Overview


The Grid Innovation Fund 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 Fund 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 Fund also supports projects that identify and mitigate market barriers, or otherwise accelerate the adoption of competitive cost-effective energy solutions.

 

Since 2005, the Grid Innovation Fund (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 Grid Innovation Fund invests in projects through two types of calls. First, the Fund periodically issues targeted calls for projects addressing a specific challenge or opportunity identified by the IESO. Second, at least once a year, the Fund accepts applications through open calls to capture the most promising ideas from the market. Please refer to this webpage for the timing of the next open intake window.

The Grid Innovation Fund 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 the Fund. Refer to the Eligibility and Fund Application webpage for details.

The IESO Grid Innovation Fund, formerly the Conservation Fund, accepts unsolicited applications during defined intake windows. The next intake window is open from March 1 to 31, 2019.

 

Since the July 2018 intake window, the IESO has introduced changes to project eligibility and program documents. To learn more, visit the Eligibility and Fund Application webpage and download the Application Guideline and Project Overview Application template.

 

Questions can be directed to gridinnovationfund@ieso.ca.

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 us at gridinnovationfund@ieso.ca.