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Energy Efficient Mortgage

Learn about energy-efficient mortgages in Canadian real estate — what they fund, their benefits, and how they support green housing.

Energy Efficient Mortgage

July 29, 2025


What is an Energy-Efficient Mortgage?

An energy-efficient mortgage (EEM) is a mortgage product that provides additional financing or preferred terms to support energy-saving home upgrades or purchases.

Why Energy-Efficient Mortgages Matter in Real Estate

In Canadian real estate, EEMs help buyers reduce long-term utility costs while promoting environmental sustainability.



Key features:
  • Extra funds for upgrades like insulation, windows, HVAC
  • May offer lower interest rates or insurance premium rebates
  • Requires energy audit or certification



Understanding EEMs helps buyers plan renovations and reduce operating costs.

Example of an Energy-Efficient Mortgage in Action

The buyer obtained an energy-efficient mortgage and used the funds to upgrade to high-performance windows and a heat pump system.

Key Takeaways

  • Supports energy-saving home upgrades
  • May lower borrowing costs or premiums
  • Requires verification of improvements
  • Reduces long-term operating costs
  • Aligns with sustainability goals

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Public Realm Improvements

Public realm improvements are enhancements to public spaces such as sidewalks, parks, plazas, and streetscapes, often funded or contributed by. more

Mortgagee in Possession

A mortgagee in possession is a lender who takes control of a property after borrower default, but before foreclosure or power of sale. The lender. more

Lease Surrender Agreement

A lease surrender agreement is a negotiated contract between a landlord and tenant that ends a lease before its scheduled expiration. Terms may. more

Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure refers to natural or engineered systems that manage stormwater, reduce heat, and improve sustainability in developments.. more

Escrow Holdback

An escrow holdback is a portion of funds withheld at closing and held in escrow until specific conditions are met, such as completion of repairs,. more

Underused Housing Tax

The Underused Housing Tax (UHT) is a federal annual 1% tax on the value of vacant or underused residential property owned by non-resident,. more

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