CleanBC Free Heat Pump 2026: Who Qualifies
Short answer: If your household income is under the CleanBC limits (for a family of four, up to $94,900 for Level 1), CleanBC pays 100% of eligible heat pump costs up to $13,000 when you switch from gas, oil or propane. If your system costs less than the cap, it can be free. ECAP, run by BC Hydro and FortisBC, can also install upgrades for free.
The official 2026 income limits
Add up the pre-tax income of every adult in the home (not dependants). These are the limits for invoices from July 6, 2026:
| People in home | Level 1 up to | Level 2 up to | Level 3 up to |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $51,100 | $63,900 | $102,100 |
| 2 | $63,600 | $79,500 | $127,200 |
| 3 | $78,200 | $97,700 | $156,300 |
| 4 | $94,900 | $118,600 | $189,800 |
| 5 | $107,600 | $134,500 | $215,200 |
| 6 | $121,400 | $151,700 | $242,700 |
| 7+ | $135,100 | $168,900 | $270,200 |
How much CleanBC pays
| Heat pump type (switching from gas, oil or propane) | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central ducted, or multi-split with 3+ heads | $13,000 | $7,000 | $3,500 |
| 2-head multi-split, or two single-head mini-splits | $11,000 | $5,500 | $1,000 |
| Single-head mini-split | $5,500 | $4,500 | $1,000 |
| Switching from electric heat (any type) | $5,000 | Not eligible | Not eligible |
Northern top-up: +$3,000 (or +$1,500 for one head) at Levels 1 and 2, for BC Hydro homes at or north of 100 Mile House.
Is it really free?
It can be. CleanBC pays 100% of eligible costs up to the maximum. A Level 1 home switching from gas to a heat pump that costs less than $13,000 would pay nothing for the heat pump. If it costs more, you pay the difference. Level 2 and 3 homes get less, so for them it's a big discount, not free.
ECAP: free upgrades, no application math
The Energy Conservation Assistance Program gives income-qualified households a free home energy evaluation. If you qualify, the evaluator arranges free upgrades. Some homes get a heat pump or insulation; others get smaller items. You don't pick the upgrades.
Just above the limit?
- If you heat with electric baseboards or an electric furnace, BC Hydro pays up to $4,000 at any income (FortisBC also pays up to $4,000 in its electric areas).
- FortisBC electric customers who are income-qualified can get up to $12,000.
- The federal Greener Homes Grant is closed.
What to do next
- Check your level in the table above.
- Gather a CRA Notice of Assessment for each adult.
- Pre-register with the CleanBC Energy Savings Program, or apply to ECAP through your utility, before any work starts.
- Use a registered contractor; self-installs don't qualify.
Questions people ask
What is the income limit for a free heat pump in BC?
For Level 1 (the highest rebates): $51,100 for one person, $63,600 for two, $78,200 for three, $94,900 for four, up to $135,100 for seven or more.
How much does CleanBC pay for an income-qualified heat pump?
From July 6, 2026: up to $13,000 (Level 1), $7,000 (Level 2) or $3,500 (Level 3) for a central or 3+ head system replacing gas, oil or propane. From electric heat, $5,000 at Level 1 only.
Can renters apply?
The program rules include a path for tenants with the owner's consent, but the owner is involved. Check the program rules before you start.
See your city's rebates
Compare top-rated local installers, ranked by Google reviews. Free for homeowners, and we'll tell you honestly if the math doesn't work for your home.
See your city's rebates →Sources, checked September 26, 2026: CleanBC Energy Savings Program rules (July 6, 2026) · ECAP: free home energy evaluation and upgrades · BC Hydro programs based on income · FortisBC income-qualified heat pump rebate.