Thousands of New Brunswick households are eligible to get a free heat pump and insulation upgrades.

It is part of a new energy efficiency program launched by the province and NB Power earlier this week.

Homeowners who use electric baseboard heating and have a combined income of under $70,000 are eligible. Those in that income bracket with another heating source can get free insulation upgrades.

A financing program will be added next year for homeowners who do not qualify but wish to make energy efficiency upgrades.

Renters can apply to receive free energy efficiency kits containing LED bulbs, shower heads and power bars, which will help them reduce their energy use.

“The current global economic crisis and rising costs put a lot of pressure on keeping rates affordable, and we are glad to help make initiatives like this available to New Brunswickers,” said Lori Clark, acting president and CEO of NB Power.

“We expect this program will be in high demand and are committed to doing what we need to so we can manage demand as quickly as possible.”

The provincial government says it will invest $30 million in the multi-year Enhanced Energy Savings Program.

“We know these are challenging times for New Brunswickers who are struggling to make ends meet due to rising costs,” Energy Development Minister Mike Holland said in a news release.

“When combined with other efficiency programs for varying income levels, and the newly announced federal program to help with home heating oil, we will be giving all New Brunswickers an opportunity to better manage their energy costs.”

Earlier this month, Ottawa announced it will spend up to $250 million over four years to make home heating more affordable for Canadians. The funding is designed to help those who use home heating oil move to other heating sources, like electric heat pumps.

Nearly half of the money, about $120 million, will go to Atlantic Canada, where an estimated 30 per cent of homes currently use oil. It is believed the money could help between 10,000 and 25,000 lower-income households across the country.

You can find more details about the Enhanced Energy Savings Program by clicking here or calling NB Power at 1-800-663-6272.