If you’re planning an energy efficiency or industrial emissions project in Québec, ÉcoPerformance can cover a large share of your costs. But figuring out if your project qualifies can be tricky—especially under ÉcoPerformance — Simplified Implementation, which uses pre-approved measures instead of custom project modelling. This guide breaks ÉcoPerformance eligibility into simple steps so you can quickly check if your energy or industrial project qualifies and avoid common mistakes.
ÉcoPerformance is a Québec government program that supports projects that reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Projects can focus on energy efficiency, energy conversion, or reducing fugitive emissions. The program is managed by the Ministère de l’Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP).
There are two main funding streams:
This article focuses on ÉcoPerformance eligibility for Simplified Implementation but will highlight when rules are different for large industrial projects.
Your project must meet all of the conditions below to qualify under the simplified stream.
ÉcoPerformance eligibility starts with your project’s focus. Simplified Implementation supports:
These must fit within the targeted sectors and systems listed by the program.
If your project is experimental, highly customized, or not on the list of predefined measures, you might have to apply under the large industrial project stream instead.
To be eligible for ÉcoPerformance:
This requirement applies to both Simplified Implementation and large industrial projects.
For Simplified Implementation, you can apply if you are:
For large industrial projects, the rules are stricter. You must:
Even if your project type qualifies, ÉcoPerformance eligibility also depends on your project costs. Eligible costs usually include:
Costs that are not related to GHG reductions, routine maintenance, or normal business operations are usually not eligible.
You can use tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher to quickly filter programs by province, sector, and project type before spending time on estimates.
Knowing the funding limits helps you decide if ÉcoPerformance is a fit for your project’s size and type.
If your project is smaller or uses standard technologies, Simplified Implementation is usually the faster and simpler option.
Applying for ÉcoPerformance means following a few key steps:
Be sure to check deadlines and any rules for your sector. If your project is more complex or falls under the large industrial stream, you must provide a detailed analysis and may need to join the cap-and-trade system.
Many businesses use tools like GrantHub’s program matcher to compare ÉcoPerformance with other grants and find out about overlapping funding opportunities.
Assuming all energy projects qualify
ÉcoPerformance only supports projects on its list of targeted measures. General upgrades or maintenance are not eligible.
Mixing up the two ÉcoPerformance streams
If you apply under Simplified Implementation for a complex or custom project, your application may be delayed or rejected.
Ignoring applicant eligibility rules
Large industrial projects require SPEDE participation. Some businesses find this out too late.
Including ineligible costs in your budget
Listing costs that don’t qualify can lower your funding or trigger extra review.
Q: Is ÉcoPerformance only for large industrial companies?
No. The Simplified Implementation stream supports smaller, standard energy efficiency and conversion projects. Large industrial projects have their own, stricter rules.
Q: Do I need to be part of the cap-and-trade (SPEDE) system?
Only for large industrial projects. Simplified Implementation does not usually require SPEDE participation.
Q: Can ÉcoPerformance funding be combined with other grants?
Sometimes, yes. Public funding stacking rules apply, and total assistance cannot go over program limits.
Q: Is ÉcoPerformance funding taxable?
Funding is usually considered government assistance and may affect your taxable income or capital cost calculations. Check with your accountant.
Q: What if my project doesn’t fit the predefined measures?
You may need to apply through the large industrial project stream or look at other Québec energy programs.
If your project meets ÉcoPerformance eligibility under Simplified Implementation, your next step is to confirm the exact measure and funding amount that applies to your system. GrantHub lets you compare ÉcoPerformance with other Québec and federal energy programs, so you can see all your options before applying.
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