A Guide to Incentives for Businesses Adopting Energy-Saving Technologies and Sustainable Practices
Investing in energy efficiency is a strategic move for businesses aiming to reduce operational costs and minimize environmental impact. In Nova Scotia, several programs offer financial incentives to support businesses in implementing energy-saving technologies and sustainable practices. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of available programs and outlines the application processes to help businesses capitalize on these opportunities.
Overview of Energy Efficiency Incentive Programs in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia offers various programs to assist businesses in adopting energy-efficient technologies. These initiatives are designed to help businesses reduce energy consumption, lower utility costs, and contribute to environmental sustainability. Key programs include:
- Small Business Energy Solutions Program: Tailored for small businesses seeking to implement energy-efficient upgrades.
- Business Energy Rebates Program: Offers rebates for purchasing and installing energy-efficient equipment.
- Advancing Clean Technologies for Nova Scotia Program: Supports the adoption of clean technologies in the agricultural sector.
Small Business Energy Solutions Program
Eligibility:
- Open to small businesses with annual electrical usage under 600,000 kWh (approximately $6,000/month) for electric upgrades, or under 350,000 kWh for non-electric upgrades.
Benefits:
- Rebates: Financial incentives to offset the cost of energy-efficient equipment and upgrades.
- Financing: Interest-free financing options for qualifying electric-to-electric upgrades, subject to credit approval by Nova Scotia Power.
Application Process:
- Assessment: Utilize the Rebate Navigator tool to identify suitable energy-saving opportunities for your business.
- Application Submission: Complete and submit the application form available on the Efficiency Nova Scotia website.
- Implementation: Upon approval, proceed with the purchase and installation of the approved energy-efficient equipment.
- Rebate Claim: Submit proof of purchase and installation to receive the rebate.
- Business Energy Rebates Program
Eligibility:
- Available to businesses, non-profits, and institutional organizations undertaking energy-efficient retrofits or new construction projects.
Benefits:
- Rebates: Financial incentives for a wide range of energy-efficient products, including lighting, refrigeration, HVAC systems, and more.
Application Process:
- Pre-Approval: For projects expecting to receive over $15,000 in incentives or involving specific measures like IT and data center upgrades, pre-approval is required.
- Purchase and Installation: Acquire and install eligible energy-efficient equipment.
- Rebate Application: Submit the rebate application within 90 days of purchase, including all necessary documentation.
- Advancing Clean Technologies for Nova Scotia Program
Eligibility:
- Targeted at registered farms, agri-businesses, and agri-food processors with an annual eligible gross income of $10,000 or more.
Benefits:
- Funding Assistance: Up to 60% of project costs, to a maximum of $150,000, for projects that adopt clean technologies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency.
Application Process:
- Energy Assessment: Conduct an energy assessment through Efficiency Nova Scotia to identify potential projects.
- Application Submission: Complete the application form, including project proposals and quotes, and submit within the specified intake period.
- Approval and Implementation: Upon approval, implement the project as outlined.
- Claim Submission: Submit claims with supporting documentation by the specified deadline to receive funding.
Additional Resources
- Efficiency Nova Scotia: Offers various programs and resources to assist businesses in improving energy efficiency.
- Canada Greener Homes Grant: Provides grants to homeowners for energy-efficient retrofits; note that residents of Nova Scotia need to apply directly through their provincial programs.
By leveraging these programs, businesses in Nova Scotia can effectively reduce energy consumption, lower operational costs, and contribute to environmental sustainability. For detailed information and assistance, businesses are encouraged to contact Efficiency Nova Scotia or the relevant program administrators.