Not currently accepting proposals
In 2025, the Utility Support Stream (USS) completed a multi-staged project selection process, including inviting select proponents that participated in an Expression of Interest (EOI) process to complete a full project proposal. The Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways Program (SREPs) has now evaluated all project proposals and is conducting due diligence of proposals selected for potential funding. SREPs has notified all applicants of their proposal status.
Objectives
The Government of Canada recognizes that Canadian utilities and system operators are working to modernize their grids, better integrate Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), such as utility storage systems and microgrids, and striving to reliably meet the demands of increased electrification at the least cost to ratepayers.
The SREPs’ USS supports utilities and system operators in modernizing their systems and integrating renewables while maintaining reliability and affordability. Projects funded under the USS will:
- Improve the utilization and efficiency of existing assets;
- Increase the reliability, resiliency, and flexibility of the power system;
- Increase the integration and use of renewable resources and non-conventional infrastructure solutions;
- Generate economic and social benefits; and
- Help accommodate growing demand for clean and affordable electricity.
Current funding opportunities
SREPs is not currently accepting proposals under this Stream.
Future Funding Opportunities
USS requests for EOIs and requests for proposals will take place over the life of the program and will have specific eligibility criteria, which may vary for each request. New funding opportunities will be announced on this page and will be shared via the SREPs email distribution list.
Eligible projects
Projects under the USS must be led by a utility, system operator, or an entity that demonstrates that the project will directly benefit a utility and/or system operator to meet their needs.
The USS funds:
- deployment of grid modernization projects; and
- utility pre-development projects.
Grid modernization deployment projects include upgrades and expansions to transmission and distribution systems, and technology upgrades which increase the future integration of clean electricity generation. USS projects will improve grid reliability, resiliency, and flexibility while improving affordability and enabling greater adoption of renewable energy. Projects can propose technologies as they see fit to meet these goals, but projects must:
- Enable modernization of the electricity system;
- Represent a permanent installation of equipment or a modification to existing processes, equipment, or systems for commercial operations;
- Be located in Canada and provide services or capabilities for sale or use in Canada; and
- Represent a proven technology – Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 8 or aboveFootnote 1.
Under this Stream, utilities and system operators may apply for funding for deployment and/or pre-development projects.
In addition to deployment projects, the USS is also providing funding for utility-led pre-development projects focused on how best to expand the electricity grid or integrate more clean electricity. Pre-development activities refer to the various planning, analysis, and assessment tasks necessary prior to the deployment of grid modernization projects or solutions, including engineering design work, feasibility studies, and other activities.
Contact us
Please direct questions about this stream to the SREPs Team: sreps-erite@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca.
To receive USS updates by email, please send us a request with "Add me to USS Distribution List" in the subject line.