Through the Office of Energy Efficiency, Natural Resources Canada provides a number of incentives for Canadian industrial companies. One of the most accessible programs offered by Natural Resources Canada is the ecoEnergy Efficiency for Industry Program.

In an effort to reduce the environment impact of industrial facilities, Natural Resources Canada offers cost-shared assistance of up to 50% of eligible costs (maximum $25,000) to companies who implement the CAN/CSA-ISO 50001 Energy Management Systems Standard. This standard is designed to guide companies towards improved energy performance by way of energy efficiency, use and consumption. Meeting requirements pertaining to measurement, documentation, reporting and practices are all part of the implementation process.

Support and guidance for applicants

The ecoEnergy Efficiency for Industry Program also supports companies that choose to implement the CAN/CSA-ISO 50001 and facilitates the exchange of best-practices throughout the sector. In addition to supporting the early implementation of the Energy Management Systems Standard, the program supports the Canadian Industry Program for Energy Conservation (CIPEC). The CIPEC helps businesses cut costs, increase energy efficiency and reduce industrial greenhouse gases by offering members access to cost-shared assistance, networking opportunities, energy management workshops and toolkits, technical information and calculators, newsletters and more.

Dollars to $ense Energy Management Workshops are also provided by the NRC free of charge. Workshop topics include: Energy Management Information Systems; Recommissioning; Energy Management Planning; Spot the Energy Savings Opportunities; Energy Monitoring; Energy Efficiency Financing. These workshops aim to help your business lower operating and production costs; improve your competition position; reduce greenhouse gas emissions; increase operational efficiency; and create a better work environment. Finally, the NRC provides newsletter, reports, guides and manuals in order to increase awareness of industrial energy efficiency.

What is the application process?

In order to apply for financial assistance, you must firstly ensure that your business meets all eligibility requirements. Eligible businesses must meet the following criteria:

  • Be registered with Natural Resources Canada as an CIPEC leader
  • Have submitted and have had your proposal approved by Natural Resources Canada
  • Acquired the support and commitment of senior management
  • Solidified the participation of employees and consultants with experience in energy management standards
  • Committed to monitoring and reporting on results
  • Be prepared to undertake ineligible costs including equipment purchases and capital projects. Eligible costs include the development of an energy baseline; an energy use assessment; energy performance monitoring and reporting; professional fees; and training.

Once you have submitted your proposal and determined your eligibility, your business must arrange for a contractor to perform the pilot. You must then submit a claim with supporting documents to NRCan within 3 months of the project end date. Once Natural Resources Canada has reviewed and approved the claim and final report, you will receive a reimbursement cheque.

Questions or comments about the ecoEnergy Efficiency for Industry Program? Share them below! Interested in finding out how you can further reduce your energy costs? Check out these great rebates and incentives!

image credit: Brandon Godfrey