verify the installation and the improved airtightness of your home.
5. Receive Your Funds: Rebate cheques are typically processed and mailed within 10–14 weeks of the final audit.