Decarbonization Incentive Program: Application form walkthrough

The following instructions, which mirror the structure of the online form for the Decarbonization Incentive Program (hereafter “the program”), will assist applicants in completing sections that require more explanation. Applicants are able to edit applications prior to submission as Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) will only see the formal application once it has been submitted. All questions must be answered completely and accurately for the application to be considered. Failure to follow these instructions carefully may result in the project being rejected. 

Project Title (Mandatory)

Enter the title of the project for the application

1. Applicant and Facility Information

The following questions are designed to capture critical applicant contact and facility information. Applicants are responsible for updating this information and providing additional details, if required.  Applicants must operate or have a controlling ownership stake in the eligible facility where the project is occurring. For more information, please consult the Applicant Guide.

1.1 Applicant Information

1.1.1 Applicant: Full legal name of organization (Mandatory)

Enter the full legal name of the organization. If the operational name is different than the legal name, please include the operational name in application question 1.4.1. If selected for funding, the applicant will be the recipient under the Program and the one to sign a contribution agreement with ECCC.

1.1.2 Applicant: Organization type (Mandatory)

Select the appropriate organization type from the drop-down list in accordance with the definitions below:

Public sector body or board: Public sector bodies or boards that are established by or under provincial or territorial statute or by regulation or are wholly owned by a province, territory or local or regional government in Canada.

Not-for-profit: Canadian not-for-profit organizations, such as provincial and territorial municipal associations, professional and industry associations, and educational institutions in partnership with a provincial or municipal government.

Private sector for-profit small, medium or large business: Canadian for-profit organizations with established businesses in Canada.

1.1.3 Organizational website (Optional)

If applicable – Enter the full website URL of the lead organization for the application process.

1.1.4 Language of choice for correspondence (Mandatory)

Choose if you would prefer to be contacted in English or French.

1.2 Primary Contact Info

1.2 Primary Contact (Mandatory)

Provide the contact information of the primary person responsible for this application, who ECCC would contact for notifications and/or follow-up questions regarding this application.

1.3 Secondary Contact Info

1.3 Secondary Contact (Mandatory)

Provide the contact information of the primary person responsible for this application, who ECCC would contact for notifications and/or follow-up questions regarding this application.

1.4 Covered Facility Information

1.4.1 Covered Facility Name (Mandatory)

Enter the name of the covered facility that is registered and regulated under the federal Output-Based Pricing System (OBPS).

1.4.2 Covered Facility Address (Mandatory)

Enter the address of the covered facility.

1.4.3 Covered Facility Location (Mandatory)

Enter the GPS coordinates including longitude and latitude of the covered facility. Latitude and longitude coordinates must follow the first format below:

(45.421500, -75.697200) OK

(45.421500, 75.697200W) Not Accepted

(45°25'’17'’'’N, 75°41'’49'’'’W) Not Accepted

1.4.4 Covered Facility OBPS certificate  number (Mandatory)

Enter your most recent OBPS certificate number (XX-1234-56) for the covered facility implicated under the OBPS. If you are unsure of your OBPS certificate number, please contact the OBPS Operations Office at stfr-obps@ec.gc.ca

1.4.5 Name of the person responsible for the facility under Section 171 of the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act (Mandatory)

Enter the name of the person responsible for the covered facility. Under the OBPS Regulations, the person responsible for a covered facility is the person who owns or is otherwise responsible for the covered facility, including the person who has the charge, management or control of the covered facility, or who is the true decision maker with respect to the operations of the covered facility. There can be more than one responsible person. The name of the responsible person can be found in the facility’s OBPS registration.

1.4.6 Covered Facility GHG Reporting Program – GHG ID (Mandatory)

Enter the alpha-numeric GHG reporting ID for the covered facility, provided under the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program.

See the following link for a list of codes: About the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program.

1.5 Sector Specific Questions

1.5.1 Covered Facility NAICS code (primary) (Mandatory)

Enter the 6-digit North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for the business.

See the following link for a list of codes: NAICS Classification search tools

Questions 1.5.2 to 1.5.3 apply and are mandatory for goods-producing organizations (identified by NAICS code selected).

1.5.2 Does the covered facility, or any of its cross-owned affiliates, produce softwood lumber?

Please consider selecting ‘yes’ if the applicant organization that owns and/or operates the covered facility produces softwood lumber at that facility or a different facility in Canada, or if the applicant organization that owns and/or operates the covered facility also cross-owns a company that produces softwood lumber. Consider selecting ‘no’ if the applicant organization that owns and/or operates the covered facility has no connection to softwood lumber production.

1.5.2a Please provide a general description of the type of products that are being produced at the covered facility (Mandatory if applicable)

Please list the general categories of products that are being produced at the covered facility. For example, petroleum and coal products, non-metallic mineral, pharmaceutical and medicine products. Please clarify if and how the proposed project relates to the production of any of these products. 

1.5.3 What is the expected annual revenue generation for these products from your Canadian operations next year (e.g. 2024 or your organization’s next fiscal year)?

Answer cannot be zero-value. Expected annual revenue generation from your Canadian operations can be based on total annual revenues from previous years (e.g. average of revenues in the last 5 years). Annual revenues can be a total of revenues generated from one or multiple types of goods produced at the covered facility.

2. Project Information

The following questions are designed to gather detailed information related to your project, including key activities, type of technologies and/or processes, and expected project outcomes. For more information, please consult the Applicant Guide.

2.1 Project Summary (Mandatory)

Provide a concise summary of your proposed project. Briefly describe what technologies or processes are being changed and/or deployed and how they will reduce GHG emissions (e.g. equipment retrofits for efficient improvements, replacement equipment for fuel switching, or process changes to reduce energy consumption). Please ensure this overview contains only non-confidential information (maximum of 500 characters including spaces).

2.2 Project Location

Is the project proposed at the address of the Covered facility noted in 1.4?

Select ”yes” if the project is located at the address noted in Section 1.4.

Select “no” if the project is not located at the address noted in Section 1.4

If no – in question 2.2.1 and 2.2.2 enter the project location.

2.2.1 Project Location: Site Address (Mandatory if applicable)

Enter the address of the project.

2.2.2 Project Location: Site Latitude and Longitude (Mandatory if applicable)

Enter the GPS coordinates including longitude and latitude of the project. Latitude and longitude coordinates must follow the first format below:

(45.421500, -75.697200) OK

(45.421500, 75.697200W) Not Accepted

(45°25'’17'’'’N, 75°41'’49'’'’W) Not Accepted

2.3 Comprehensive description of the project.  (Mandatory)

Please do not repeat your project work plan. Provide a detailed overview of the proposed project, focusing on the equipment, technologies, and processes that will change. Clearly state project objectives and the rationale for the project, how it aligns with the objectives of this program, and how it would contribute to GHG emissions reductions. The scope of your project should be clear in this description and only include activities for which you are seeking funding and that are necessary for the successful completion of the project. You may provide general context on how the project fits into your organization’s overall activities, structure, or net-zero plan, but please ensure this is distinct from the description of the project itself (maximum 4000 characters including spaces).

2.4 Activity Types (Mandatory)

Select all the activity types that best describe the project from the checkbox list. See Annex A of the Applicant Guide for definitions of each activity type for additional information.

• Stationary equipment retrofits for energy efficiency
• Stationary equipment retrofits for fuel switching
• Mobile equipment retrofits for energy efficiency
• Mobile equipment retrofits for fuel switching
• Building envelope upgrades (insulation, windows, doors)
• Clean electricity production for own use
• Low-carbon fuel production for own use
• Cogeneration or combined heat and power production
• Heat Recovery
• District energy and/or heating
• Industrial process changes
• Organics diversion
• Industrial product use changes
• Carbon capture and storage
• Carbon capture and utilization

If activity type is other – describe the activity type in question 2.3a.

3. Other Project Eligibility Criteria

The following questions are designed to help determine whether the proposed project meets the program’s additional project eligibility criteria related to technology readiness level, GHG reductions, and project scope. Note that certain project activities are ineligible for funding under the program.  For more information, please consult  the Applicant Guide.

3.1 Technology Readiness Level (TRL): Select the technology readiness level of the technology being implemented in the project. (Mandatory)

Select the TRL that corresponds to the technology being implemented in the project from the drop-down list, ranging from TRL 1 to TRL 9 and commercially available. If the technology is currently at one level but this project represents the next level (e.g. a demonstration project exists, and this will be the first full implementation of the system), please select the next level (i.e. what TRL this project will represent). If the technology is commercially available, select “Commercially available”.

See the following link to assess Technology Readiness Level: Technology Readiness Level (TRL) Assessment Tool.

Please note that the program will only fund projects using technologies at the TRL scale of level 8 or above. If TRL level is less than 8 – in question 3.1a, describe the technology that is not commercially available and why it is essential to the completion of the project (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces).

3.2 Demonstration and Pilot Activities:  Could the project or any activity in the project be considered a pilot or demonstration activity such that, depending on operational results, the activity could cease operating prior to 2030?  (Mandatory)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether there are any activities in the project that may be interpreted as  demonstration and pilot activities. Please note that demonstration and pilot activities are ineligible for program funding.

If yes – in question 3.2a,  explain how long the project activities are guaranteed to operate, if the project equipment is replacing existing equipment, and what would result in the project’s termination. Note that all project activities must lead to material GHG reductions in the year 2030 (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces).

3.3 Capacity Building: Does the project include any training, educational or capacity building activities? (Mandatory)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether this project will include training, educational, or capacity building elements.  Please note that standalone educational or capacity building projects are ineligible for program funding.

If yes – in question 3.3a, describe these activities and why they are necessary for the completion and/or operation of this project (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces).

3.4 Implementation Readiness:  Are you completing or will be performing any prospective studies or tests (e.g., feasibility study, appraisal well for carbon storage, etc.) whose results will inform the decision of whether to go forward with the project? (Mandatory)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether you are completing or will be performing any prospective studies or tests (e.g., feasibility study, appraisal well etc.) whose results will inform the decision of whether to go forward with the project.  Please note that projects that are not ready to be implemented and rely on prospective studies or tests (e.g., feasibility studies, Preliminary Front End Engineering Design (Pre-FEED), drilling appraisal well for carbon storage) are generally ineligible for program funding, as such studies must be completed before the application is submitted. In addition, a project cannot be or include a standalone engineering study. The scope of the project must include concrete actions that will lead to measurable GHG reductions.

If yes – in question 3.4a, detail the scope of work that has to be completed and how it informs whether the project will be implemented. Provide a timeline of this work and when you expect the results (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces).

3.5 Regulatory Compliance: Could this project be interpreted as satisfying existing standards or regulations for energy, GHG emissions, or air pollution performance requirements? Activities that reduce OBPS compliance obligations and/or generate surplus credits are expected and eligible. (Mandatory)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether this project could be interpreted as required to satisfy existing standards or regulations (e.g., O&G provincial and/or federal methane regulations). Please note that if the project is required to be implemented to meet standards or regulations (with the exception of OPBS) it is ineligible for program funding.

If yes – in question 3.5a, describe the regulatory/industrial standards and how the project is not specifically required to be implemented by these regulations or standards. If the project will exceed requirements stipulated in the standard, describe the benchmark and how the project exceeds it. (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces).

3.6 Projects at Planned Expansions: Will the project avoid GHG emissions at planned expansions of the OBPS facility without also reducing from any existing sources?

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate if the project is an avoided emissions project. Avoided emissions projects do not reduce emissions from any existing sources but by implementing low to zero emitting activities instead of planned activities, the project avoids the emission source from existing and persisting over the lifetime of the project.

If yes, in questions

3.6a – Expansion Details and Timeline: Describe the expansion that is planned or occurring at the facility and explain how the project is related. Ensure you describe the project’s role in the overall expansion initiative. Include in your response the completion date of the expansion and ensure it aligns with the implementation timeline of the project specified in the application form, work breakdown structure (WBS) and GHG workbooks. For instance, if procurement and installation of the zero emitting equipment takes 12 months to complete but the overall expansion that this project supports will be completed in 28 months, the project implementation timeline should reflect the larger expansion completion date as emissions that the project avoids will only be realized after the expanded facility is operational (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces).

3.6b – Justification of the Baseline Scenario: Explain why program funding is required to implement this project. As the project is likely essential for the expansion to be considered complete and operational, explain why, in the absence of DIP funding, the baseline activities are the only measures that would have been implemented (e.g., you can compare the financial feasibility of implementing the baseline activities over the project). Compare the benefits of the project over what was planned for the expansion. These can be GHG and/or non GHG benefits (for e.g., chosen equipment is considered the best available for the relevant sector or process, significant improvement to energy efficient than what was planned or reduces facility shutdown time required for maintenance etc.). In this section, you may enhance your response and include why you are seeking program funding in spite of all these benefits. (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces).

3.6c – Baseline GHG emissions: For the project to result in 2030 GHG reductions and be considered material justify the existence of the emission sources in the baseline scenario – i.e., describe how confident or certain you are that the emission sources that the project avoids (i.e., emissions in the baseline scenario) would have existed in the future and contributed to Canada’s domestic emissions.  (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces).

3.7 Electricity or Fuel Production (Own-use): Will the project involve the generation of electricity or production of low-carbon fuels? (Mandatory)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether this project will include the generation of electricity or production of low-carbon fuels.

If yes – in question 3.7a, describe how the project satisfies the “own-use” requirement as well as details regarding estimated energy/fuel to be produced by the project and the percentage to be used within the applicant’s own operations. Answers should be separate for distinct generation assets (e.g. a solar PV system vs a natural gas turbine) but can be combined for sets of similar assets (e.g. three natural gas turbines). Describe the type of energy produced by each asset in the project. For each asset, provide the estimated percentage of electricity or fuel produced that will be used within the facility’s operations. If electricity is produced, describe the site of generation and consumption  (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces). Please see Section 3.5.5 of the Applicant Guide for further information.

3.8 Project Implementation: Is the project already being implemented or will you commence implementation prior to receiving a decision on the application? (Mandatory)

Select “yes” if this project is already being implemented or if work will commence prior to receiving a funding decision. Otherwise select “no”. If you have begun implementation of the project such as purchased key capital assets, commenced construction etc. It is an indication that the project is already underway and hence ineligible. Early conceptual planning for project implementation would not be an indicator that the project is already underway as we expect applicants would have undertaken some work to plan out the project, develop cost estimates, identify risks etc. and even to support the information in this application. Projects must result in incremental GHG reductions and as the project is already being implemented it does not result in additional GHG reductions for the program.  

If yes – in question 3.8a, summarize the scope of work that has begun, is being implemented or will be implemented before a decision on your application is made. This information will be used to assess whether your project is incremental. If these project expenditures have been incurred, they are not eligible expenses and will not be reimbursed. All expenditures incurred prior to notification of approval-in-principle or after the project’s end date (no later than March 31, 2028) are ineligible for funding (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces).

3.9 Facility Operation: Are you implementing the project or project activities because the existing equipment/process has reached end of life or has to be replaced due to maintenance? (Mandatory)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether you are implementing the project or project activities because the existing equipment/process has reached end of life or has to be replaced due to maintenance. If the project is a like for like substitution of what you would have purchased to replace the failed equipment, it may not eligible for funding but if the project is an improvement over what you would have purchased, it may be eligible.  

If yes – in question 3.9a demonstrate how the project or project activities represents significant improvements over an appropriate baseline. The baseline in this case is what you would have implemented to replace the inoperable equipment if program funding was not available. (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces).

4. Project GHG Outcomes, Energy Outcomes and Net Zero by 2050

The following questions are designed to capture GHG emissions reductions, energy savings and net zero compatibility of the proposed project. The values entered for questions 4.1 to 4.4 must align with the values in Section 4.2 of the Emissions Reductions Tab of the GHG Workbook for this project. For more information, please consult the Applicant Guide and the GHG Estimation Guide for Projects: GHG accounting guidance for applicants to ECCC’s climate change mitigation programs (the “GHG Estimation Guide for Projects”) available for download along with the GHG Workbook in the Program Information Management System (PIMS).  

4.1 2030 GHG Emissions Reductions: Total estimated annual domestic GHG emission reductions in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (t CO2e) in the year 2030: (Mandatory)

Enter the estimated annual GHG emissions reductions in the year 2030 based on calculation provided in Section 4.2 in the Emissions Reductions tab of the GHG Workbook. Please consult the GHG Estimation Guide for Projects for additional information on how to estimate the GHG emissions reductions.

4.2 Cumulative to 2050 GHG Emissions Reductions: Total estimated cumulative GHG reductions in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (t CO2e) over the lifetime of the project (to 2050) (Mandatory)

Enter the estimated cumulative GHG emissions reductions up to the year 2050 based on calculation provided in Section 4.2 in the Emissions Reductions tab of the GHG Workbook. Please consult the GHG Estimation Guide for Projects for additional information on how to estimate the GHG emissions reductions.

4.3 2030 Energy Savings: Total estimated annual energy savings in the year 2030 in gigajoules (GJ). If energy use increases, enter a negative value. (Mandatory)

Enter the estimated annual energy savings in 2030 (in gigajoules) based on the calculation provided in Section 4.2 in the Emissions Reductions tab of the GHG Workbook. If your project has a net increase in energy, enter the value as a negative as it appears in Section 4.2. If your project does not have a net increase or decrease in energy, enter 0. Please consult the GHG Estimation Guide for Projects for additional information on how to estimate energy savings.

4.4 Cumulative to 2050 Energy Savings: If applicable, total estimated cumulative energy savings in gigajoules (GJ) over the lifetime of the project. (Mandatory)

Enter the estimated cumulative energy savings up to the year 2050 (in gigajoules) based on the calculation provided in Section 4.2 in the Emissions Reductions tab of the GHG Workbook. If your project has a net increase in energy, enter the value as a negative as it appears in Section 4.2. If your project does not have a net increase or decrease in energy, enter 0. Please consult the GHG Estimation Guide for Projects for additional information on how to estimate energy savings.

4.5 Net-Zero Compatibility

The following questions are designed to understand the degree of a project’s alignment with the goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, specifically the role of the proposal in a long-term decarbonization pathway for the facility. For more information, please consult the Applicant Guide

4.5a Degree of Decarbonization: Describe the degree of decarbonization targeted by the project. Quantify the degree of decarbonization as a percentage of a described scope or, if not feasible, qualitatively describe the extent of decarbonization and/or compare expected degree of decarbonization to sectoral or other performance benchmarks.

Describe the likely degree or percentage of decarbonization achieved by the project, for the scope of emissions it aims to reduce. To achieve this, applicants should quantify (i.e., as a percentage) or provide a qualitative description of the degree of decarbonization relative to a baseline. Clearly identify sources of emissions that the project will address and note major sources that the project will not address (if applicable). For example, fuel switching from natural gas to low-emitting grid electricity to operate the equipment would represent complete decarbonization of that source of emissions, even though the project’s impact on the facility’s overall annual emissions may be minor.

If applicable, you may also choose to describe or quantify the decarbonization of a particular process, the facility, or organization as a result of the project. Note if the project is expected to fully decarbonize a particular process or area of operations for the facility.

If a quantitative estimate is not possible, then briefly describe why this is the case, and qualitatively describe the degree of decarbonization expected to be achieved by this project. If applicable, compare the expected degree of decarbonization to sectoral or other performance benchmarks. For example, this could include an estimate of the expected change in the GHG intensity of a product(s) produced by the facility.

(Maximum of 2500 characters including spaces)

Note that you can utilize estimates calculated in the GHG WB in your response.

4.5b Enabling Steps to Net-Zero 2050 and Net Zero Plans: Describe how the project will contribute to the organization reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. If applicable (e.g., the project leads to partial decarbonization), describe how the project will be an enabling step on a pathway to net-zero that will enable future decarbonization for the relevant scope of emissions. If available, reference any relevant net-zero plans or analyses supporting this path.

Describe whether the proposal will enable further decarbonization – beyond that which is expected to be achieved by the project itself. Outline how the project will directly or indirectly enable further decarbonization and how the project supports the organization reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. For example, the project is an enabling step on a pathway to net-zero emissions for the facility, or enables additional technologies to be compatible with your operations.

If applicable, describe links between the project and any overarching net-zero or climate mitigation plan. If describing a public plan or strategy, refer to specific sections if applicable.

(Maximum of 2500 characters including spaces)

Note; if a net-zero plan or other relevant analysis such as a capital investment plan exists it is strongly encouraged that it be submitted as a supplemental document.

4.5c Carbon Lock-in and Stranded Asset: Is it possible that the project will lock-in technologies or equipment that will emit greenhouse gases in the long term? Outline the risk of carbon lock-in or the stranding of assets.

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate if the project will lock-in technologies or equipment that will emit greenhouse gases in the long term.  Carbon lock-in is defined as a set of technologies, institutions, and norms that are inconsistent or incompatible with a low-carbon future and limits progress toward the goal of net-zero emissions. Stranded assets are defined as assets that suffer from unanticipated or premature financial write-offs or downward financial revaluations, or that are converted to liabilities, as the result of a low-carbon transition or other environment-related risks.

If “yes” – in question 4.5c, describe the emission sources that will persist because of the project, within its boundary (e.g., emission sources from the use of the project equipment) and outside the boundary of the project (e.g., emission sources from other equipment/processes that rely on project equipment). Describe the extent to which specific components of this project, such as new equipment, are linked to GHG emissions/emitting processes that are part of your entire operations.

Describe whether the project will create any barriers to further decarbonization by increasing the cost or difficulty of subsequent retrofits. If the project hinders decarbonization, describe mitigation measures for how you will minimize the impact of carbon lock-in or stranded assets. For example, a project may implement heat recovery at an industrial facility. This project may represent carbon lock-in as it will be integrated into current fossil fuel-powered boilers. However, this may be mitigated by the expected lifespan of the existing boilers (e.g., 15 years) and/or by the possibility that the heat recovery equipment could be integrated with a new low-carbon source of heat production.

(Maximum of 2500 characters including spaces)

4.5d Best Available Technologies and Practices: Provide justification for the selection of the technologies and practices that will be implemented for the project. Discuss alternatives that were considered.

Describe how the project represents the best alternative of those currently available. Provide a rationale for the selection of technologies and processes that will be implemented by this project. For example, describe if the chosen technologies or practices are considered to be among the best available for the relevant sector or process, i.e., the only operationally or economically viable option to address the targeted source(s) of emissions.

If there are other options for addressing the source(s) of emissions targeted by the project, describe these other options and explain why they were not selected (e.g., not commercially ready, unsuited to a particular operational context, prohibitive cost).  

(Maximum of 2500 characters including spaces)

4.5e Scope 3 Emissions: Is this project likely to have significant Scope 3 (e.g., upstream or downstream) emissions impacts (significant meaning similar in magnitude to the estimated Scope 1 and 2 emissions reductions). 

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether this project is likely to have significant Scope 3 (e.g., upstream or downstream) emissions impact? Significant meaning similar in magnitude to the estimated Scope 1 and 2 emission reductions.

If yes – in question 4.5e describe the direction (i.e., increase or decrease in emissions) overall. List the sources of emissions and estimate, as much as feasible, the magnitude of these Scope 3 emissions increases or decreases for each source. Note that the information requested is only expected to enable a qualitative estimate of the relative magnitude and direction of Scope 3 emissions and ECCC will not carry out a lifecycle assessment of the project’s Scope 3 emissions

 (Maximum of 2500 characters including spaces)

5. Other Project Benefits

Please check each co-benefit that applies and provide the requested explanation. You may attach supplementary documentation in Section 9 of the application form. However, please ensure the explanation provided in this form is comprehensive, as supplementary material may not be reviewed in detail. For more information, please consult the Applicant Guide.

5.1 Co-Benefits

5.1.1 Does the project involve or create partnerships with clean growth firms, industry organizations or researchers? (Optional)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether this project involves a partnership with clean growth firms, industry organizations or researchers.

If yes – in question 5.1.1a, describe how the organization will be involved in the project or how the project will create such partnerships. Describe any significant collaborations with external partners, such as co-design, co-development, co-implementation. Consider describing any collaborations with Canadian Post-Secondary institutions, industry organizations, research networks, etc. If applicable, include Letters of Intent (LOI), Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) etc. to confirm their collaboration (maximum of 2500 characters including spaces).

5.1.2 Does the project involve or promote innovative and/or industry-leading practices or environmental practices? (Optional)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether this project promotes innovative and/or industry-leading technologies or environmental practices.

If yes – in question 5.1.2a, describe what technologies or environmental practices involved in the project are considered innovative and/or industry-leading and how the project will promote them (e.g., the project will guide the sector towards a low carbon economy and influence similar projects to be undertaken in Canada in the future). Provide specific examples of potential for replication, improvement, or further learning and innovation that may arise at the organization’s operations, in Canada or globally, or in this or other industries, as a result of this project (e.g., the successful completion of the project could lead to it being repeated at other facilities operated by the applicant). If applicable, provide supplemental documentation.

(Maximum of 2500 characters including spaces)

5.1.3 Will the project support indigenous communities or organizations as climate leaders?  (Optional)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether this project will  support indigenous communities or organizations as climate leaders.

If yes –  in question 5.1.3a,  Identify the Indigenous communities or organizations involved in the proposal and the status of their participation. Provide any documentation that describes the project partnership terms (i.e., Memorandums of Understanding (MOU’s), Band Council Resolutions (BCR’s), contracts, other legal documentation of partnership terms, communication plans, etc.). Describe how the proposal will promote Indigenous climate leadership. For example, the project may involve Indigenous co-development to delivery clean technology , promote collaboration across multiple indigenous organizations, or create other positive impacts related to climate leadership such as involving skill development for Indigenous communities. Ensure to describe the the role and impact on the Indigenous community/partner and how their participation is central to the development and implementation of the project  (maximum of 2500 characters including spaces).

5.1.4 Does the project have other environmental benefits, not including GHG emissions reduction benefits? (Optional)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether this project provides environmental benefits not related to GHG emissions reductions.

If yes – in question 5.1.4a, describe the environmental benefits and how the project would achieve these outcomes. Please note that GHG emissions reductions are not assessed under this co-benefit and should not be repeated here (maximum of 2500 characters including spaces).

For example:

• The project will improve local air quality and/or lead to a reduction of air pollution (other than GHGs) by reducing pollutants classified as criteria air contaminants (e.g., nitrogen oxide, particulate matter). Describe the air pollutant(s) being reduced, how your project will reduce them, and provide estimates of both the level of reductions and the percentage reductions for your overall facility or operation’s emissions to illustrate significance. If possible, provide the National Pollutant Release Inventory ID for your facility for reference. If applicable, provide supplemental documentation.
• The project will improve waste and/or resource management (e.g., the project results in less waste sent to landfills, reuse of any by-products that would otherwise be wasted, optimize/reduce use of water, reduced maintenance frequency or redundancy). Describe in detail which specific resources will be improved and/or reduced, as well as how they will be improved and/or reduced. If applicable, provide supplemental documentation (e.g. waste management plans, sustainability plans, etc.).

5.1.5 Does the project have benefits to health and safety? (Optional)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether this project provides increased productivity or health and safety benefits.

If yes – in question 5.1.5a, describe the health and safety benefits and how the project would achieve these outcomes (maximum of 2500 characters including spaces).

For example:

• The project will improve the health and safety of the workplace environment by positively impacting indoor conditions, temperature, or odors (e.g. noise level, indoor air quality, repetitive motion). Describe which measures will improve the health and safety of the workplace environment, as well as how and to what degree the measures will positively impact indoor conditions. If applicable, provide the strategy via supplemental documentation.

6. Project Dates, Expenditures and Funding

The following questions are designed to capture project timelines, associated expenditures and sources of funding. Applicants are responsible for updating this information and providing additional details, if requested. Information provided must match what was entered in the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and Budget Workbook. For more information, please consult the Applicant Guide. Please click “save” frequently as you fill out the form to avoid losing any information already entered.

6.1 Project Dates

6.1.1 Project Start Date (YYYY-MM-DD) (Mandatory)

6.1.2 Project End Date (YYYY-MM-DD) (Mandatory)

Enter project start and end dates between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2028. ECCC will not reimburse expenditures incurred prior to notification of approval-in-principal, regardless of the proposed start date. Reimbursement for these expenditures can only be provided after the signing of a funding agreement. Any expenditures incurred before an agreement is signed with ECCC are at the recipient’s sole risk and expense.

6.2 Project Expenditures Per Year

6.2.1 Eligible Expenditures (Mandatory)

Using information from the completed WBS and Budget Workbook, enter total eligible expenditures aligning with the Government of Canada’s fiscal year (April 1 to March 31).

6.2.2 Ineligible Expenditures (Optional)

Using information from the completed WBS and Budget Workbook, enter the total ineligible expenditures aligning with the Government of Canada’s fiscal year (April 1 to March 31).

6.2.3 Total Expenditures (Auto-calculated)

No action required – auto-calculated based on the total expenditures reported for the project.

6.3 Define Sources of Funding

6.3.1 The Applicant (Mandatory)

6.3.2 Other Sources (Optional)

Provide details regarding the amount and status of funding to be committed by the applicant and any other sources, including project partners and federal, provincial/territorial or municipal governments.  Indicate the amount, status of this funding, the estimated date a funding decision will be made and an alternate source if this funding is not secured. Please note recipients must provide proof all funding has been secured no later than 45 business days after signing the funding agreement.

6.4 Sources of Funding for Eligible Expenditures

6.4.1 Requested Funding (Mandatory)

Enter the amount of DIP funding requested in each fiscal year in order to complete the project. The amount must be equal to or less than the maximum federal funding amount indicated above in question 6.2.1.

6.4.2 The Applicant (Mandatory)

Enter the amount of funding the applicant will provide toward eligible expenditures.

6.4.3 Total Other (Optional)

6.4.3a Other Sources (Optional)

Enter the amount of funding expected in total from other sources, and from each individual source described in question 6.3.2 toward eligible expenditures.  

6.4.4 Total Funding (Auto-calculated)

No action required – auto-calculated based on sum of amounts provided in question 6.4.

6.5 Total Funding Requested

6.5.1 Total Requested Funding (Auto-calculated)

No action required – auto-calculated based on the total amount of DIP funding requested in question 6.4.1.

6.5.2 Total Eligible Expenditures (Auto-calculated)

No action required – auto-calculated  based on the sum of annual eligible expenditures in question 6.2.1.

6.5.3 Percentage Requested (Auto-calculated)

No action required – auto-calculated cost-share based on the ratio of total requested funding and total eligible expenditures. This percentage cannot exceed 40%.

7. Project Risks

The following questions are designed to capture potential and known risks related to the implementation of the proposed project. For more information, please consult the Applicant Guide. Please click "save" frequently as you fill out the form to avoid losing any information already entered.

7.1 Capacity, Financial and Work Plan Risks

7.1.1 Describe any flexibilitiesbuilt into your budget that would account for changes in project expenditures and provide a rationale for inclusion. List any other known risks to the project budget and the associated mitigation strategies.  (Mandatory)

Describe any foreseeable risks associated with the budget (e.g. relating to project readiness, equipment or labour) and the mitigation strategies that would be employed to address them, including a rationale for any flexibilities built into the budget (maximum of 2000 characters including spaces).

7.1.2 Describe the organization’s internal management capacity and expertise to manage and execute a project of this type. Include details such as experience implementing similar projects. (Mandatory)

Describe any foreseeable risks associated with management capacity and the mitigation strategies that would be employed to address them (maximum of 2000 characters including spaces).

7.1.3 If the involvement of other organizations (excluding contractors) is required to support the execution of the project, what will their role be and what type of agreements do you have or need to seek with them (e.g. Joint Venture, Memorandum of Understanding)? (Optional)

Describe the relationships with other organizations involved in supporting the execution of the project and any agreements that will be required (maximum of 2000 characters including spaces).

7.1.4 If external non-technical expertise is required to support execution of the project, what will their role be and how will you obtain the expertise? (Optional)

Describe the extent to which non-technical external expertise (e.g., consultants or contractors) is necessary to support implementation of the project (maximum of 2000 characters including spaces).

7.1.5 Describe any risks or issues that may cause delays in the delivery and completion of the project.  (Mandatory)

Describe any foreseeable risks associated with delays or timeframes necessary to implement the project (e.g. seasonal or weather-related risks, remote project location, limited or restricted access to project site, service availability, or delays related to procurement and delivery of equipment) and the mitigation strategies that would be employed to address them (maximum of 2000 characters including spaces).

7.1.6 Describe any barriers to implementation or other major financial, capacity or work plan risks that have not already been identified. (Optional)

Describe any foreseeable barriers associated with any other financial, capacity or workplan related risks not identified above (maximum of 2000 characters including spaces).

7.1.7 Explain how the capacity, financial or work plan risks described in 7.1.1 to 7.1.6 above will be mitigated. (Mandatory)

Describe the mitigation factors to reduce the foreseeable risks in financial, capacity or workplan related risks indicated above (maximum of 2000 characters including spaces).

7.2 Technical Risks

7.2.1 Have the proposed technologies been previously used, maintained, or supported in the same or in a similar context as this project? (Mandatory)    

Describe any foreseeable risks associated with the technological aspects of the project (e.g., the proposed technologies used in Canada, adapted to the climate of the project location, and/or used in a different context or process than is typical of the industry) (maximum of 2000 characters including spaces).

7.2.2 What is your organization’s experience with this technology? If none, what external technical expertise will you be engaging? Have you (or another organization involved in the project) completed studies or other work? If yes, please describe these activities. Supporting documentation may be attached. (Mandatory)

Describe the organization’s experience with the proposed technology, or what external expertise would be leveraged in order to implement the project, such as: 1) research, development and/or demonstration elements, 2) training or capacity building, 3) feasibility study or other prospective studies 4) preliminary engineering design. If studies or other work have been completed, please describe these activities (maximum of 2000 characters including spaces).

7.2.3 Describe any other major technical risk(s) to the successful execution of the project that have not already been identified. (Optional)

Describe any foreseeable risks associated with any other technical risks not identified above (maximum of 2000 characters including spaces).

7.2.4 Explain how the technical risk(s) described in Sections 7.2.1, 7.2.2, and 7.2.3 above will be mitigated. (Mandatory)

Describe the mitigation factors planned to reduce the foreseeable technical risks indicated in question 7.2 (maximum of 2000 characters including spaces).

8. Project Considerations

The following questions are designed to capture any potential implications the proposed project may have on Indigenous rights and environmentally sensitive areas. For more information, please consult the Applicant Guide. Do not include any pertinent information on the technical scope of the project in this section as this may not be considered when reviewing your application. These need to be included in Section 2 of the form. Please click "save" frequently as you fill out the form to avoid losing any information already entered.

8.1 Indigenous Considerations

8.1.1 Will this project have any implications on Indigenous or treaty rights? (Mandatory)

The Government of Canada has a duty to consult, and where appropriate, accommodate, Indigenous groups when it considers conduct that might adversely impact potential or established Indigenous or treaty rights. ECCC will assess potential impacts of projects to ensure that those affected are properly notified, consulted and where required, accommodated.

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether the proposed project might adversely impact Indigenous or treaty rights.

If unsure, resources from Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC) are available on consultation, engagement and duty to consult.

If yes – in question 8.1.1.a, indicate whether Indigenous peoples, organizations, governments or communities have been advised, engaged or consulted about the project. List all groups and describe how the advisory, engagement or consultation was undertaken. In question 8.1.1b, indicate any concerns raised and how you plan to address them. In question 8.1.1c, indicate whether written support was provided and upload copies in Section 9 of this application. If not yet obtained, please describe when and how this written support will be provided (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces for each question).

8.2 Environmental Considerations

8.2.1 Does the project require a federal, provincial or territorial environmental impact assessment? (Mandatory)

Depending on where a project is located, you may be required to complete an environmental impact assessment prior to undertaking certain activities in order to comply with federal, provincial or territorial legislation.

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether the project requires a federal, provincial or territorial environmental assessment.

If you are unsure of your responsibilities, please consult your provincial or territorial government and the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada’s Basics of Impact Assessments guide.

If yes – in question 8.2.1a, indicate whether the required assessment is federal, provincial or territorial. In 8.2.1b, provide the name of the required environmental assessment and describe why it is required. Please provide any additional relevant information. In 8.2.1c, explain whether this assessment was completed and upload supporting documentation in Section 9 if available. If not, describe the expected process and timeline for completion (maximum of 2500 characters including spaces for each question).

8.2.2 Does the project require permits or authorization from federal, provincial or territorial governments, or from other bodies, such as electrical or natural gas utilities or municipalities? (Mandatory)

Some projects may require specific permits or approvals to undertake certain activities.

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether the project requires specific permits or approvals from local,  provincial or territorial governments or other entities.

If yes – in question 8.2.2a, describe the permits or authorizations required, provide details on the status and timeline to obtain these, the impact that any delays may have on the overall project execution, any other risks associated with obtaining permission and mitigation measures being undertaken to minimize potential impact. Please upload any permits and approvals that you have obtain so far in Section 9 that may further substantiate the validity of the project (maximum of 2500 characters including spaces).

8.2.3 Is the project located near an environmentally sensitive area (e.g. a body of water, a wildlife area or a migratory bird sanctuary)? (Mandatory)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether the project will be undertaken near an environmentally sensitive area.

Please consult the following resources for more information on these types of sensitive areas:

• Marine Protected Areas across Canada
• Ecologically and biologically significant areas
• Species at risk public registry
• Migratory bird sanctuaries across Canada

If yes – in question 8.2.3a, identify and describe the area and any impact the project may have. Describe any mitigation measures that would minimize this impact (maximum of 2500 characters including spaces).

8.2.4 Could the project negatively affect other aspects of the environment (e.g., increased noise levels, waste production or water consumption)? (Mandatory)

Select “yes” or “no” to indicate whether the project could negatively affect other aspects of the environment (e.g. increased noise levels).

If yes – in question 8.2.4a, identify and describe the impact the project may have and any mitigation measures (maximum of 2500 characters including spaces).

8.3 Social and Economic Considerations

The following questions are designed to gather information to help the Government of Canada report to Canadians on the socio-economic impacts of this program. This information will not be included in the assessment process, but is still needed for the completeness of this application form. For more information, please consult the Applicant Guide.

8.3.1 To gain a better understanding of the state of diversity and inclusivity across organizations who own or operate an OBPS covered facility, we are asking applicants whether you have a diversity and inclusion plan or approach for your organization.  (Mandatory)

Select the status of your organization's diversity and inclusion plan or approach:

Select the option that best describes the organization’s approach to diversity and inclusion from the drop-down list.

• Our organization has a diversity and inclusion plan
• Our organization is developing a diversity and inclusion plan
• Our organization does not have a diversity and inclusion but we have implemented measures to promote it
• None of the above
• Other
• Not applicable

8.3.2 If applicable, please describe the goals, commitments, actions, your organization is undertaking as part of your diversity and inclusion plan or approach. (Optional)

 If applicable – Describe in detail the organization’s efforts and targets for diversity and inclusion, including target groups, actions being taken, or other public commitments.

8.3.3 Provide an estimate of the number of new full-time equivalent direct jobs created as a result of project implementation.  (Mandatory)

Enter the number of estimated new full-time equivalent direct jobs created as a result of project implementation. For more information on how to estimate jobs, please consult the Applicant Guide.

8.3.4 Provide an estimate of the change in the average annual jobs at the facility as a result of the project over the lifetime of the project (in full-time equivalent jobs). Note that this estimate may be a negative number. (Mandatory)

Enter estimated change in the number of annual full-time equivalent jobs at the facility as a result of the project.

8.3.5 Describe the methodology and assumptions used to estimate the job outcomes in 8.3.3 and 8.3.4 . (Mandatory)

Describe the methodology and base assumptions used to calculate the job estimates for question 8.3.3 and 8.3.4 (maximum of 1000 characters including spaces).

9. Upload Documents

A GHG workbook, a WBS and Budget Workbook and proof of ownership or authority must be uploaded. Please upload any supplementary material (MOUs or other agreements with third parties, studies or assessments, proof of source of funds, etc.) in the upload field for supplementary material.

9.1 GHG Workbook (Mandatory)

Review the GHG Estimation Guide for Projects developed by ECCC to fill out the GHG workbook. 

9.2 WBS and Budget Workbook (Mandatory)

Provide detailed budgetary, expenditure and work plan information for the proposed project. 

9.3 Proof of Ownership or Declaration of Authority (Mandatory)

Upload proof of ownership or a declaration of written authority showing that the applicant has permission from the owner to undertake the project. Documentation must support the explanation provided in question 1.4.7.

9.4 Upload field for supplementary material (Optional)

Upload additional materials as required.

10. Optional – Feedback

Feedback on this form and the application process is optional. Answers to these questions will be recorded and will not be included in the assessment of the application.

10.1 Approximately how much time was spent completing this application? (In hours)

10.2 What answer best represents the level of agreement with the following statement: “This Application Form and its associated guide are clear, user-friendly and relevant to this application process”.

Radio button options:

• Strongly agree
• Agree
• Neutral
• Disagree
• Strongly disagree

10.3 Please provide any suggestions or comments on how this form or this process can be improved.

This feedback will be used to improve and/or adjust future program intakes.

11. Attestations and Permissions

Please read the attestations and permissions page carefully before providing your response and submitting the application.