Definition
The green mortgage (eco-mortgage) is a financial product that rewards borrowers who purchase or renovate high energy performance properties.
**Offers in Canada**: - **CMHC Eco** : 25% rebate on CMHC insurance premium for ENERGY STAR, R-2000 or LEED certified homes — among the most significant available benefits - **Desjardins Eco-mortgage**: preferential rate for certified properties or those that have undergone eligible energy-efficient renovations - **CIBC Green Advantage**: rate reduction for high EnerGuide ratings - **BMO energy-efficient renovation loan**: dedicated financing for insulation, windows, heat pumps
**Recognized certifications**: - R-2000 (NRCan): new construction, advanced energy standard - ENERGY STAR (new home): 20%+ more efficient than standard building code - LEED (various categories): international tiered certification (Certified, Silver, Gold, Platinum) - Net zero (CHBA): home producing as much energy as it consumes
**Typical eligible renovations**: - Additional insulation (walls, roof, foundations) - Triple-glazed windows and doors - Heat pumps, air-source heat pumps - Solar panels with storage batteries - Heat recovery ventilators (HRV)
**Federal renovation programs**: The federal government offers direct grants (up to $5,000) via Rénoclimat (QC) and interest-free loans (up to $40,000) via the Canada Greener Homes Loan program.