The Alberta government recently announced that they will provide $2.5 million in funding through The Alberta Indigenous Solar Program (AISP) and the Alberta Indigenous Community Energy Program (AICEP), for First Nations and Metis Settlements to undertake renewable energy projects and energy efficiency audits in their communities.
“Indigenous communities are at the frontlines of climate change and want to be part of the solution. These programs will help Indigenous organizations and communities reduce their emissions and energy bills while creating good jobs and a healthier, more diversified energy economy.”
– Richard Feehan, Minister of Indigenous Relations
The Alberta Indigenous Solar Program (AISP) is a pilot program that provides grants to Alberta Indigenous communities or organizations to install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on facilities owned by the community or organization. The purpose of this program is to encourage solar adoption within Indigenous communities, increase Indigenous participation in Climate Leadership initiatives that reduce community greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as well as create more sustainable community energy generation.
Who can apply?
- First Nation communities, Metis Settlements and the Aseniwuche Winewak Nation
- Indigenous-led organizations, including Friendship Centres and Indigenous community-owned businesses
- Applicants must be in compliance with the terms and conditions of any previous Alberta Indigenous Relations funding
- Applicant communities or organizations must be located in the Province of Alberta
What kinds of Solar PV Projects are eligible for funding?
AISP grant funding supports projects that:
- are compliant with the Government of Alberta’s Micro-generation Regulation 27/2008 if it is grid-connected (Installations may be considered even if they are not grid-connected)
- are greater than or equal to 2 kilowatts (kW DC PV array capacity) and less than or equal to 1 megawatt (MW DC PV array capacity) in installation capacity
- have a cost under $3.75 per watt
- are completed within one (1) year of the signing of the grant application
- are new installations, where “new” is defined as installations that are completed and operational (energized) after the Indigenous Relations Climate Leadership grant application is approved.
How much funding can I get?
- AISP provides funding for up to 60% of eligible expenses up to a maximum of $200,000 per project. Applicants can access other non-Government of Alberta funded programs to cover the remaining 40% of the project costs. The maximum funding stacking level is 100% of eligible costs.
- Each successful application will be funded on a first come/first serve basis.
- The call for submissions opened on October 5, 2016, and will remain open for submission until program funding is exhausted.
Do you qualify for this grant and would like to apply for it?
Please click here for more information on how to apply for this grant.
Please contact us at 403 251 0668 or 780 474 8992 for a free estimate and quote. We will also assist you with the submission of your grant application.