What Does ÉcoPerformance Fund? Understanding Eligible Expenses
The ÉcoPerformance program, specifically its Recommissioning of Building Mechanical Systems stream, offers financial support to organizations aiming to enhance energy efficiency by optimizing mechanical systems in existing buildings. This initiative is part of Quebec's broader strategy to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Understanding what expenses can be funded is crucial for organizations planning to apply.
Program Funding Overview
ÉcoPerformance provides funding to support energy optimization projects for building mechanical systems, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and lighting systems. This program is open to various energy forms used in buildings. For complete eligibility requirements, see the complete program guide.
Funding Amounts & Rates
The program's funding is designed to cover a portion of the costs associated with recommissioning projects. Funding rates depend on the specific measures implemented and their potential for reducing energy consumption. Visit the complete program guide for current funding rates.
Eligible Expenses
ÉcoPerformance covers a range of expenses aimed at optimizing building systems. Eligible expenses include:
Salaries and Wages: Costs for staff directly involved in the recommissioning project.
Equipment and Materials: Purchase or lease of equipment necessary for implementing energy-saving measures.
Consulting Fees: Costs for external experts conducting analyses, verifications, and providing technical support.
Software: Costs related to software tools used for energy management and monitoring.
These expenses must be directly associated with the recommissioning activities and demonstrate a clear impact on reducing energy consumption.
Ineligible Expenses
While ÉcoPerformance offers comprehensive coverage, certain costs are excluded:
Routine Maintenance: Regular upkeep activities not directly tied to energy optimization.
New Construction: Costs associated with new building construction.
Non-Essential Equipment: Items that do not contribute to energy savings.
For a detailed list of ineligible expenses, refer to the complete program guide.
Expense Documentation Requirements
Applicants must provide thorough documentation to support their funding requests, including:
Invoices and Receipts: For all claimed expenses.
Contracts and Agreements: For services and equipment purchases.
Progress Reports: Documenting the implementation and impact of energy-saving measures.
Proper documentation is crucial for the approval and reimbursement process.
Examples of Funded Projects
Successful projects often include comprehensive energy audits followed by targeted interventions such as:
Retrofitting HVAC systems to improve efficiency.
Upgrading lighting systems to LED technology.
Implementing advanced energy management software.
These examples illustrate the diversity of projects supported by ÉcoPerformance, each contributing to significant energy savings.
Funding Disbursement & Claiming Process
Funding is typically disbursed upon completion of project milestones. Applicants must submit claims with supporting documentation to receive reimbursement. The full application process is outlined in the complete program guide.
Stacking Rules
ÉcoPerformance allows stacking with other funding programs, but total funding must not exceed certain limits. For specific stacking rules, consult the complete program guide.
Conclusion
ÉcoPerformance offers substantial support for organizations looking to enhance energy efficiency in their buildings. By understanding eligible expenses and preparing thorough documentation, applicants can maximize their chances of securing funding. For detailed guidelines and application steps, refer to the complete program guide.
