Quick quiz: how windows and doors work
Ten questions on the technology. Tap an answer to see why.
Short answer: FortisBC pays $100 per window or door, up to $2,000. The new unit must have a U-factor of 1.22 or lower (metric), be certified, and be installed by a licensed contractor. Apply within six months of your invoice.
Penticton is in the South Okanagan, with hot summers and fairly mild winters for the Interior. Penticton runs its own electric utility. Penticton electric customers use FortisBC's rebate programs, not BC Hydro's.
The window and door rebate rules
- Amount: $100 for each window or door, up to $2,000 per home.
- Efficiency: U-factor of 1.22 W/m²·K or less. Your quote should list it.
- Certified by CSA, Intertek, Labtest, QAI or NFRC.
- Replacing existing windows or doors between heated and unheated space. Skylights don't count.
- Installed by a licensed contractor. Self-installs don't qualify.
- Apply within six months of the invoice.
Bonuses for doing more than one upgrade
FortisBC adds a $300 bonus when you do windows (worth at least $250 in rebates) plus another eligible upgrade, or a bonus of $750 to $2,000 based on how much your EnerGuide rating improves.
Is replacing windows worth it?
Honestly, windows are one of the most expensive upgrades for the energy they save. If your windows are in decent shape, insulation and air sealing usually save more per dollar. Replace windows when they're failing, fogged or drafty, and use the rebate to take the edge off.
The income-qualified CleanBC Energy Savings Program (July 2026 rules) does not include windows. ECAP may cover some draftproofing for income-qualified homes.
What's different in Penticton
- City of Penticton Home Energy Loan Program (HELP): up to $10,000 over 10 years, repaid on your city electric bill at prime plus 0.5%. It covers upgrades that match FortisBC's rebates (heat pumps, insulation, windows and doors, air sealing). The city says the program is being redesigned, so confirm the terms first.
- Penticton electric customers qualify for FortisBC's electric rebates, including the heat pump rebate.
What to do next
- Check which utility heats your home.
- Get quotes that list the U-factor and certification of each unit.
- Ask about insulation at the same time to earn the bonus.
- Keep your invoice and photos of the labels, and apply within six months.
Questions people ask
How much is the BC window rebate?
$100 per window or door, up to $2,000, from BC Hydro or FortisBC. The City of Vancouver is excluded.
Do ENERGY STAR windows automatically qualify?
Not automatically. The rule is a U-factor of 1.22 W/m²·K or less and certification by a listed body. Check the number on the label or quote.
Who gives heat pump rebates in Penticton?
FortisBC. Penticton's city electric utility customers are eligible for FortisBC's heat pump rebate (up to $4,000, or up to $12,000 if income-qualified), not BC Hydro's.
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Compare top-rated Penticton installers →Sources, checked September 26, 2026: FortisBC window and door rebates · FortisBC home renovation bonus rebates.
