Changes to the LogisVert Program for Heat Pumps in Quebec

The Québec heat pump market is entering a significant transition. The LogisVert Efficient Homes Program, which provides provincial rebates for residential efficiency upgrades, will change its eligibility criteria on November 26, 2025. These updates remove older qualification paths, increase performance requirements, and redefine which heat pumps can receive financial assistance.

For homeowners, these changes influence rebate amounts, equipment options, and long-term operating costs.

For installers, the updates affect inventory planning, quoting accuracy, and competitive positioning.

The 2025 update directs the entire market toward high-efficiency and cold-climate systems that can deliver reliable heat during Québec winters. Anyone considering a heat pump installation must understand these new rules before selecting a system.

LogisVert 2025 Eligibility Update (Nov 26)

Beginning November 26, 2025, the LogisVert Efficient Homes Program will only approve heat pumps that meet the current ENERGY STAR certification criteria. Any model that does not hold an official ENERGY STAR or ENERGY STAR Cold Climate designation will be removed from the eligible list.

This is the most substantial update to the program since its launch. Previously, some manufacturers relied on NEEP performance data to qualify units that did not have full ENERGY STAR certification. That pathway is now closed. The new rules simplify the approval process and push all participants toward verified high-performance equipment.

For anyone planning an installation near the end of 2025, the cutoff date is critical. After November 26, only ENERGY STAR certified systems will qualify for any level of financial assistance. Product lists, estimates, and installation schedules must be reviewed and adjusted to match the new requirements.

ENERGY STAR® Requirement (NEEP Removed)

Under the updated LogisVert rules, ENERGY STAR certification becomes the only accepted method for determining heat pump eligibility. NEEP performance data, which previously allowed certain models to qualify without formal ENERGY STAR certification, will no longer be recognized. Although historical performance information remains available at NEEP’s ASHP database, it has no influence on rebate approval after November 26, 2025.

ENERGY STAR certification provides a single, standardized evaluation system used across Canada and the United States. This ensures that every approved heat pump meets consistent and verifiable efficiency and performance thresholds. Eliminating NEEP simplifies the approval process and removes ambiguity between manufacturers.

This change will reduce the number of qualifying models. Any unit that relied solely on NEEP listings and lacks full ENERGY STAR certification will become ineligible. Installers must update their product selections, and homeowners must verify certification before committing to any installation.

This shift increases the importance of selecting certified equipment and reinforces the market’s transition toward higher performance standards.

What Is ENERGY STAR®?

ENERGY STAR is a government-backed certification program that verifies energy efficiency and performance across a wide range of products, including heat pumps. For a heat pump to earn the ENERGY STAR label, it must meet strict criteria for efficiency, reliability, and standardized test performance under recognized laboratory conditions.

Key characteristics of an ENERGY STAR certified heat pump include:

·       Verified efficiency ratings based on standardized testing

·       Reliable performance at typical Canadian winter temperatures

·       Compliance with federal and provincial energy regulations

·       Independent certification rather than manufacturer self-reporting

ENERGY STAR certification serves as a trusted benchmark for consumers who want measurable performance rather than marketing claims. In the context of the LogisVert Program, it provides a clear and consistent standard that determines which systems qualify for rebates. This ensures homeowners invest in equipment that delivers documented efficiency and predictable long-term operating costs.

What Is a Cold Climate Heat Pump?

A cold climate heat pump is a high-performance air source system designed to deliver reliable heat during Canadian winters. Standard heat pumps lose capacity and efficiency when temperatures drop below freezing. Cold climate heat pumps are built and tested to maintain strong output in low ambient temperatures without heavy dependence on backup electric heat or fuel systems.

To qualify for the ENERGY STAR Cold Climate designation in Canada, a heat pump must pass strict third-party verified testing at low temperatures. This certification confirms that the system will provide real heat during typical Québec winter conditions.

Cold climate heat pumps must meet the following performance requirements:

1. Verified heating performance at minus fifteen degrees Celsius

The system must be tested under recognized laboratory procedures to ensure it can operate efficiently during severe cold.

Two performance thresholds are mandatory:

·       Minimum COP of 1.75 at minus fifteen degrees Celsius

The COP represents efficiency. A COP of 1.75 means the unit produces one point seven five units of heat for every unit of electricity used at very cold temperatures.

·       At least seventy percent of its heating capacity at minus fifteen degrees Celsius compared to plus eight degrees Celsius

This confirms that the unit retains most of its heating output as temperatures fall. Poorly designed heat pumps lose a large percentage of capacity in freezing weather. Cold climate units must maintain capacity to be certified.

2. Minimum seasonal efficiency ratings under Canadian test procedures

ENERGY STAR Cold Climate certification requires the following minimum performance values:

·       Non-ducted split systems: 8.5 HSPF2 and 15.2 SEER2

·       Ducted split systems: 8.1 HSPF2 and 15.2 SEER2

·       Single package units: 8.1 HSPF2 and 15.2 SEER2

These ratings confirm that the system maintains strong heating and cooling efficiency over a full season.

3. Verified capacity and control behaviour under Appendix M1 testing

The performance measured at minus fifteen degrees Celsius must be achieved through the unit’s native controls, exactly as it would operate in a customer’s home. This prevents manufacturers from optimizing lab tests in ways that do not align with real-world operation.

4. Reduced reliance on backup heat

A cold climate heat pump must deliver enough heating output in freezing temperatures to reduce or eliminate the need for backup electric resistance heating. This requirement ensures the homeowner benefits from real energy savings instead of switching to inefficient secondary heat.

5. High efficiency in both heating and cooling modes

The system must demonstrate strong performance throughout the entire year, not only during heating. This ensures lower operating costs in both summer and winter.

Cold climate heat pumps are available in multiple system types:

·       Split systems with separate indoor and outdoor units

·       Single package units with all components in one cabinet

·       Ducted or non-ducted configurations depending on home design

All system types must be tested as complete matched systems to qualify for certification.

Cold climate heat pumps provide reliable heating, stable efficiency in sub-zero temperatures, and higher eligibility for provincial rebates. For Québec homeowners, they represent the most efficient and winter-ready heat pump technology available.

Important Note for Québec Homeowners

Most heat pumps sold in Québec, especially in the Montréal region, do not carry the ENERGY STAR Cold Climate designation. This includes many units from brands such as Gree, Fujitsu, Goodman, and other mainstream manufacturers. The reason is not a lack of cold climate models. These companies do produce certified systems.

The real issue is that many contractors consistently sell lower end models to increase profit margins. These lower tier units are cheaper for the contractor to purchase, easier to upsell to homeowners, and often installed without disclosing that the model is not certified for cold climate performance. As a result, customers receive equipment that loses heating capacity in sub-zero temperatures and does not qualify for enhanced rebates.

Understanding the certification standards protects homeowners from being sold outdated or underperforming systems.

Is Cold Climate Heat Pump a Hype?

Cold climate heat pumps are not a trend. They exist because standard heat pumps lose a significant percentage of their heating output once temperatures drop below 0 °C. A cold climate heat pump is engineered to maintain high capacity and efficiency at low outdoor temperatures. It is certified only after passing third-party tests that verify real heating performance at minus 15 °C.

Standard heat pumps commonly lose 40 to 70 percent of their capacity at sub-zero temperatures and depend heavily on electric resistance heat. This behaviour leads to higher operating costs and inconsistent comfort. A cold climate heat pump avoids this issue by retaining most of its heating capacity in freezing conditions and maintaining a stable Coefficient of Performance.

Cold climate heat pumps deliver measurable efficiency benefits. When a system continues heating at low temperatures without relying on electric backup elements, the homeowner avoids the large energy spikes associated with resistance heating. This can significantly reduce winter energy costs.

Additional Information

True high-performance cold climate systems, such as most models offered by Novair Heat Pumps, maintain 100 percent of their rated heating capacity down to minus 15 °C. This means the unit provides its full heating output without derating. Because of this capability, the heat pump can operate as the primary heating source for the entire winter.

This level of performance allows homeowners to save up to 60 percent compared to traditional electric baseboard heating systems.

In addition:

·       Novair wall mounted systems operate reliably down to minus 35 °C.

·       Novair centrally ducted systems operate down to minus 30 °C.

These temperature thresholds mean the system continues producing heat even during extreme Québec cold events. The unit does not shut down, and backup heat is rarely required.

Cold climate heat pumps are not hype. The technology is supported by verified laboratory data, strict certification standards, and documented low-temperature performance.

New Rebate Structure

The updated LogisVert Program introduces a performance-based rebate system that rewards higher efficiency and stronger low-temperature heating capacity. Beginning on November 26, 2025, all rebate amounts are calculated strictly from the system’s certified heating output at minus 8 °C.

The new rebate structure is as follows:

1. ENERGY STAR Certified Heat PumpsRebate amount: 50 dollars per 1,000 BTU per hour at minus 8 °C

This applies to standard ENERGY STAR models that meet baseline efficiency requirements but are not certified as cold climate units.

2. ENERGY STAR Cold Climate Certified Heat Pumps

Rebate amount: 120 dollars per 1,000 BTU per hour at minus 8 °C

Cold climate systems receive more than double the financial assistance because they maintain significantly higher heating capacity during freezing weather.

These units provide greater energy savings and more stable performance in Québec winter conditions.

This structure directly ties the rebate value to real heating performance at minus 8 °C rather than theoretical or mild-weather data. Systems that maintain higher output at low temperatures qualify for higher incentives. This approach encourages homeowners to select equipment that can operate efficiently during the coldest months of the year.

For homeowners comparing quotes, the difference is substantial.

A system with a certified output of 20,000 BTU per hour at minus 8 °C receives:

·       1,000 dollars if it is ENERGY STAR certified

·       2,400 dollars if it is ENERGY STAR Cold Climate certified

Homeowners who upgrade to cold climate models gain stronger comfort, lower operating costs, and higher rebate value.

Installations Before Nov 26 (Transitional Rule)

Heat pumps installed before November 26, 2025 will be evaluated under the current LogisVert rules. This transitional window allows homeowners to proceed with systems that qualify today, including units listed under the NEEP database. Once the installation is completed and documented before the cutoff date, the system remains eligible for the rebate program under the old criteria.

After November 26, 2025, this flexibility disappears. Only heat pumps with official ENERGY STAR or ENERGY STAR Cold Climate certification will qualify for financial assistance. Systems that would have qualified under NEEP performance data will no longer be accepted.

The transitional rule is important for two reasons:

1. Homeowners with existing quotes for non certified systems must act quickly

If a homeowner plans to install a heat pump that is not ENERGY STAR certified, the installation must be completed before November 26 to remain eligible for rebates.

2. Contractors must verify equipment eligibility immediately

Any project scheduled close to the cutoff date must be reviewed. Equipment availability, installation dates, and documentation need to be aligned to avoid missing the deadline.

If installation occurs after the cutoff, even by a single day, the system will be judged under the new rules and may receive zero financial assistance.

Impact on Homeowners

The 2025 LogisVert update significantly affects how Québec homeowners should evaluate and select heat pump systems. The shift to ENERGY STAR certification as the only eligibility standard means that rebate qualification, heating performance, and long-term operating costs will vary widely based on the model chosen.

Key impacts include:

1. Fewer qualifying models

Many common units sold in the Québec market do not have ENERGY STAR Cold Climate certification. Homeowners must verify system eligibility before signing a contract or placing a deposit.

2. Higher value for cold climate systems

Because cold climate units maintain a higher percentage of their heating output at low temperatures, they qualify for larger rebates. This improves the total return on investment and reduces long-term energy costs.

3. Greater importance of certified performance data

Homeowners must rely on official laboratory-certified performance values, such as BTU output at minus 8 °C and COP at minus 15 °C. Marketing claims are irrelevant. Only certified numbers determine the rebate.

4. Reduced risk of poor winter performance

Selecting a certified cold climate model ensures the system will deliver consistent heating in freezing temperatures instead of switching frequently to resistance heat. This lowers winter electricity costs.

5. Increased need for contractor transparency

Homeowners should request AHRI certificates and ENERGY STAR documentation before installation. This confirms that the equipment is legitimate, matched properly, and officially recognized.

6. More predictable long-term heating costs

Cold climate systems maintain stable efficiency in sub-zero conditions, which helps reduce winter energy bills by up to 60 percent compared to electric baseboard systems.

Overall, the new rules give homeowners a strong incentive to choose high-efficiency, cold climate heat pumps rather than lower tier models that struggle during Québec winters.

Impact on Installers / Dealers

The 2025 LogisVert update forces major operational adjustments for HVAC installers and dealers across Québec. The shift to ENERGY STAR and ENERGY STAR Cold Climate certification removes many commonly sold units from eligibility and requires contractors to change how they recommend, price, and schedule installations.

Key impacts include:

1. Immediate inventory adjustments

Installers who stock or regularly sell non certified models must reassess their inventory strategy. Any unit that lacks ENERGY STAR certification will no longer qualify for rebates after November 26, which will reduce demand. Slow-moving stock will become harder to sell.

2. Revised quoting and proposal processes

Sales teams must update all proposals, price sheets, and system recommendations. Every quote must clearly state whether the model is ENERGY STAR or ENERGY STAR Cold Climate certified, along with its certified heating capacity at minus 8 °C. This information directly affects rebate amounts.

3. Increased demand for certified cold climate unitsHomeowners will prioritize models that qualify for the higher rebate level of 120 dollars per 1,000 BTU per hour at minus 8 °C. Installers who can supply these units reliably will win more jobs and close sales faster.

4. Higher expectations for technical accuracy

Installers must present certified performance data, including AHRI certificates, ENERGY STAR listings, and BTU values at minus 8 °C. Homeowners are becoming more informed. Transparency is now a competitive advantage, and incorrect data will damage credibility.

5. Adjusted scheduling and deadline pressure

Jobs involving non certified units must be completed before November 26. Installers must manage labour schedules, equipment delivery, and customer expectations carefully to avoid missing the deadline. Any installation completed after the cutoff will be judged under the new rules.

6. Reduced risk of callbacks from underperforming systems

Installers who adopt cold climate certified units will face fewer winter performance complaints. These systems maintain capacity at low temperatures, reduce backup heat use, and deliver stable comfort.

7. Stronger differentiation between contractors

Contractors who continue promoting low tier, non certified models will fall behind. Installers who adopt certified cold climate equipment, provide documentation, and follow updated procedures will stand out in the market.

The new LogisVert rules reward contractors who prioritize efficiency, performance, and accurate technical information. Dealers who adapt early will gain clear advantage in the Québec market.

Recommended Actions

The LogisVert 2025 update creates a clear set of priorities for both homeowners and installers. To maximize rebate eligibility, heating performance, and long-term cost savings, the following actions are required.

Recommended Actions for Homeowners

1. Verify ENERGY STAR certification before accepting any quote

Request documentation that confirms the model is ENERGY STAR or ENERGY STAR Cold Climate certified. Marketing brochures are not valid proof. Accept only AHRI certificates or ENERGY STAR listings.

2. Review the certified heating capacity at minus 8 °C

Rebates are calculated based on this number. A system with higher capacity at minus 8 °C receives a larger financial incentive. Compare models using real data, not nominal ratings.

3. Confirm low ambient performance

Check whether the unit maintains capacity at minus 15 °C and confirm the official COP at that temperature. This determines how the unit will perform during Québec winter conditions.

4. For non certified systems, installation must be completed before November 26, 2025

Delays reduce or eliminate rebate eligibility. If you already have a quote for a non certified unit, schedule installation immediately or switch to a certified cold climate model.

5. Ask the contractor if the system is designed to be the primary heat source

A cold climate heat pump can replace most or all of traditional electric heating, reducing winter electricity costs by up to 60 percent.

Recommended Actions for Installers and Dealers

1. Audit all product lines now

Identify which systems are ENERGY STAR certified and which are not. Remove non compliant systems from future proposals.

2. Update all quoting templates

Include certified heating capacity at minus 8 °C and confirm the system’s cold climate or standard ENERGY STAR classification.

3. Clear out non certified inventory before Q4 2025

Demand for these models will drop sharply after November 26.

4. Train staff on new eligibility rules

Sales and installation teams must understand the performance requirements, testing standards, and rebate calculations to avoid misinforming customers.

5. Secure supply of certified cold climate units

High demand is expected for systems that qualify for the 120 dollar per 1,000 BTU per hour rebate. Securing allocation early prevents supply bottlenecks.

6. Provide documentation with every sale

AHRI certificates, ENERGY STAR listings, and verified low ambient performance data must be part of every proposal.

Market Implications

The 2025 LogisVert update will reshape how heat pumps are selected, sold, and installed throughout Québec. By removing NEEP eligibility and relying exclusively on ENERGY STAR certification, the program pushes the market toward higher efficiency, stronger low temperature performance, and verifiable test data.

Market Implications

1. Strong shift toward high performance systems

Cold climate heat pumps that maintain capacity at low temperatures will dominate the market. Standard units will lose relevance once they no longer qualify for rebates.

2. Increased demand for cold climate certified models

Models that provide stable heating at minus 8 °C and strong capacity retention at minus 15 °C will become the default choice for homeowners.

3. Lower value for non certified models

Systems without certification will become harder to sell, especially once consumers realize they receive zero financial assistance under the new rules.

4. Higher expectations for technical accuracy

Homeowners will compare models based on certified BTU output at minus 8 °C, COP at minus 15 °C, HSPF2 ratings, and documented low temperature performance.

5. Clear separation between fast adapting and slow adapting contractors

Installers who embrace certified systems and provide verified documentation will gain competitive advantage. Those who continue to push low tier models will lose market share.

The November 26, 2025 LogisVert update requires homeowners and contractors to prioritize ENERGY STAR and ENERGY STAR Cold Climate certified systems. This ensures reliable winter heating, lower energy costs, and access to the correct rebate amounts.

Homeowners should verify certification, request AHRI and ENERGY STAR documentation, and confirm the unit’s performance at minus 8 °C and minus 15 °C before moving forward with any installation. Installers must update product lines, quoting templates, and scheduling to align with the new rules.

For the most accurate and up to date information, all homeowners and contractors must refer to the official LogisVert program page https://www.hydroquebec.com/residential/energy-wise/financial-assistance/logisvert/residential.html

Disclaimer

All information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute technical, legal, or financial advice. Program rules, rebate amounts, eligibility criteria, and certification requirements for the LogisVert Efficient Homes Program may change without notice. Heating performance values, temperature thresholds, and efficiency data referenced in this article are based on publicly available information and certified test procedures, but actual system performance may vary depending on installation quality, home conditions, and equipment configuration.

Homeowners and contractors must always verify all rebate eligibility, certified performance data, and program requirements directly with the official LogisVert Program website https://www.hydroquebec.com/residential/energy-wise/financial-assistance/logisvert/residential.html