Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities Program

On this page

• About the program
• Changing how we work to support community priorities
• Previously funded projects
• Background about diesel use in rural and remote communities

About the program

The Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities (CERRC) program provides funding for renewable energy and capacity building projects to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels for heating and electricity in Indigenous, rural and remote communities across Canada.

In support of the clean energy transition, the program’s objective is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel use by increasing the use of local renewable energy sources and related energy efficiency measures. This creates environmental, social and economic benefits to support healthier and more sustainable communities.

Investing in clean energy solutions in Indigenous communities is a small but important link to energy security, reconciliation, self-determination and economic development for Indigenous Peoples.

Changing how we work to support community priorities

To improve community access to federal clean energy funding and resources, multiple departments are changing how we work.

What does this mean for applicants?

• One application that you can submit for either CERRC or the Northern Responsible Energy Approach for Community Heat and Electricity program (REACHE), available on the Clean energy for Indigenous, rural and remote communities website
• Simplified project reporting
• More flexible Terms + Conditions
• An Indigenous Council to guide our work starting in fall 2022
• On-going conversations and information sessions to improve program delivery and work towards Indigenous Climate Leadership

Previously funded projects

Launched in 2018, the CERRC program was allocated $220 million over 8 years to reduce diesel reliance for heat and power in Indigenous and remote communities. CERRC received an additional $233 million over 5 years through Budget 2021. The program has supported 111 projects nationally, including capacity building initiatives, large capital projects, innovation projects, and bioheat projects. Want to learn more about what type of projects CERRC has funded? Check out the list of currently funded projects.

NRCan’s Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative supports 14 Indigenous clean energy champions and their communities and has provided over $28 million for community clean energy planning, engagement, and implementing projects. This initiative is delivered in collaboration with the Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise and the Pembina Institute.

Background about diesel use in rural and remote communities

Rural and remote communities that are not connected to the North American electricity grid often use diesel and fossil fuels to generate heat and power. Using fossil fuels for heat and power is expensive and has an impact on the environment, including air quality.

Energy efficiency and conservation measures can help to reduce overall demand for fossil fuels, create warmer, healthier homes and provide savings to communities. Cost savings can enable communities to invest in other community-driven priorities. Local renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, hydro or biomass can replace diesel, reduce environmental and health impacts, and create local economic opportunities.

Find out which energy sources are used by rural and remote communities by visiting the Atlas of Canada - Remote Communities Energy Database.

Definition of rural and remote communities

Rural community is defined as a community connected to the North American electrical grid and not connected to the North American piped natural gas network, with a population of fewer than 5,000 people and a population density of less than 400 people per square kilometre. A permanent or long-term (5 years or more) settlement with at least 10 dwellings.

Remote community is defined as a community not currently connected to the North American electrical grid nor to the piped natural gas network and which is a permanent or long-term (5 years or more) settlement with at least 10 dwellings. Includes all Northern Remote Communities.

Resources

 

Related links

• Findings: The Clean Energy Transition for Utilities Serving Remote Communities