Welcome to FirstOntario’s Climate Centre
We’re committed to reducing our environmental impact and helping our members do the same — together, for a better future.
A shared responsibility: Responding to climate change
Climate change is one of the most significant challenges of our time. Since the 2015 Paris Agreement, countries, businesses, and individuals have been working together to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Success requires a collective effort. Governments, companies, and communities all have a role to play, and FirstOntario is proud to be part of this global movement.
How we can make a difference together
A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions created by the daily choices we make — from how you heat your home to how you bank. Every small decision can add up to meaningful change. Simple changes can contribute directly to a healthier planet.
Let’s explore how your financial choices can help you achieve your goals while supporting a cleaner, more sustainable future. Select each tab below to learn more.
Simple choices, meaningful change
- Pay bills online to reduce paperwork
- Switch to eStatements to save paper and ink
- Deposit cheques digitally and skip the branch
- Keep FirstOntario close with our mobile app
Put your money where your values are
Your investments can help support a more sustainable world. Through our partnership with Aviso Wealth, FirstOntario offers responsible investment options that consider environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. These investments back companies working toward a low-carbon future.
Discover how NEI Investments incorporates climate leadership into its portfolio strategies.
Lower bills, lower impact
From small fixes to major upgrades, improving your home’s energy efficiency can reduce emissions and save you money. Whether you’re a new homeowner, renter, or seasoned renovator, every change counts.
Switch to LED lighting
Save energy one bulb at a time.
LED bulbs use up to 90% less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs – a simple swap that adds up to big savings.
Seal the gaps
Keep the heat in and the cold out.
Sealing cracks around windows, doors, and foundations can lower heating and cooling bills and improve comfort year-round.
Upgrade your insulation
Stay cozy and save.
Adding insulation to attics, walls, or basements can dramatically cut energy use, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Invest in smart thermostats
Smarter control, smarter savings.
Smart thermostats automatically adapt to your lifestyle, optimizing heating and cooling. Many utility companies offer rebates for installation.
Choose energy-efficient appliances
Make every watt count.
Look for ENERGY STAR® certified appliances when upgrading. They use less energy and water without compromising performance.
Plant a shade tree
Nature’s own air conditioner.
Strategically planted trees can lower surrounding air temperatures and reduce cooling costs by up to 25%.
Use natural light and ventilation
Brighten your home and cut energy use.
Maximize daylight and use windows for natural cooling when the weather allows. Small changes can reduce electricity use and lower your energy bills.
Explore renewable energy options
Power your home with cleaner energy.
Consider installing solar panels or enrolling in a renewable energy program through your utility provider.
Explore available grants and incentives
Stretch your budget further.
When you invest in your home's energy efficiency, several programs can help reduce your costs.
Available home energy grants and incentives
- CMHC Eco Plus – Partial mortgage insurance refund for energy-efficient homes.
- Sagen Energy Efficient Housing Program – 25% partial premium refund for qualified homes.
- Canada Guaranty Energy-Efficient Advantage – Reduces mortgage insurance costs.
- Canada Greener Homes Loan – Interest-free loans up to $40,000 for energy-efficient home upgrades.
- Home Renovation Savings Program (Ontario) – Rebates for insulation, heat pumps, smart thermostats, and more.
- Home Efficiency Rebate Plus (Ontario) – Up to $10,000 in rebates for eligible retrofits.
- Federal and Provincial Incentives Directory – A complete list of financial incentives across Canada. Learn more
Are you a homeowner?
With our MeritLine home equity line of credit, use your home equity as security to lock in our lowest rate.
Learn more