Nearly 8,000 applications that were turned down for a home heating rebate last winter would have qualified under previous criteria, according to a recent analysis by CBC News. Advocates suggest this highlights the struggle of Nova Scotians with high living costs and the government’s inadequate response. The province defended its actions, stating it assisted the most vulnerable residents.
Data on the Heating Assistance Rebate Program (HARP) revealed that 7,988 applications for the 2025-26 season were rejected due to income reasons, despite meeting requirements in the past. Last year, the province reduced income thresholds for HARP by 40 to 45 percent and decreased the rebate value by over 30 percent.
By the end of winter, around 54,000 households received the $400 rebate, leaving $11 million unspent from the budget. Energy affordability advocate Juli Bishwokarma expressed disappointment that many low-income households were denied the rebate while funds remained unused. Bishwokarma noted that the income cap for HARP fails to address the extent of energy poverty.
Miriam Williams from tenant advocacy group ACORN emphasized the insufficiency of government aid for those in energy poverty. She highlighted the significant impact the rebate could have on struggling households during the winter.
The number of households affected by eligibility changes may be higher than reported, as the data provided to CBC News only accounted for 65,500 applications out of the 72,500 submitted. HARP is managed by the Department of Service Nova Scotia, which did not offer an interview for further comments. The program’s eligibility criteria and rebate value are typically announced just before applications open on October 1 each year.
Overall, advocates and residents believe that while government initiatives to enhance affordability are appreciated, more support is needed to address the challenges faced by low-income households, especially in dealing with energy costs.
The budget for HARP last year was approximately $33 million, with the same amount allocated for the upcoming winter season. Applications for the program are expected to open soon, with details on eligibility and rebates to be disclosed in advance.