Energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades eligible for CEIP financing
All improvements must reduce energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, or water usage. Each project is evaluated by DRC to confirm eligibility and projected performance.
Upgrades to doors, windows, insulation, and air sealing that improve the thermal performance and airtightness of the building shell.
High-efficiency heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and water heating equipment that reduces energy consumption.
LED retrofits and lighting controls that reduce electricity consumption while maintaining or improving light quality.
On-site renewable energy generation systems including solar photovoltaic arrays, solar thermal collectors, and other renewable technologies.
Building automation and control systems that optimize energy use through monitoring, scheduling, and load management.
Variable frequency drives and high-efficiency motors that reduce electricity consumption in commercial and industrial applications.
Energy-efficient commercial kitchen ventilation and equipment upgrades that reduce energy consumption in food service operations.
DRC evaluates every proposed improvement through a structured assessment process tailored to the property type. For commercial and industrial properties, a pre-project ASHRAE Level 3 energy audit establishes baseline performance and validates the projected energy savings. For residential properties, a simplified energy assessment is used to determine eligibility and expected outcomes.
After installation, all property types undergo a post-project ASHRAE Level 2 energy audit one year after completion. This verifies that actual energy savings meet or exceed projections, protecting both property owners and investors.
This audit-verified approach is central to DRC's private-capital model. By confirming measurable outcomes for every project, DRC maintains the credibility and performance track record required to attract ongoing investment at favourable rates -- keeping financing costs low for property owners.
DRC administers CEIP for all property types across Alberta. Assessment requirements and funding limits vary by property type.
| Property Type | Max Funding | Application Fee | Pre-Project Audit | Post-Project Audit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential | $50,000 | $100 | Simplified energy assessment | Energy evaluation |
| Commercial | $1,000,000 | $500 | ASHRAE Level 3 energy audit | ASHRAE Level 2 energy audit (1 year post-completion) |
| Farm | $300,000 | $200 | ASHRAE Level 3 energy audit (agriculture-adapted) | ASHRAE Level 2 energy audit (1 year post-completion) |
| Non-Designated Industrial | $1,000,000 | $500 | ASHRAE Level 3 energy audit | ASHRAE Level 2 energy audit (1 year post-completion) |
Energy audit requirements are a DRC policy choice for private-capital de-risking, not a regulatory mandate. Alberta Regulation 212/2018, Section 7.3 permits the program administrator to define the scope of assessment requirements.
Work with a DRC Qualified Contractor to plan and deliver your energy improvement project under CEIP financing.
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