Capital project: Retrofit of existing municipal buildings

Overview of the Capital project: Retrofit of existing municipal buildings program:

The program provides financial assistance for retrofitting municipal buildings to achieve significant energy and emission reductions. Eligible retrofits may include upgrades to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, building insulation, windows, and lighting. Projects must demonstrate potential for measurable environmental benefits, such as reduced energy consumption and improved air quality. Applicants are encouraged to integrate sustainability practices like renewable energy generation and water conservation. Priority is given to retrofits that align with a municipality’s long-term environmental and economic strategies. The program emphasizes collaboration with equity-deserving groups and Indigenous communities, supporting projects that foster inclusivity, accessibility, and socio-economic benefits.

Benefits of the Capital project: Retrofit of existing municipal buildings program:

• Financial support for retrofitting municipal buildings to reduce energy consumption.
• Opportunities to integrate innovative technologies and renewable energy sources.
• Improved building performance and occupant comfort.
• Contribution to municipal climate action plans and GHG reduction targets.
• Enhanced equity and accessibility through inclusive project planning.

Eligibility criteria of the Capital project: Retrofit of existing municipal buildings program:

• Who Can Apply
• Municipal Governments:
• Any municipality in Canada, regardless of size, is eligible to apply. This includes large urban centers, mid-sized cities, small towns, and rural municipalities.
• Municipal Entities:
• Municipally owned corporations, such as utility companies or community housing organizations, are also eligible if they undertake projects on behalf of their respective municipalities.
• Non-Municipal Partners:
• Non-profit organizations, Indigenous communities, or other non-municipal organizations can apply if they partner with a municipal government. A formal agreement must outline the roles, responsibilities, and benefits for both parties.
• Project Eligibility
• Eligible projects must meet the following criteria:
• Focus on Existing Municipal Buildings:
• Projects must involve retrofitting existing municipal or municipally owned buildings. Examples include community centers, libraries, arenas, fire halls, or administrative buildings.
• Energy Efficiency Improvements:
• Eligible retrofits may include:
• HVAC upgrades
• Improved insulation and windows
• High-efficiency lighting systems
• Integration of renewable energy technologies, such as solar panels
• Environmental and Social Benefits:
• The project must demonstrate measurable environmental impacts, such as reductions in energy consumption, GHG emissions, or water usage.
• Social benefits, such as improved accessibility, occupant comfort, or community engagement, are strongly encouraged.
• Alignment with Municipal Plans:
• Projects should align with the municipalitys climate action, energy efficiency, or long-term sustainability plans.
• Innovation and Best Practices:
• Projects that incorporate innovative technologies or practices, such as advanced energy management systems or smart grid integration, will receive priority consideration.
• Ineligible projects include new building construction, projects already required by law, or retrofits not aligned with energy and emissions improvements.