Electricity Retrofit Financial Incentives for Condominiums
By Armand Conant and Esther Chung
Some condominium corporations seeking energy-efficient upgrades may have the opportunity to do so through a provincial initiative called the “ BizEnergySaver” program. This program is delivered by the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO). Unlike many retrofit programs that require corporations to share a portion of their energy savings with service providers, BizEnergySaver offers upfront discounts with no ongoing revenue-sharing obligations.
What the Program Offers
Eligible buildings receive free on-site assessments and possible discounted installation of energy-efficient upgrades, including amongst other things, LED lighting in some cases, and adaptive lighting controls. The discount is applied at the point of sale, with the government covering the remaining portion of the purchase cost directly with the contractor.
Eligibility for Condominium Corporations
To participate, organizations must be non-residential customers of Toronto Hydro, Hydro Ottawa, or Hydro One and be located within designated program areas. The program extends to common elements and any non-residential units/spaces, meaning most condominium corporations would qualify to some degree.
BizEnergySaver applies differently depending on the type of buildings:
- For residential condominium buildings: common areas only
- For mixed residential condominium/commercial land: common elements and commercial components might qualify
- For shared facilities: parking garages, gyms, theatres, mechanical spaces, and other shared facility common areas may be eligible.
BizEnergySaver might provide certain condominium corporations with an opportunity for energy-saving upgrades without the typical obligation to share resulting cost savings. Corporations interested in the program should visit the BizEnergySaver’s website.