Last month, OCOBIA and Hydro Ottawa co-hosted an information session for business and commercial property owners focused on Save on Energy incentives and the Ottawa Retrofit Accelerator (ORA) program.
If you weren’t able to attend, the Zoom recording and presentation materials are now available for review.
What Was Covered
Hydro Ottawa’s Energy Conservation Team provided an overview of incentive programs available to businesses of all sizes, including:
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Lighting upgrades (bulbs, fixtures, controls)
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HVAC improvements
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Variable frequency drives (VFDs)
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Solar incentives
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Recommissioning and retro-commissioning
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Energy management and training programs
Depending on the project type, incentives can cover up to 100% of eligible project costs
For heating and cooling projects, coverage can reach up to 50%
The team also emphasized the importance of applying before committing to costs, as funding is limited and reimbursement occurs once applications are approved and closed
Ottawa Retrofit Accelerator (ORA)
In addition to Save on Energy incentives, Hydro Ottawa presented the Ottawa Retrofit Accelerator, a 3-year, $10M program funded by NRCan to support building decarbonization
Eligible commercial, institutional, and multi-unit residential buildings within Hydro Ottawa’s service territory may receive:
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Funding covering up to 75% (and in some cases 90%) of energy and carbon pathway studies, to a maximum of $50,000 per building
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Technical feasibility studies and engineering support
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Advisory services throughout the retrofit process
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Subsidized certifications and training (ORA covers 75% of course costs)
The program runs through March 31, 2027, with core support activities continuing until project completion
Next Steps for Businesses
Hydro Ottawa encourages businesses to:
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Book a free consultation
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Apply early, as funding may be limited
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Identify an internal project lead
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Avoid committing to contracts before submitting applications
For full program details and applications, visit:
👉 https://hydroottawa.com/en/save-energy/save-energy-businesses/programs-and-incentives-businesses
Access the Resources
If you are considering equipment upgrades, lighting improvements, HVAC replacements, or decarbonization planning, these programs may significantly reduce your capital costs while lowering long-term energy expenses.
We encourage members to explore what’s available and connect with Hydro Ottawa’s energy advisors to determine eligibility.