Brock supports Durham Greener Homes Program with financial contribution

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

BROCK: At their meeting, on Monday, June 9th, Township Councillors received an in-depth update on the Durham Greener Homes Program and agreed to contribute $7,500 from its Green Initiative Funding Budget, to support local incentives for Brock residents.

The presentation was delivered by Shannon Logan, Policy Advisor – Sustainability with the Region of Durham. Ms. Logan detailed recent performance and proposed enhancements to the regional program which aims to help homeowners reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower utility costs, and prepare for extreme weather events.

“We’re seeing strong results across the Region,” said Ms. Logan. “Our energy coaching service has received nearly 1,400 calls and is driving 40 percent greater emissions reductions than the average retrofit. Residents are giving it an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.”

Council heard about several upcoming program enhancements, including “Weather-Ready” renovations, designed to increase climate resilience through practical, expert-guided home improvements. Measures include: installing rain barrels, permeable pavement, flood alarms, and certified sustainable landscaping, all supported by new rebate and financing options.

Ms. Logan emphasized these changes are more than cosmetic: “With climate change, we’re seeing more intense storms, [and] flooding, and heat events. The Weather-Ready Program is about helping people reduce their risks, while also creating green jobs and supporting the local economy.”

The Region also plans to launch a new low- or zero-interest municipal loan program, in the Autumn of 2025, enabling homeowners to finance retrofits with repayment tied to their property taxes. Loans will cover up to 10% of a home's value or $125,000, with 20-year amortization and upfront disbursements, to help manage project cashflow.

“This kind of program gives residents the tools and support they need to take real action,” said Regional Councillor Mike Jubb. “It’s about making our homes more efficient, more resilient, and ultimately safer. I’m proud Brock is putting funding behind this.”

The Township’s $7,500 contribution will be used to offer localized incentives for Brock residents, ensuring the program is accessible and effective in the northern parts of Durham Region.

The enhanced Durham Greener Homes Program is expected to fully launch in 2026, pending the Region's application for federal funding, through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fund.