How much funding can be received?

Get financial support for your project that will help reduce the use of fossil fuels for heating and electricity by increasing the use of clean energy in remote and rural communities.

grant_single_labels|projects

The program targets Indigenous, rural, and remote communities in Canada which often rely on diesel and fossil fuels for energy. Eligible geographical areas are defined by specific criteria related to their connectivity and population density.

Communities that are connected to the North American electrical grid but not to the piped natural gas network, with a population under 5,000 and a density less than 400 people per square kilometre.
Permanent or long-term settlements not connected to the North American electrical grid or piped natural gas network, and having at least 10 dwellings.
Northern Remote Communities.

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$400,000

Installing a biomass heating system for a community center

$280,000

Developing a district heating system to enhance energy efficiency in a remote community

$400,000

Deployment of renewable energy projects in a remote Indigenous community

$120,000

Research and development of a combined heat and power system for a sustainable eco-village

$200,000

Implementing a biomass heating system in a rural collective farming community

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Eligibility for the Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities program is dependent on specific criteria related to the applicant and project location.

The applicant must be part of or work with Indigenous, rural, or remote communities in Canada.
The community must be either rural or remote as defined by the program criteria.
The project must focus on clean energy solutions, including biomass heating, district heating, or combined heat and power systems.
The project should aim to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

The Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities (CERRC) program is aimed primarily at Indigenous communities, rural communities, and remote communities within Canada. Projects that involve partnerships between these communities and other entities such as municipalities, non-profit organizations, or private sector companies may also be eligible. The program encourages projects that support the transition to clean energy with a focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels through the use of local renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

Eligible expenses for the Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities Program may include, but are not limited to:

Costs associated with implementing biomass heating, district heating, and combined heat and power systems
Research, development, and demonstration project expenses
Community capacity building initiatives
Deployment of renewable energy projects
Energy efficiency measures
Consultation and engagement with Indigenous, rural, and remote communities

grant_single_labels|criteria

The evaluation and selection criteria for this grant are:

Alignment with program objectives and priorities
Feasibility and sustainability of the project
Community engagement and support
Demonstrated benefits to the community
Capacity building and knowledge transfer
Financial viability and budget justification

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

Step 1: Contact Form Submission
- Submit a contact form through the provided link to discuss your project and check the most suitable stream.
- Indicate your community vision, idea, or project details.
- Await contact from the program representatives to guide you through the next steps.
Step 2: Application Request
- If required, request an application by email to officially begin your application process.
- Ensure to state your project clearly to confirm its eligibility.
Step 3: Ongoing Basis Review
- Note that applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis, subject to fund availability.
- Keep informed about the status of your application through regular communication with program representatives.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

There is no additional information mentioned for this grant.

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Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities

Apply to this program

Empowering Clean Energy Solutions for Remote Communities

The Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities (CERRC) program seeks to enhance energy independence by funding renewable energy projects, reducing fossil fuel reliance in indigenous and isolated areas. This initiative supports sustainable development while promoting economic and environmental benefits for communities.

Making Strides Towards Energy Independence and Sustainability

The Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities (CERRC) program represents a concerted effort by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) to transition Indigenous, rural, and remote communities towards sustainable energy solutions. With a substantial investment over recent years, the program's core objective is to mitigate the extensive use of diesel and other fossil fuels for heat and power, which are the predominant energy sources in these isolated communities. By redirecting focus to biomass heating, district heating, combined heat and power systems, and more, the program not only aims to diminish greenhouse gas emissions but also to foster local economic growth and energy security.

Since its launch, CERRC has allocated significant funds to a variety of projects tailored to meet the unique needs of these communities. These projects range from capacity building and community engagement to the deployment and demonstration of cutting-edge renewable technologies. Despite the high demand and current limitations in available funding, the program continues to encourage applications in key areas, ensuring preparedness to allocate resources efficiently as more funds become accessible.

The emphasis on clean energy solutions is intertwined with broader objectives such as reconciliation, self-determination, and economic advancement for Indigenous peoples. Energy autonomy is a critical step towards empowering communities, offering them control over their energy sources, and consequently, their economic and social development. This alignment with Indigenous values ensures that clean energy projects do not just provide environmental benefits but also contribute to cultural and community resilience.

NRCan's innovative approach includes the establishment of an Indigenous Council to guide its endeavors, ensuring that the funding process is more transparent, inclusive, and aligned with the priorities of the communities it serves. Simplified reporting processes and flexible guidelines further accommodate the unique circumstances of these remote locations, ensuring that obstacles common in bureaucratic processes are minimized.

The transition towards renewable energy not only highlights the reduction of environmental impacts but also presents numerous economic opportunities for local businesses. These projects can create jobs, enhance technical skills, and stimulate local economies, fostering a virtuous cycle of growth and sustainability. By showcasing previously funded projects, NRCan demonstrates the tangible benefits and success stories that serve as a benchmark for future initiatives.

Ultimately, the CERRC program underscores a forward-thinking vision that aspires to transform energy landscapes across Canada. As rural and remote communities gain access to sustainable energy, the reliance on costly and polluting diesel decreases, allowing these regions to thrive economically while preserving their natural environments. Through continuous dialogues, educational resources, and collaborative efforts, NRCan remains committed to driving innovative solutions that benefit all Canadians, particularly those who reside in the country's most remote areas.