Grid Innovation Fund

The Grid Innovation Fund (GIF) advances innovative opportunities to achieve electricity bill savings for Ontario ratepayers by funding projects that either enable customers to better manage their energy consumption or that reduce the costs associated with maintaining reliable operation of the province’s grid. The GIF makes investments in specific projects – not companies – with clear objectives. It supports projects that validate the performance and business case of promising new technologies, practices, and services. The GIF also supports projects that identify and mitigate market barriers, or otherwise accelerate the adoption of competitive cost-effective energy solutions.

Since 2005, the GIF (and its predecessor funds the Technology Development Fund and Conservation Fund) has provided financial support for more than 200 innovative energy projects across the province.

The GIF periodically issues targeted calls for projects addressing a specific challenge or opportunity identified by the IESO, or the accepts applications through open calls to capture the most promising ideas from the market.

The GIF invests in projects no more than three years in length, and funds up to a specified percentage of project costs, depending on project type. Please note that projects centred on most forms of generation are not eligible for GIF funds.

The GIF does not provide funding to individuals, including incorporated individuals and sole proprietorships. With the exception of waste energy recovery initiatives, projects relating to the research, development and demonstration of transmission, distribution and electricity generation (e.g., solar, wind, waterpower, and fossil fuels) technologies are also not eligible for funding.

Who can apply?

Both non-profit and for-profit incorporated entities can apply to the Fund. The Grid Innovation Fund does not consider applications from individuals, including incorporated individuals and sole proprietorships.  Eligible applicants include, but are not limited to:

• Local hydro companies
• Technology companies
• Consulting firms
• Industry associations
• Educational institutions
• Public sector organizations

Contact us

Have questions? Email the Grid Innovation Fund.