Efficient Solutions Program
Hydro-Québec support covers up to 90% of eligible equipment costs and up to $60,000 for energy analysis costs. This is a cost-share program, so you pay part of the cost yourself.
“The Efficient Solutions calculation tool (OSE) is a Windows‑based PC application that simplifies the process of calculating how much financial support you could receive and submitting an application in order to implement energy efficiency and demand response (DR) measures.”
From the official program page
Before you spend any money
Before you commit, ask Hydro-Québec when the support is paid. It may pay you back after the work is done rather than upfront.
At a glance
Subject to program rules, available funding, and approval. Confirm current details with the official program administrator.
Is this for you?
- You run a business in Québec and want to improve HVAC, lighting, or industrial equipment to lower your power bills.
- You need a professional energy audit to find savings opportunities and can claim up to $60,000 toward those analysis costs.
- You are a contractor or facility manager who wants to modernize building systems with financial support from Hydro-Québec.
Probably not the right fit if
- You operate outside of Québec, as this program is administered by Hydro-Québec for its service area only.
- You need immediate cash flow for non-energy-related expenses, as this funding is strictly for energy performance improvements and analysis.
- You do not want to submit a proposal: the program requires a formal request through the OSE tool or a customized application.
How much you'd realistically get
Up to 90% of eligible equipment costs for commercial and industrial projects, plus up to $60,000 for energy analysis costs.
What may be supported
- Installation of energy-efficient HVAC systems.
- Switching to LED lighting in commercial or industrial buildings.
- Professional energy audits and analysis.
- Installation of efficient industrial motors or controls.
- Agricultural equipment improvements for energy efficiency.
How applying works
Effort: moderateYou must calculate your project using the OSE tool or prepare a detailed proposal for complex projects, then submit the request to Hydro-Québec for approval.
- 01Download the OSE tool from the Hydro-Québec business website to calculate potential support.
- 02Prepare your energy analysis proposal form or equipment request using the Simplified or Customized Option as appropriate.
- 03Submit your request via the OSE tool or contact Hydro-Québec experts for guidance on complex projects.
- 04Wait for approval. Before you buy anything, ask Hydro-Québec whether they pay you back after the work or pay part of the cost upfront.
- 05Complete the installation or analysis and submit required documentation for reimbursement if applicable.
Who to ask: http://www.hydroquebec.com/contact-us/#business
Documents commonly required
- Energy analysis proposal form (for analysis projects).
- OSE tool calculation results (for equipment projects).
- Detailed project description for customized options.
- Proof of business operation in Québec.
What to know before you count on it
- The program is a cost-share: you pay the part of the costs that Hydro-Québec does not cover.
- The application process requires using the OSE tool or submitting a formal proposal, which may take time to prepare.
- The official page does not say whether the support is taxable income. Ask your accountant.
What are your odds?
Approval depends on the technical merit of your energy savings project and whether it meets Hydro-Québec standards. Approval is not automatic.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay for the equipment before I get the money?
The official page describes the support as a reimbursement, but it does not say when the money is paid. Ask Hydro-Québec before you buy equipment.
Is the $60,000 cap for the energy analysis per project or per year?
The official page lists up to $60,000 for eligible energy analysis costs but does not say whether this is per project or per year. Ask Hydro-Québec before you apply.
Can I use this for agricultural equipment?
Yes. The official page mentions support for agricultural equipment but does not list the amount. Ask Hydro-Québec before you apply.
More funding by what it pays for
What you can combine it with
This program may be combined with other Hydro-Québec initiatives like the Alliance for exemplary buildings or Dual energy programs, but confirm compatibility on the official page.
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Worth reading before you apply
Get alerted when this changes
Programs open and close, budgets run out, rules change. We send one short email when something changes that matters for this program.
Page last updated ; status and deadline checked . Source: official program page.