From the Comox Valley Regional District:

"The Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD) encourages qualifying homeowners to exchange their old woodstoves for high-efficiency, low-emission appliances that are Canadian Standard Association (CSA) or Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved. 

The wood stove exchange program will run from February 1 until April 30, 2016 with 40 $250 rebates being offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The rebates are available to registered owners of legal dwelling units throughout the Comox Valley who use wood for their primary heat source and who replace their old wood stove for a new CSA/EPA certified wood stove.  The wood stove exchange rebate also applies to those exchanging an existing non-CSA/EPA certified wood stove for a pellet stove or energy efficient gas stove/fireplace. 

Compared to old, inefficient stoves, new wood stoves burn one-third less wood, reduce the risk of chimney fires and reduce smoke emissions, including particulate matter, by up to 90 per cent.

“The goal of this provincially funded program is to help reduce neighbourhood wood smoke,” said CVRD board of directors chair Bruce Jolliffe. “Over the last several years, the Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with the Vancouver Island Heath Authority, has issued multiple air quality advisories for this region. This funding allows us the opportunity to reduce community air pollution, respond to citizens’ concerns, and support participating homeowners who will benefit through improved air quality and cost savings associated with a new, more efficient, appliance.” 

Two ways to apply for the wood stove rebate:

• The CVRD has partnered with three local heating appliance retailers: Bennett Sheet Metal and Heating, Comox Fireplace and Patio, and Rainforest Outdoor Living. These retailers will confirm your eligibility, provide a tracking number for your application, complete the installation, remove and decommission your old stove, and help complete your rebate application. 
• Alternatively, if residents want to purchase the new appliance from another retailer, or want to personally handle the installation, contact the CVRD’s wood stove exchange program co-ordinator at 250-339-2241 or by email at wsrebate@gmail.com to confirm eligibility, and get a tracking number and the rebate application form.    

For more information on the wood stove exchange program including details of upcoming smart burning workshops, visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/woodstove .

The Comox Valley Regional District is a federation of three electoral areas and three municipalities providing sustainable services for residents and visitors to the area. The members of the regional district work collaboratively on services for the benefit of the diverse urban and rural areas of the Comox Valley."