The federal government says details on how to apply for a new grant to help low to middle-income homeowners convert from oil to electric heat pumps will be announced in the coming weeks.

Those who earn up to $53,000 after taxes and who own their own homes are eligible to apply.

MP Gudie Hutchings says a grant of up to $5,000 will be provided up-front for those looking to convert. The money can be used for the pump, installation, electrical upgrades required to accommodate the heat pump or removal of the old oil tank.

She says they wanted to make the program flexible and it will work with a rebate program being offered by the provincial government.