NICKEL BELT – GREATER SUDBURY - Putting a price on carbon pollution is the most cost-effective way to fight climate change and to hold big polluters accountable. In provinces where the federal pollution pricing system applies, Climate Action Incentive rebates are issued quarterly throughout the year and put money back into Canadians’ pockets.

On January 15th, people in Ontario received their first Climate Action Incentive payment and they will receive their next payment on April 15^th, 2024. Payment amounts are $244 for a family of 4, $183 for a couple and $122 for an adult living alone. Recently, the supplement for eligible residents living in rural areas was increased by 20%. 

Since 2019, every jurisdiction in Canada has implemented a price on carbon pollution. As 2024 kicks off, the Government of Canada reiterates its commitment to pollution pricing and its crucial role in meeting targets to cut emissions by 40 percent below 2005 levels by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Estimates show that pollution pricing will contribute about a third of the total reductions in emissions that will occur between now and 2030. Putting a price on pollution and returning the proceeds to eligible Canadians through rebates provides support for individuals and families while also maintaining an incentive to reduce emissions. “Despite it being a tax, the federal price on pollution is revenue neutral, meaning the majority of people receive more back than they pay,” said Serré.

“The price on pollution is high-profile policy that sparks conflicting reactions. However, it is undeniable that we are facing unprecedented consequences from climate change which includes more devastating fires, floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters around the globe,” said Serré. “The cost of rebuilding communities after these extreme weather events is significant. In 2023, insured losses in Canada reached $3.1B, the fourth highest amount ever reported in the country’s history. These numbers under-represent the full cost of damage with much going unreported and borne by the taxpayer. Actions to evacuate and relocate people often pose severe psychological and emotional trauma and can devastate communities. Thus, the fight against climate change must include adaptation and strong action to build community resilience in anticipation of these continued changes.

As Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Serré supports the Minister on many issues such as the implementation of National Firefighters to address forest risk management and to address the country’s never before seen forest fire season of 2023. Canada’s response to climate action must remain a priority and be addressed without delay.

“I’m proud to be part of a government that continually supports green investments which in turn creates jobs and leverages our economy. In 2022 we doubled down to attract investments and jobs in manufacturing zero emissions vehicles in Canada through the $8 billion Net Zero Accelerator. We launched the Canada Greener Home Grants and have recently paused the collection of the fuel charge on home heating oil across the country to further encourage the switch to heat pumps,” said Serré.

To be eligible for the climate action incentive payment (the rebate on the price on pollution,) a person must simply file their income tax. The payment is not income tested. It is important to note that couples married or in a common law situation will receive a joint payment issued to whoever had their taxes assessed first.

Depending on your bank, your payment may appear with a different deposit name ranging from “Pre Auth Credit Canada” or “CAIP” for example. If you have not received your climate action incentive payment, you can reach the Canada Revenue Agency for more assistance at 1-800-387-1193.

“The price on pollution is only one of the pillars of the Federal government’s plan to ensure a cleaner tomorrow for future generations. Ultimately, protecting the environment while also tackling national affordability challenges is possible and necessary – which is why we have made great strides in both. I encourage Nickel Belt constituents and people across the country to be weary of misinformation and to get their facts from credible sources. We can all play a role in creating a more inclusive and strong democracy for all,” finished Serré.

Quick facts

• The Government of Canada does not keep any direct proceeds from carbon pollution pricing. All direct proceeds are returned to the province or territory of origin.
• Families in Ontario will receive a Climate Action Incentive payment every three months by cheque or by direct deposit. As is the case in other provinces where the federal fuel charge applies, residents need to file their annual tax returns to receive their Climate Action Incentive payments.
• Over the past five decades, the costs of weather-related disasters like floods, storms and wildfires in Canada have risen. Between 2010 and 2019, insured losses for catastrophic weather events totalled over $18 billion, and the number of catastrophic events was over three times higher than in the 1980s.
• The Federal government continues to offer incentives to purchase heat pumps through the Canada Greener Homes Grant, which is available to all Canadians. Additional incentives may be available in collaboration with your provincial government.
• Because home heating oil is relatively expensive, inefficient, and carbon-intensive, the federal government has recently paused the collection of the fuel charge on home heating oil across the country in order to preserve affordability. The government has also accelerated efforts to transition households to convert heating oil to heat pumps.
• The Federal government is also subsidizing electric vehicle purchases with a $5000 contribution.

Associated links

• Find out if you qualify for the supplement for residents of small and rural communities
• MP Serré offers clarity to Nickel Belt constituents
• How carbon pricing works
• Estimated Impacts of the Federal Carbon Pollution Pricing System
• Climate action incentive payment
• Making home heating more affordable for Canadians

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Contact

Kaylie Dudgeon,
Special Assistant
Marc G. Serré, MP for Nickel Belt, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Official Languages
705-507-2416