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By Émile Audet
December 8, 2025

Who Can Apply for the Efficient Solutions Program: Eligibility Guide

Hydro-Québec's Efficient Solutions Program targets medium and large businesses seeking to improve their energy efficiency. This guide will help you determine if your organization qualifies for financial support under this initiative. The program aims to enhance energy performance in commercial, institutional, and industrial settings across Quebec.

Program Overview

The Efficient Solutions Program offers substantial financial incentives to businesses that adopt energy-efficient equipment and systems. Eligible participants can receive up to 75% of their project costs covered. For more detailed eligibility criteria, consult the complete program guide.

Applicant Type Requirements

Eligible applicants include medium and large businesses operating in Quebec, engaged in commercial, institutional, or industrial activities. It is essential that these businesses are subject to Hydro-Québec's business rates, specifically G9, M, L, or LG. To verify your rate, refer to the Details of costs section on your electricity bill.

Size & Scale Criteria

The program is designed for medium and large businesses, which generally encompass enterprises with substantial operational scales and energy consumption. Details on specific size requirements, such as employee count or revenue thresholds, can be found in the complete program guide.

Geographic Eligibility

This program is available to businesses located within Quebec, with a focus on enhancing regional energy efficiency. While the program targets medium and large businesses, smaller enterprises may also find opportunities under different components of the initiative.

Project & Activity Requirements

Projects eligible for funding typically involve purchasing and installing energy-efficient equipment, such as advanced heat pumps or automation systems for demand response management. These projects must demonstrate a clear potential for energy savings and operational efficiency improvements.

Financial & Operational Criteria

Applicants must demonstrate sound financial health and compliance with all relevant tax obligations. The program excludes businesses currently involved in bankruptcy proceedings. For a comprehensive list of financial criteria, please refer to the complete program guide.

Ineligible Applicants

Businesses not subject to the specified Hydro-Québec rates, or those engaged in activities that do not align with the program's energy efficiency goals, are ineligible. For more details on exclusions, see the complete program guide.

Special Cases & Exceptions

There are provisions for joint applications with partners such as consulting engineering firms. Special considerations may apply to Indigenous organizations and social enterprises. Specific cases are detailed in the complete program guide.

Self-Assessment Checklist

  • Is your business located in Quebec?

  • Are you subject to Hydro-Québec's business rates G9, M, L, or LG?

  • Is your project related to energy-efficient equipment installation?

  • Does your business meet the financial and operational criteria?

Conclusion

Understanding the eligibility requirements of the Efficient Solutions Program can position your business to take full advantage of Hydro-Québec's energy efficiency initiatives. For a thorough exploration of eligibility and application details, the complete program guide serves as a critical resource.

About the author

Émile Audet - Canadian grants specialist

Émile Audet

Canadian grants specialist
Working at helloDarwin for some time now, I'm in charge of providing you with the information you need on government aid. Dedicated to helping companies in Quebec and Canada reach their full potential, I write on the helloDarwin blog about the various programs, allowances and funding available to enable organizations to make their digital transformation through access to federal and provincial support.

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