If your business is planning energy‑efficiency upgrades, the Save on Energy Retrofit Program can help cover a major share of your costs. This Ontario program supports commercial, industrial, and institutional retrofits that reduce electricity use and peak demand. Funding can cover up to 50% of eligible project costs, according to the latest program guidelines.
Below is a step‑by‑step guide to applying, based on current rules and FAQs. Be sure to check the official Save on Energy website for the most up‑to‑date information, as program details can change.
The Save on Energy Retrofit Program is an Ontario‑wide incentive program for businesses and institutions that want to improve energy efficiency in existing buildings and facilities. It is administered by Save on Energy, on behalf of the Government of Ontario.
Key program facts:
This program works best for medium to large retrofit projects where energy savings can be measured.
You can apply for the Save on Energy Retrofit Program if you own or lease an eligible facility in Ontario.
If you are a tenant, you must have written consent or authorization from the building owner to participate.
The program supports both prescriptive and custom energy‑efficiency upgrades. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to:
Projects must show clear and measurable reductions in electricity use to qualify for funding.
Applying takes careful planning and proper documentation. Short, clear steps make the process easier.
List the equipment or systems you plan to upgrade. Estimate how much electricity you expect to save. Many applicants work with an energy consultant at this stage.
Your project must be approved before installation begins. If you start early, your project may not qualify.
Applications go through Save on Energy. You will need:
After approval, finish the project as planned.
Provide documents that show your actual energy savings after installation. Funding depends on verified performance.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you check if the Save on Energy Retrofit Program—or similar provincial incentives—fit your facility type and project scope.
Retrofit work started before program approval is usually not eligible.
The Retrofit Program is an incentive (rebate), not a grant or loan. Plan your finances with this in mind.
Energy savings must be measured and verified. Missing technical data can delay or reduce your funding.
Leased facilities need written authorization from the building owner.
Q: Is the Save on Energy Retrofit Program a grant or a loan?
It is an incentive (rebate), not a grant or loan. Funding is given as a rebate after your project is finished and verified.
Q: How much funding can my business receive?
Funding can cover up to 50% of eligible project costs, depending on program rules and verified energy savings.
Q: Can tenants apply for the Retrofit Program?
Yes. Tenants can apply if they have owner consent or authorization to complete the retrofit.
Q: How are energy savings measured?
Savings must be sustainable, measurable, and verifiable. This is usually done using pre‑ and post‑installation energy data or approved engineering methods.
Q: Are Retrofit Program incentives taxable in Ontario?
In many cases, incentives may be considered taxable income. Ask your accountant for advice specific to your business.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and incentive programs across Canada—including energy, retrofit, and sustainability funding—so you can see which ones match your business profile before you apply.
If you want to plan an energy retrofit, first check if your project is eligible. Write down your expected electricity savings. Apply for the Save on Energy Retrofit Program before starting any work. Compare Ontario retrofit incentives and rebates using resources like GrantHub. Look for other programs that fit your project. Careful planning and timely application will help you get the most funding possible.
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