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Canada’s Auto Industry Is Split on a U.S. Tariff Deal: What It Means for Your Wallet

  Canadian Money Brief • Tariffs & Trade • Saturday, November 14, 2026 Ottawa is once again trying to land a tariff deal with Washington. This time, the biggest fight may be inside Canada's own auto industry, and the outcome could reach your paycheque, your car purchase and your savings. Canada's auto manufacturers agree on the goal: get U.S. tariffs on Canadian-built vehicles down. They do not agree on how fast to move or what to accept. According to a Globe and Mail report published overnight, the Detroit Three (Ford, GM and Stellantis) want a deal sooner rather than later, even an imperfect one, while Honda and Toyota are pushing Ottawa toward a very different design. It matters now because of the clock. Canadian-built vehicles already face a 25% U.S. tariff on their non-American content, and Washington has threatened to double the headline rate to 50% on January 1, 2027. Honda has warned that doubling would be catastrophic for the North American industry. Prime Minister...
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Ottawa’s “Better Homes” Program: A Dual Solution for Climate Change and Affordability

 

Ottawa, the vibrant capital city of Canada, is stepping up its game to address two pressing challenges simultaneously: climate change and the affordability crisis. The recently launched “Better Homes” program aims to empower homeowners to retrofit their dwellings, making them more environmentally friendly while easing financial burdens.

The Better Homes Program: What You Need to Know

  1. Interest-Free Loans: Ottawa homeowners can now apply for low-interest loans to fund home retrofits. These upgrades include replacing windows, adding insulation, installing heat pumps, or setting up electric vehicle chargers. The loan amount is tied to the home’s value, allowing borrowers to access up to 10% of their property’s value, capped at $125,000.

  2. Long-Term Repayment: The loans are repaid over a 20-year period through property tax bills. This innovative approach ensures that the financial burden aligns with the benefits gained from energy-efficient improvements.

  3. Green Transition: Residential buildings contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. By focusing on heating, cooling, and electrifying homes and office spaces, Ottawa aims to reduce its carbon footprint. The Better Homes program encourages homeowners to embrace greener alternatives.

  4. Expert Guidance: The City of Ottawa has partnered with the environmental non-profit EnviroCentre to offer free energy retrofit planners to interested homeowners. These experts guide residents through the retrofit process, ensuring effective implementation.

Why It Matters

  • Climate Action: Retrofitting homes directly impacts Ottawa’s emissions. By enhancing energy efficiency, we move closer to achieving the city’s ambitious goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

  • Affordability: The Better Homes program recognizes that affordability and sustainability go hand in hand. It empowers homeowners to make cost-effective changes that benefit both their wallets and the planet.

  • Community Engagement: Educating diverse demographics about available support is crucial. City staff play a pivotal role in bridging this gap and ensuring that every homeowner can participate.

As Ottawa pioneers this initiative, it sets an example for other cities grappling with similar challenges. The Better Homes program proves that tackling climate change need not come at the expense of affordability—it’s a win-win for all.


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