Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program
Canada
Funding to reduce GHG emissions with renewables and grid modernization
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|noCondition
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateJune 18, 2021
- grant_single|closingDateNovember 16, 2022
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Utilities
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Other services (except public administration)
grant_single|grantors
- Government of Canada
- Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|closed
grant_single_labels|preview
Get a repayable contribution of up to $25 million for a project that involves renewable energy, an emerging technology, or grid modernization, and covers up to 10%, 30% and 50% of the project costs for each of these 3 streams, respectively.
grant_single_labels|projects
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$3,500,000
Development of a 2 MW onshore wind farm
$10,000,000
Construction of a small hydroelectric plant for local energy supply
$7,500,000
Modernization of the electrical grid using advanced distribution management systems
$6,000,000
Installation of a 5 MW solar photovoltaic system
$12,500,000
Implementation of an energy storage initiative to support grid reliability
$15,000,000
Creation of a biomass energy facility to generate electricity and heat
grant_single_labels|admissibility
The Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREPs) provides funding for renewable energy and grid modernization projects aimed at reducing emissions, increasing system reliability, creating economic and social benefits, and expanding renewable energy capacity.
- Projects must use market-ready technologies and promote workplace equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Eligible projects include large-scale renewable energy projects, energy storage projects, and grid modernization projects.
- Priority is given to projects that decrease greenhouse gas emissions, increase system reliability, generate economic benefits, and promote equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Indigenous ownership and benefits from projects are encouraged, and projects must align with program outcomes and priorities.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligible companies for the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program grant include companies involved in large-scale renewable energy projects, energy storage, and grid modernization projects. Indigenous-owned projects are also encouraged.
- Companies engaged in renewable energy deployment
- Energy storage companies
- Grid modernization companies
- Indigenous-owned projects
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
Based on the grant context, there is no specific mention of ineligible company types for the grant.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program provides funding for eligible expenses related to renewable energy and grid modernization projects. Eligible expenses may include, but are not limited to:
- Onshore wind projects
- Solar photovoltaic installations
- Small hydro projects
- Biomass projects for heat and electricity generation
- Energy storage initiatives
- Grid modernization projects such as advanced distribution management systems and demand management
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The criteria include:
- Decrease greenhouse gas emissions from Canada’s electricity system
- Increase the number of electricity system assets contributing to system reliability
- Generate economic and social benefits, including job creation and equity
- Increase renewable energy capacity or grid accommodation of renewable energy
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The program is currently not accepting applications or proposals, indicating a pause in new project intake.
- Interested parties can subscribe to the SREPs distribution list by emailing sreps-erite@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca to receive future updates on funding opportunities.
- SREPs supports projects with a focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) as part of their commitments or plans.
- Indigenous ownership has significantly benefited from the program, with substantial funding allocated to such projects.
Apply to this program
Empowering Canada's Clean Energy Future
The Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREPs) is a strategic initiative aimed at fostering the deployment of renewable energy infrastructure across Canada. By supporting projects that enhance energy capacity and modernize the grid, SREPs is pivotal in driving Canada's transition to a net-zero electricity system.
Unveiling the Potential of the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program
The Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREPs) represents a cornerstone of Canada's strategy to build a cleaner, more sustainable energy framework. As a significant federal initiative, the program received an additional allocation of $2.9 billion in Budget 2023, underscoring the country’s commitment to decarbonizing its electricity infrastructure. Launched in 2021, SREPs is designed to support the broad deployment of clean energy projects, integrating technologies like wind turbines, solar panels, and energy storage solutions into the national grid.
Since its inception, the program has facilitated the approval of 71 deployment projects, which have the collective capacity to generate approximately 2,700 megawatts of renewable energy. This deployment contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by over 3.5 megatonnes of CO2 equivalent annually, a substantial step forward in achieving Canada's environmental targets. The scope of the program extends beyond merely generating clean energy; it includes 21 projects focused on energy storage and grid modernization, helping transition Canada towards a net-zero electricity system.
One of the noteworthy aspects of SREPs is its inclusive approach, particularly the emphasis on Indigenous participation. Out of the approved deployment projects, 43 feature Indigenous ownership, representing an investment of over $826 million and creating an estimated 15,800 job-years. This engagement ensures that Indigenous communities are integral in Canada's renewable energy landscape, contributing not only to economic development but also to the equitable transition of the energy sector.
The program's capacity-building component has also been impactful, with 71 projects approved, totaling over $102 million in funding. These projects aim to enhance the skills and abilities needed to operate and maintain a modernized electricity grid. By adopting an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) framework, SREPs ensures social responsibility within the projects it supports, fostering diverse participation and commitment towards community engagement goals.
Although the program is not currently accepting new applications or proposals, this is just a temporary phase as the groundwork is being laid for future funding opportunities. Interested parties are encouraged to join the program’s distribution list by contacting the designated email. This will ensure they receive timely updates about the program's status and upcoming investment rounds.
Building on the strengths of Canada's natural resources and technological advancements, the SREPs initiative is a testament to the country's dedication to leading in the global clean energy transition. As the program continues to evolve, it will remain crucial in positioning Canada as a leader in renewable energy, fostering economic growth, and ensuring environmental sustainability.
The transformative potential of the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program lies in its ability to harness diverse resources and expertise, making it a catalyst for not just energy transition but societal advancement. Through strategic funding and inclusive participation, this program lays the foundation for a resilient and sustainable energy future, deeply integrated into Canada's socioeconomic fabric.
