Efficient Solutions Program - Small Business Component
QC, Canada
Maximize your energy efficiency savings with Hydro-Québec's Solutions efficaces program
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|minCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateNovember 14, 2019
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- grant_single|allIndustries
grant_single|grantors
- Gouvernement du Québec
- Hydro-Québec
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
The grant under the Solutions Efficaces program provides financial support for small businesses in Quebec to enhance energy efficiency and demand management projects in their commercial, institutional, or industrial buildings.
grant_single_labels|projects
Eligible projects under the grant include those focused on energy efficiency improvements and demand management measures for small businesses. These activities are designed to optimize energy consumption and enhance the performance of commercial, institutional, and industrial buildings.
- Energy efficiency measures implementing new, certified equipment to reduce electricity consumption.
- Demand management measures automating devices to reduce power demand during peak periods.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$100,000
Montreal
Implement a comprehensive energy efficiency upgrade for a manufacturing plant in Montreal.
$60,000
Montreal
Conduct energy analysis and efficiency upgrades in a Montreal-based educational institution.
$125,000
Quebec City
Upgrade energy systems in a healthcare facility in Quebec City for higher efficiency.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
The eligibility criteria for companies to qualify for this grant are as follows:
- The buildings targeted by the projects must be located in Quebec.
- The buildings must be subject to the tariff G for electricity service and delivery.
- They must be intended for activities related to commercial, institutional, or industrial markets.
- They must be supplied with electricity by Hydro-Québec, an eligible Autonomous Network, or an eligible Municipal or cooperative Network.
- Buildings under construction with temporary electrical connections are only eligible under the Medium and Large Enterprises component.
- Projects submitted by participants in the agricultural market must apply under the Agricultural component of the Solutions Efficaces program.
- A separate building unit rented under a lease is also eligible.
- For new buildings, a billing history of at least three months is required prior to submitting the project.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Solutions efficaces Program's "Small Business" component by Hydro-Québec is tailored for small businesses to improve energy efficiency and demand management in Quebec. Types of companies eligible include those participating in commercial, institutional, or industrial markets under specific conditions.
- Small businesses in commercial, institutional, or industrial markets.
- Companies whose buildings are subject to the G Rate for electricity service and delivery.
- Businesses within Hydro-Québec's power network, an eligible autonomous network, or a municipal or cooperative network in Quebec.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
The grant has specific restrictions on the types of companies and industries that are not eligible. Primarily, these restrictions are related to the status of the company and the nature of its activity.
- Organismes publics (public organizations)
- Projects required for compliance with laws, regulations, or standards of Quebec or Canada
- Projects with a negative impact on health, safety, or the environment
- Projects that violate laws or regulations
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This grant covers specific eligible expenses related to energy efficiency and demand management projects.
- Purchase and installation costs of new certified or accredited equipment for energy efficiency measures
- Use of new or existing equipment certified or accredited for demand management measures
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
Eligible companies for this grant are those established in Quebec, Canada, as the program is administered by Hydro-Québec, a regional energy provider. This includes businesses situated within specific networks and regions as outlined by the program.
- Quebec, Canada
- Réseaux autonomes admissibles
- Réseaux municipaux ou coopératifs admissibles
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The criteria include:
- Energy efficiency measures proposed
- Financial feasibility
- Expected energy savings
- Relevance to the program
grant_single_labels|register
Step 1: Preparation of the Project (Preparation)
- Download the version of the OSE tool corresponding to the Date of Beginning of the Project's Work and use it to assess the financial support.
- Become familiar with the Participation Guide, its annex, and the Conditions and Commitments.
- Validate the eligibility of energy efficiency measures and power demand management measures in the Participation Guide and in OSE.
Step 2: Submission of the Completed Project (Submission)
- Complete the OSE files following the prescribed steps.
- Send to bureau.eeaffaires@hydroquebec.com:
- Duly completed OSE files, including the Project Completion Confirmation.
- If applicable, the Aggregator Participation Notice.
- Copy of all purchase, installation, and programming invoices for each energy efficiency or power demand management measure implemented.
- Proof showing that the building targeted by the completed Project is subject to rate G.
Step 3: Compliance Verification and Approval of the Completed Project (Verification and Approval)
- Hydro-Québec may require additional documents proving the implementation of energy efficiency measures or power demand management measures.
- Possibility for Hydro-Québec to visit the Project site to ensure compliance with the conducted Work and Program requirements after prior notice.
- Approval or revision of financial support if the Work conducted is not in conformity with the presented Project or Program requirements.
- Inform the Participant of the financial support amount to be granted, if applicable.
Step 4: Billing of Financial Support and Applicable Taxes (Billing)
- The Participant must issue an original invoice via their accounting system according to tax considerations.
- Send the invoice to Hydro-Québec at bureau.eeaffaires@hydroquebec.com no later than thirty (30) days post-receipt of the billing request.
Step 5: Disbursement of Financial Support (Disbursement)
- Approximately forty-five (45) days after receipt of the conforming original invoice, Hydro-Québec issues the approved financial support amount if all Program requirements are fulfilled.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
In addition to the mentioned criteria, there are several important aspects for the grant applicant to consider:
- The role and responsibilities of Aggregators and Partners are essential for applying, managing, and implementing projects, which might involve filling documents and ensuring project compliance.
- A comprehensive understanding of the project's financial process is critical, notably regarding the Remuneration incitative calculation and payment methods.
- Knowledge of the financial tool OSE, which is vital for project financial evaluation and submission, is imperative.
- There is a requirement for Participants to adhere to specific requirements under the French Language Charter when submitting documents.
- Timeframes for submitting invoices and documents are strict, with potential consequences for delays, such as file closure or non-payment.
- Detailed examples of financial calculations can provide insights into financial expectations and planning.
grant_single_labels|contact
affaires@hydroquebec.com
1-800-463-9900
Apply to this program
Petites Entreprises Efficiency Solutions Grant
The Petites Entreprises Efficiency Solutions Grant by Hydro-Québec aims to support small businesses in Quebec by providing financial incentives for projects that enhance energy efficiency and demand management in commercial, institutional, and industrial buildings. This grant is specifically designed for enterprises that operate under the tariff G and encourages sustainable energy practices across various sectors.
Understanding the Petites Entreprises Efficiency Solutions Grant
Hydro-Québec's Petites Entreprises Efficiency Solutions Grant represents a significant initiative aimed at promoting energy efficiency and better management of power demand among small businesses in Quebec. This initiative is an integral part of the broader Solutions efficaces program, which encompasses several dimensions to cater to diverse client needs, including Simplified and Customized Offers for different sectors. The primary focus of this particular grant is to encourage enterprises to adopt energy-efficient practices that are not only beneficial for the environment but also lead to substantial cost savings in the long run.
One of the most critical aspects of this grant is its emphasis on the integration of power demand management measures. Participants can benefit financially by executing eligible demand management projects, which are specially designed to optimize electricity consumption during peak periods. This strategic approach not only assists individual businesses in reducing their electricity bills but also supports the broader grid management efforts of Hydro-Québec.
The grant targets a specific clientele—small businesses that fall under the tariff G category, which pertains to the delivery and service of electricity. By focusing on the needs of these small-scale enterprises, Hydro-Québec ensures that even the smaller players in the market have the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from the transition towards energy efficiency. It's important to note that this initiative excludes public organizations whose projects are handled under the segment for medium and large enterprises.
Moreover, the application process for this grant is streamlined to cater specifically to small businesses, utilizing a tool known as the Outil Solutions efficaces (OSE). This tool allows participants to quickly assess the potential financial support available for implementing pre-defined energy efficiency measures and power demand management strategies. By removing some of the complexities often associated with accessing grants, this program makes it easier for businesses to take proactive steps towards sustainability.
An important detail to mention is that the grant supports projects involving new equipment aimed at improving the energy performance of buildings, systems, or processes. Furthermore, the program stipulates that all equipment purchased must be new and certified either by recognized market-independent agencies or by Hydro-Québec itself, ensuring that the innovations implemented meet high standards of quality and efficacy.
Beyond mere installation, the grant encourages businesses to maintain an ongoing relationship with the program by committing to a power demand management tariff for five years post the financial assistance disbursal. This condition not only emphasizes sustained engagement but also aligns with broader energy management goals, ensuring that the benefits of the grant persist long after the initial project completion.
In conclusion, the Petites Entreprises Efficiency Solutions Grant is a comprehensive and forward-thinking initiative by Hydro-Québec, tailored to propel small businesses in Quebec towards a sustainable and efficient future. By targeting vital sectors and supporting them with robust financial incentives, the grant not only aids in cost reduction but also impacts energy conservation efforts positively across the province. This strategic focus on energy efficiency not only aids businesses in saving costs but also contributes significantly to the province's overall energy conservation goals. With continued participation in this grant program, small businesses stand well-positioned to embrace a future that prioritizes sustainability and efficiency without sacrificing their operational needs.
