Helping companies use energy wisely—where’s a good place to start?
5 minutes reading
Energy efficiency can appear expensive and complicated. Many companies hesitate because they think only energy experts will succeed. With the right resources and tools, it’s easier than it seems. It pays to save energy—any way you look at it!
Carry out an energy efficiency project in eight steps
Eight key steps to receiving financial assistance and accelerating the cost-effectiveness of your projects.
1. Consult experts
Nothing can replace expert advice. Industry partners can provide invaluable information about best practices regarding sustainable development and energy optimization.
Be sure to consult expert resources in a variety of fields: consulting engineering specialists, contractors, electricians, architects, and equipment manufacturers. They will be able to recommend the most efficient systems and equipment based on your needs in order to optimize your electricity use.
Our teams know all about energy efficiency! Contact us to request support. We will be pleased to guide you toward the solutions that best meet the needs of your project, right from the design stage.
2. Define objectives and target needs
Optimizing electricity use can be part of all kinds of projects, from new and existing buildings to expansions.
The following questions may help you make decisions:
- Do you plan to replace some of your equipment?
- Are you planning to build or renovate?
- What could you include for greater energy efficiency?
With clear objectives, the benefits will be more likely to meet your expectations and your company’s needs.
3. Plan your project
Your objectives help you clarify your destination. The plans you make are your itinerary to help you get where you want to go.
Create your budget and identify the measures that will have the most impact on your electricity use.
Did you know?
For many companies, heating accounts for close to half of their annual electricity costs. Simple measures such as regular maintenance, management based on occupation periods and better building insulation can lead to significant savings.
4. Validate the financial assistance available
The Efficient Solutions Program alone proposes over 200 energy-efficiency measures that are eligible for financial assistance.
With the OSE calculation tool, everything is within reach. Here’s what you need to do:
5. Implement the planned measures
Once your project is defined and the budget is confirmed, it’s time to take action and implement the chosen measures.
This step involves the following:
- Ordering the equipment
- Installing the equipment
- Commissioning the equipment
You may need to rely on experts to install and calibrate the new equipment and carry out quality control operations.
If the measures you’ve selected aren’t covered under the Simplified Option of the OSE tool, you can submit project proposals through the Customized option. If that’s the case, before buying any equipment, contact Hydro‑Québec to find out how much financial assistance is available to you.
6. Use the OSE calculation tool to submit your request for financial assistance
Once the work is complete, you can submit your request for financial assistance using the OSE calculation tool.
Simply follow the clearly indicated steps in the tool. Note: Make sure you are using the correct version of the OSE calculation tool based on the date of the first equipment purchase.
7. Receive the financial assistance
If your request is accepted, you’ll receive the financial assistance to which you are entitled.
This will allow you to recoup your investment more quickly and lower your operating costs thanks to the recurring savings on your electricity bill.
8. Monitor and evaluate the project
Once the measures have been implemented, make sure you evaluate the performance of the equipment that has been installed.
Verify if your objectives have been met and if the expected savings have materialized.
Can energy efficiency be a growth strategy? Better energy efficiency is within reach for all businesses, including yours. Take action now to improve your organization’s overall performance while contributing to a more sustainable future.