How much funding can be received?

The grant supports participants in conducting analyses aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions through consulting firms or internal specialists. Eligible projects can be categorized into standard or complex analyses, focusing on improving building or industrial processes.

Standard analyses
Complex analyses
Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
Improvement of building efficiency
Industrial process optimization

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$75,000

Quebec City

Conducting a technical-economic study to optimize the energy systems in a residential complex

$90,000

Toronto

Upgrading insulation in a historic library to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs

$63,750

Calgary

Conducting energy management certification for a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental conservation

$135,000

Ottawa

Installing solar panels to reduce fossil fuel consumption in a community center

$300,000

Montreal

Implementing a new energy-efficient HVAC system to reduce GHG emissions in a manufacturing plant

$187,500

Vancouver

System optimization of an industrial refrigeration unit to reduce fugitive emissions and improve efficiency

grant_single_labels|admissibility

This grant is designed to support participants who engage specialized firms or conduct their own studies to analyze measures aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It targets participants who are unaware of potential solutions or who wish to assess the feasibility of potential measures to improve their buildings or industrial processes.

The participant must engage in an analysis of measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The analysis can be either standard or complex.
Eligible expenses include fees for external consultants and internal specialists, as well as costs related to measurement equipment.
The participant must follow the detailed application steps provided in the program guidelines.
A signatory authorized by the Registre des entreprises du Québec (REQ) must sign the application documents.
An engineer who is a member of the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ) must sign the analysis description.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

The ÉcoPerformance program is open to various types of participants who are interested in reducing greenhouse gas emissions through analysis and feasibility studies of potential measures. Specifically, it caters to participants who choose to engage specialized firms or carry out their own studies for improvements in their buildings or industrial processes.

Participants interested in performing analysis to reduce GHG emissions.
Entities seeking to explore feasibility measures for industrial process improvements.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

Yes, there are eligible expenses for this grant. These cover costs associated with consultants, internal specialists, and equipment necessary for analysis.

Consultant fees
Salaries and benefits for internal specialists including travel expenses
Rental costs of measurement equipment
Purchase costs of measurement equipment for analysis

grant_single_labels|criteria

There are specific evaluation and selection criteria for the ÉcoPerformance program grant aimed at encouraging participants to undertake analyses for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These criteria assess the completeness of the application and the eligibility of the proposed project.

Completeness of the application, including submission of required forms and documents.
Eligibility of expenses, only considering those after the date of admissibility.
Conformity with the program's objectives and guidelines.
Capacity of the applicant to carry out the proposed analysis.
Qualification of the engineers involved, ensuring they are members of the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ).

grant_single_labels|register

Step 1: You must provide the following documents:
The completed Financial Assistance Application Form in Excel, tabs 1 and 3.1.
The Financial Assistance Application Form in PDF, signed and dated by the authorized signatory.
The Description of the Analysis, signed and dated by an engineer.
Send these documents by email to: transitionenergetique.affaires@mern.gouv.qc.ca.
Step 2: After receiving a complete application, a program officer will be assigned to your file for evaluation. If your application meets the program criteria, you will receive an eligible expense date. Commitments made and expenses incurred before this date are not eligible and could render the project ineligible.
Step 3: Following the complete evaluation of your application and confirmation of file eligibility, you will receive the Confirmation of Financial Assistance Agreement Conditions, which you must complete to confirm specific details of your application. You will then be informed by letter of the maximum financial assistance that can be granted. Finally, a financial assistance agreement will be sent to you for signature by both parties.
Step 4: To receive the first financial assistance payment, you must provide a dated and signed copy of the purchase order authorizing the chosen company to carry out the analysis. The first payment of financial assistance corresponds to 50% of the financial assistance granted, following your financial assistance agreement terms.
Step 5: Within 24 months from the effective date of the financial assistance agreement, you must provide:
The Analysis Report, signed and dated by an engineer.
The updated Financial Assistance Application Form with tabs 2 and 3.1 duly completed and updated.
After validating the conformity of the analysis report and other documents, the second and final payment, corresponding to the maximum residual financial assistance awarded to the analysis, will be confirmed by the MELCCFP.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

The maximum financial assistance available under the EcoPerformance program has been increased to $75,000 for standard analyses of major energy consumers.
Project completion deadlines have been extended for most program components.
Maximum financial assistance of $10,000 has been added for companies obtaining ISO 50001 certification under the Energy Management component.

grant_single_labels|documents

ÉcoPerformance — Standard Analysis Stream

grant_single_labels|contact

transitionenergetique.affaires@mern.gouv.qc.ca

1 866-266-0008

Apply to this program

Grant Overview: ÉcoPerformance Analysis Program

The ÉcoPerformance Analysis Program provides financial support for businesses aiming to conduct in-depth analyses to identify measures for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This grant is designed to assist participants in exploring potential solutions and assessing the feasibility of energy-saving initiatives for building or industrial process improvement.

Understanding the ÉcoPerformance Analysis Program

In the contemporary global context, addressing climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions are imperative priorities for governments and businesses alike. The ÉcoPerformance Analysis Program, initiated by the Government of Québec, is a targeted initiative that encourages businesses to delve into the specifics of energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction through comprehensive analyses. By providing financial assistance, the program aims to bridge the gap for companies that are exploring sustainable solutions but require expert input to understand their feasibility and impacts better.

Program Objective and Scope

The primary objective of the ÉcoPerformance Analysis Program is to foster a deeper understanding of energy-saving opportunities and greenhouse gas reduction in industrial and commercial settings. The program is meticulously designed to support organizations that need clarity on potential solutions or wish to scrutinize various strategies for enhancing energy efficiency in their operations. It promotes a dual approach—conducting either standard or complex analyses, each with distinct financial support terms.

Financial Assistance Details

The program offers financial aid, with a specific focus on covering expenses related to analyses conducted by external consultants or internal specialists. The financial assistance is structured as follows:

Standard Analysis: The financial support covers 50% of eligible expenses, up to a maximum of CAD 25,000, with a ceiling of CAD 75,000 per project.
Complex Analysis: This includes a higher coverage of 75% of eligible expenses, capped at CAD 100,000, with a maximum financial aid limit of CAD 300,000 per project.

Eligible Expenses

The grant comprehensively covers various categories of expenses connected with the analysis, which includes:

Consultant fees for external expertise.
Compensation for internal specialists, encompassing salary, social benefits, and travel expenses, within project-specific admissible limits.
Costs associated with renting or purchasing measurement equipment essential for completing the analysis, with ownership transferring to the participant.

Participation and Application Process

The application for the ÉcoPerformance Analysis Program follows a systematic approach to ensure consistency and fairness. Here are the key steps involved:

Initial Submission: Participants must submit the financial aid application form in both Excel and PDF formats, signed and dated by an authorized signatory. A comprehensive description of the analysis, endorsed by a licensed engineer, must accompany these documents. The completed application should be emailed to the specified address within the transition energetics department.
Assignment and Evaluation: Once the application is submitted, a program officer is assigned to the dossier to evaluate its comprehensiveness and adherence to the program's criteria. A date for eligibility of expenses, known as the “date d’antériorité,” is provided upon successful evaluation, ensuring that any commitments or expenses are post-dated and valid for reimbursement.
Confirmation and Contract Signing: Upon confirming the eligibility, participants receive a detailed document outlining the conditions of the financial aid agreement. Both parties must sign this agreement, which specifies the maximum financial aid amount available.
Disbursement of Financial Aid: For the initial disbursement, participants must provide proof of a formal purchase order indicating that the chosen firm is authorized to perform the analysis. The first installment equals 50% of the agreed financial aid, based on the contract terms.
Completion and Final Payment: Within 24 months of the financial aid agreement's effective date, participants should submit a detailed analysis report, signed and dated by an engineer, along with updated sections of the financial aid application form. Following the validation of these documents, the remaining financial support amount is disbursed by the Ministry of Environment and the Fight Against Climate Change (MELCCFP).

Key Considerations for Applicants

Organizations considering applying for this grant should ensure they meet specific eligibility criteria and adhere strictly to the procedural requirements. Notably, all signatories must be registered with the Québec Enterprise Registry. Additionally, engineering endorsements must come from members of the Québec Order of Engineers. Understanding and anticipating these administrative requirements can significantly increase the chances of a successful application.

Benefits of Participating in the Program

Participation in the ÉcoPerformance Analysis Program offers multiple benefits to businesses:

Cost Savings: By funding studies, businesses can identify and implement energy-saving measures, reducing operational costs significantly in the long term.
Environmental Impact: The strategic identification and reduction of greenhouse gases contribute to a sustainable environment, aligning with global climate goals and enhancing corporate social responsibility profiles.
Expert Guidance: Participants gain access to specialist knowledge and technology, equipping them with innovative solutions and advanced strategies for modernization and sustainability.
Competitive Edge: Implementing sustainable practices can enhance a company’s market position by appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and investors.

Conclusion

The ÉcoPerformance Analysis Program is a crucial step for Québec businesses in their journey toward sustainability and energy efficiency. By fostering detailed analyses and providing financial support, the program not only aids in reducing the environmental footprint but also enhances the economic resilience of participating companies. Organizations aiming to lower their greenhouse gas emissions while benefiting from innovative energy solutions should consider leveraging this program as part of their strategic approach to sustainability.

For companies that are at the forefront of Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy, the ÉcoPerformance Analysis Program provides a structured pathway to explore, understand, and implement impactful energy solutions. This program is an exemplary model of how government initiatives can drive corporate responsibility and environmental stewardship in today’s business landscape.