Ontario GR Series: Economic Recovery and Contractor Incentives

Exploring HRAI 2021-2022 Ontario Government Relations Strategic Priorities

In the final article of this series, we will be exploring the fourth area of work, Economic Recovery and Contractor Incentives, which was identified by the HRAI and ORAC Government Relations Committee in their 2021-2022 Strategic Priorities. These priority areas have been identified as pertinent concerns for the industry and will guide our work plan in Ontario over the next 12 months. 

The unprecedented impact of the Covid-19 pandemic has had a tremendous financial impact on the operations of the HVACR industry. In order to support efforts for economic recovery, there should be a focus on identifying opportunities that will yield economic benefits to compliant commercial contractors. An investment in the research and consolidation of information on all active Ontario energy efficiency and alternative energy incentive programs would allow members to more effectively capitalize on all rebates and incentives available.

It has also been noted by Ontario contractors that there is often a disconnect between the intended goal of utility incentive programs and their practical application. To ensure that incentive programs are benefiting commercial contractors, efforts to facilitate opportunities to influence the design of programs offered by Ontario utility companies will be made. In doing so, current and proposed utility incentive initiatives will be developed to more effectively meet the needs of commercial contractors.

To help HVAC Professionals access information on various rebate programs, see the NRCan Directory of Energy Efficiency and Alternative Energy Programs site. This directory is an inventory of programs to promote the efficient use or conservation of energy at the end-use level and/or the use of alternative energy in Ontario. Specifically, this directory information on the objectives, type of program, targeted sectors, and contact details for program executors. The directory provides an overview of programs offered by the Government of Canada, provincial and territorial governments, major Canadian municipalities, and major electric and gas utilities and companies.

Additionally, HRAI staff has and will continue proactive outreach to a number of Ontario utility companies to engage on this issue. Our efforts have successfully yielded several opportunities specifically for commercial contractors to influence the design of programs. These opportunities included:

  • October 19th – IESO Save on Energy,  Industrial Energy Efficiency Program Stakeholder Engagement Session
  • November 19th  – IESO Save on Energy, Driving Operational Energy Savings in Mid-Tier Commercial Buildings Panel Discussion

For more information contact Chelsea Goberdhan at 1-800-267-2231 ext. 236, or email cgoberdhan@hrai.ca.

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