November 13, 2025
Prabh Sandhu
As winter approaches and concerns about rising heating costs grow, the City of Calgary is encouraging income-qualified residents to apply for its free Home Upgrades Program, which offers energy-saving improvements designed to reduce utility bills and increase home comfort.
Brittany Tran, a corporate environmental specialist with the city, says participants can expect significant savings on their gas and electricity use.
“By participating in the Home Upgrades Program, you can improve the energy efficiency of your home and reduce your gas and electricity use by 20 percent or even more,” Tran said in an interview with RED FM. “Insulation and air sealing keep the warm air in and the cold air out, so your furnace isn’t running as often.”
The program provides a range of free upgrades, including improved insulation, air sealing, high-efficiency furnaces, windows, doors, and hot-water heaters. New this year, air conditioners may also be installed to help cool homes during summer months.
Water-saving measures are part of the package as well. High-efficiency toilets and faucet aerators are available to help reduce water use, while smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed to enhance safety.
To determine which upgrades are most suitable, each home is assessed before work begins. “These upgrades are all completely free,” Tran said. “We want to make homes more comfortable, safer, and more affordable to operate.”
Eligibility is based on household income and size. A four-person household, for example, must have a pre-tax annual income below roughly $98,000. Renters are also eligible, though landlords must approve installation of the upgrades.
Residents can check eligibility and apply online at HomeUpgradesProgram.ca/Calgary, or email hello@homeupgradesprogram.ca for assistance.
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