An investigation by the Toronto Star has revealed serious problems with the federal ecoENERGY Retrofit program. The newspaper had four auditors do an energy audit on the same home. They came up with four different energy efficiency ratings, ranging from 37 to 46 on a scale of 100. The auditors called for renovations ranging from $3,000 to $25,000. And while they all recommended replacing the elderly furnace, one stated the basement was un-insulated when in fact it was. The rules for auditors have been relaxed under the latest energy efficiency rebate program. Among other things, HVAC contractors can apply to become energy advisors, something not allowed under the previous EnerGuide for Houses program because of the potential conflict of interest.
