A new amendment to the province's Green Energy Act will allow home buyers to waive their right to the $300 audit, as long as they do so in writing.

The change will provide more flexibility in cases where the buyer intends to knock down the property or do major renovations, Smitherman said.

Ontario realtors have complained the additional costs would hurt homeowners in what are increasingly difficult economic times.

The Liberal government is backing off from the audits because it's afraid of the public backlash, said interim Progressive Conservative Leader Bob Runciman.

Many homebuyers will also be hit with additional costs when the province merges its eight per cent sales tax with the five per cent federal GST, he said.

The legislation will also be amended so residents will have an easier time objecting to wind turbine projects near their homes.