Details on transfer payment programs over $5 million

The objective of this program is to support active and meaningful Indigenous involvement in issues related to the Trans Mountain Expansion project to address potential project-related impacts and cumulative effects.

This Transfer Payment Program does not include any repayable contributions.

NRCan completed a total of 125 TMX Accommodation Measures Contribution Agreements (CAs) with Indigenous groups across 4 initiatives:

• Terrestrial Studies Initiative (TSI): 33 TSI communities submitted final reports, received final payments and successfully closed their CAs, bringing the total of closed CAs to 71 (of 76). TSI Funding was accessed by 59% of the potential 129 communities.
• Terrestrial Cumulative Effects Initiative (TCEI) Capacity Funding: 34 TCEI communities had submitted final reports, received final payments and successfully closed their CAs, bringing the total of closed CAs to 75 (of 86). TCEI Capacity Funding was accessed by 65% of the potential 129 communities.
• Aquatic Habitat Restoration Fund (AHRF) Capacity Funding: 50 AHRF communities had submitted final reports, received final payments and successfully closed their CAs, bringing the total of closed CAs to 93 (101). AHRF Capacity Funding was accessed by 78% of the potential 129 communities.
• Phase IV Participant Funding: 12 of 16 Phase IV communities submitted final reports, received final payments and successfully closed their CAs.

Under these CAs, nearly 90% of the eligible Indigenous groups, out of a total of 129, have successfully accessed over 84% of the available funding through one or more of the initiatives under the Accommodation Measures for the Trans Mountain Expansion project funds.

In light of COVID-19 and other pressures including natural disasters, the eligible expenditure period for these initiatives was extended from March 31, 2021 to December 31, 2022, and for those who required a second extension from December 31, 2022 to March 31, 2023 was offered, to provide Indigenous groups with sufficient time to complete their projects. The process of closing the remaining contribution agreements under these initiatives is ongoing.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Joint Evaluation of Trans-Mountain Pipeline Expansion – Terrestrial Cumulative Effects Initiative is planned for completion in March 2025.

• Canada’s natural resources are sustainable
• Access to new and priority markets for Canada’s natural resources is enhanced

• Electricity Resources
• Energy Innovation and Clean Technology
• Forest Sector Competitiveness

The program will reduce reliance on diesel and fossil fuels in Indigenous, rural, and remote communities by deploying and demonstrating renewable energy projects, encouraging energy efficiency and building skills and capacity.

Grants and contribution payments made under this program are non-repayable.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Evaluation of Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities Program is planned for completion by March 2025.

To meet our climate objectives, the Clean Fuels Fund provides the private sector with cost-shared, conditionally repayable contributions to support the build out of new or retrofit or expand existing, clean fuel production facilities in Canada.

The Clean Fuels Fund has also established a dedicated funding stream for Indigenous-led clean fuel production projects.

To ensure clean fuel producers have access to a consistent supply of biomass feedstocks, conditionally repayable support is also available for the establishment of biomass supply chains to improve logistics for the collection, supply, and distribution of biomass materials (e.g., forest residues, municipal solid waste, and agriculture crop residues) as a feedstock in clean fuel production facilities.

Non-repayable contributions are also available for feasibility studies, basic engineering studies and detailed front-end engineering studies for new facilities, facility expansions or facility conversions. They are also available for Indigenous -led projects.

Non-repayable contributions are also available to address gaps and misalignment in codes, standards and regulations related to the production, distribution and end-use of clean fuels. This support ensures that, as new technologies evolve and enter the market, they can do so reliably, efficiently, and effectively while ensuring they are compatible across jurisdictions.

The Clean Fuels Fund has achieved various results under different streams.

As of 2023-24, the Clean Fuels Fund signed 53 contribution agreements totaling $412 million:

• Under the Building New Domestic Production Capacity stream, a total of 41 contribution agreements have been signed, for six different fuel types in seven jurisdictions.
• Within the Establishment of Biomass Supply Chains, 17 projects have been selected for funding in four jurisdictions. A total of 10 contribution agreements have been signed.
• Within Indigenous-led Projects, four projects have been selected for funding, including three feasibility studies and one Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) study, for three different fuel types in three jurisdictions. A total of two contribution agreements have been signed.
• Through NRCan’s support of Standards Development Organizations between 2023 and 2024, 21 documents were published including standards, codes, technical specifications, and amendments. Furthermore, nine research reports were also completed with several specific to hydrogen production, delivery and end-use. Since 2022, a total of 47 standards documents has been published.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Joint Audit and Evaluation of Clean Fuels Fund is planned for completion by December 2025.

To advance the decommissioning of legacy uranium mine and mill tailings in the Province of Saskatchewan according to current regulatory standards.

To provide financial contributions to the Government of Saskatchewan for it to undertake decommissioning activities at the Gunnar uranium mine site. **

This program does not contain any repayable contributions.

Cost effective and timely action will be taken to address the current environmental condition associated with the Cold War Legacy Uranium Mine and Mill Sites.

During 2023-24, NRCan reviewed Saskatchewan’s annual reports for the project and discussed progress, both of which are required activities under the 2006 Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). No other results were achieved.

$11.17 million in federal funding was available to be contributed in 2023-24 for the remediation and monitoring phases of the project, subject to minor amendments being made to the 2006 MOA. Saskatchewan has not yet agreed to the amendments or accessed these funds. The Gunnar funding was allowed to lapse and was not reprofiled into 2024-2025.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

No evaluation is currently planned for this program given its low materiality. The program will continue to be considered in NRCan’s annual departmental evaluation planning exercise.

Yearly meetings between NRCan and Saskatchewan Ministry of the Economy officials to discuss progress on the project.

NRCan reviewed Saskatchewan’s annual reports for the Project and met with Saskatchewan once during 2023-24 to discuss progress on the Project, as required under the 2006 MOA.

Canada filed an Amended Statement of Defence in August 2020 in response to Saskatchewan’s March 2020 Amended Statement of Claim. NRCan officials met with Saskatchewan officials for court-required mediation in September 2020. No further progress on the legal dispute was made in 2023-2024. The activities related to Saskatchewan’s legal actions are not planned activities outlined in the Departmental Plan.

The Climate Change Adaptation Program (CCAP; 2022-2027) received 184 applications in the open call for proposals and an additional 30 Letters of Interest in the non-competitive process for Indigenous-led projects. A total of 37 projects (32 and 5 respectively) were conditionally approved for funding totaling approximately $15.8 million. These projects aim to support communities, decision-makers, and natural resource-sector businesses in identifying, developing, and implementing adaptation actions; support the enhancement of adaptation knowledge and skills among Canada’s professionals and workforce more broadly; and increase access to climate change adaptation tools and resources. In addition, the CCAP includes a funding envelope (up to $2.25M) dedicated to supporting projects that meet the Territories’ specific adaptation skills development needs.

The program launched the call for proposals, reviewed and selected applications for funding, and drafted Contribution Agreements.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Evaluation of Climate Change Adaptation Program is planned for completion by June 2027.

NRCan regularly collaborates on the identification of adaptation knowledge gaps and future priorities through Canada's Adaptation Platform to inform policies and programs.

Work with program funding recipients included discussions held with each recipient to finalize project proposals, identify funding considerations, and begin the negotiation of Contribution Agreements.

Under CMRDD, eight projects were approved and contribution agreements were signed with proponents for a total value of $22.5M. Project results achieved are not yet available as agreements were signed in March of 2023 and some projects were completed in March 2024. The projects related to this program generally do not have temporary measurable results.

Successful projects will help build the critical mineral inputs for strong and resilient value chains, improve capital and operating costs and effective production from unconventional sources, develop innovative new ways to process minerals, reduce energy and carbon intensity, and improve resource optimization and waste reduction through circular economy principles.

No audits in 2023-24.

A Joint Audit and Evaluation of Green Mining Innovation is planned for completion by September 2026.

No evaluations in 2023-24.

A Joint Audit and Evaluation of Green Mining Innovation is planned for completion by September 2026.

Program officials communicate with applicants and proponents consistently under the normal administrative requirements of the program.

Program officials have also engaged with industry and proponents at various mining related conferences.

For the period 2023-24, there have been six contribution agreements signed under Electricity Pre-development Project (EPP) to fund predevelopment work. These agreements aim to accelerate the development of clean electricity infrastructure projects, including small modular reactors in Saskatchewan and New Brunswick. Battery storage is also a focus, as well as a project to improve grid system monitoring and automation in Nova Scotia as new clean energy assets are commissioned and the proportion of intermittent wind on the province’s grid grows.

Beyond the completion of select studies and related knowledge creation for utilities, EPP has no targets or expected results before 2026-2027, given the long-term nature of its program objectives (i.e., physical construction of large-scale non-emitting clean electricity infrastructure projects).

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Evaluation of Electricity Predevelopment is planned for completion by June 2025.

• Natural resource sectors are innovative
• Clean technologies and energy efficiencies enhance economic performance
• Canada’s natural resources are sustainable

The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Demonstration (EVID) Program supports the demonstration of innovative solutions to technical challenges and other barriers for the deployment of electric vehicle charging infrastructure and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure in numerous applications, including in the urban environment, for fleets, and for public transit.

Key outcomes from the program are expected to address potential technical and non-technical barriers for the deployment of charging and refuelling infrastructure for zero emissions vehicles (ZEVs). Outcomes for the EVID Program include:

• Reduced cost and improved performance (e.g. speed), operational safety, and interoperability of charging stations in Canadian climatic conditions;
• Improved performance, operational safety and reliability of hydrogen refuelling systems for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in Canadian climatic conditions;
• Increased knowledge of non-technical barriers and innovative approaches, leading to improved business cases.

Contribution payments made under this program are non-repayable.

The $76 million EVID Program successfully sunset in 2024, having supported 29 projects, with 26 projects fully completed and the rest in the process of finalizing project activities. The program supported the demonstration of next-generation and innovative electric vehicle (EV) charging and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure in Canada across a number of applications, including:

• novel charging technologies and business models for multi-unit residential buildings and workplaces;
• bi-directional charging with energy storage;
• heavy-duty truck charging and hydrogen infrastructure;
• transit electrification; and
• battery repurposing.

Program funds were leveraged by contributor funds at a ratio of 1.7: 1 (contributors: NRCan), surpassing the program’s target of 1:1.

Examples of projects successfully completed in 2023-24 include $861,000 to Mogile Technologies Ltd to establish a single platform for EV drivers to charge on any network, and $1.3 million to Alectra Inc. for an incentive model for residential customers that reduced EV charging demand by 60% during peak hours.

Evaluation of the Evaluation of the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Demonstration (EVID) Program was approved in November 2023.

The evaluation of the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Demonstration (EVID) Program found it highly relevant to Canada's clean growth and climate change goals, effectively achieving short-term outcomes and progressing towards long-term goals. The program operates efficiently and economically, adapting well to the evolving needs of the EV and low-carbon refuelling sector. Demonstration projects under the program are advancing innovative technologies that support increased zero-emission vehicle adoption. The program has exceeded some of its performance targets and meets a continued need federal support for electric vehicle infrastructure development. Recommendations include enhancing performance measurement to better track progress and outcomes.

A total of two recommendations were made.

The program team engages with industry, academia, associations, provinces, and territories, as well as research and policy groups on an ongoing basis to help identify current priorities, barriers, and opportunities.

In 2023-24, the program team worked with proponents to collect final project reports and prepare for follow-on project reporting. In addition, the results to date from the EVID program heavily influenced the scope of a Request for Information (RFI) that was launched in Spring 2023, as well as the scope of a funding call that was launched in Summer 2023 as a result. The RFI sought input on vehicle and infrastructure innovation gaps, and the call focused on infrastructure gaps and the decarbonization of medium and heavy-duty vehicles.

Under the Green Infrastructure (GI) stream of the Investing in Canada Plan, which supports the Pan Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, NRCan is investing in the demonstration and deployment of clean energy infrastructure through several programs: Smart Grids, Energy Efficient Buildings, Emerging Renewable Power, and Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities

The six projects funded through the Emerging Renewable Power Program (ERPP) support three emerging renewable technologies: geothermal, in-stream tidal and bifacial solar. In addition, nine studies and assessments have been funded under the program and the bifacial solar project was successfully commissioned.

In 2023-24, the Tuh Deh Kah geothermal project in British Columbia transitioned into an expanded resource assessment phase after findings from the first phase of testing and analysis. Two tidal projects supported by the program have faced significant regulatory barriers to deployment.

• Clean technologies and energy efficiencies enhance economic performance
• Natural resource sectors are innovative
• Canada’s natural resources are sustainable

• Energy Efficiency
• Energy Innovation and Clean Technology

The objectives of the program are to:

• increase the energy efficiency of consumer and commercial products
• enhance commercial, institutional and residential building sector performance
• encourage the implementation of cleaner and more energy efficient technologies and practices in the industrial sector
• support low carbon options for the on-road transportation sector.
• accelerate the development of cost-effective energy efficient technologies, design and construction

Contribution payments made under this program are non-repayable.

Energy Efficiency Program

• Led the development of the Canada Green Buildings Strategy (CGBS) (released July 2024) that sets out the Government of Canada’s vision and next steps for greener, more energy efficient and resilient homes and buildings, while prioritizing affordability for Canadians.
• Certified 16 facilities as top energy efficiency performers under the ENERGY STAR for Industry certification, bringing the all-time programing total up to 80 certifications.
• Supported the development, maintenance, and adoption of over 25 energy management and energy savings standards, including ISO 50001.
• Added 5000 new buildings to the ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager (ESPM), where 220 of these new buildings were ENERGY STAR certified (20% increase). The ESPM tool now has over 47,000 buildings representing over 58% of the commercial and industrial sector.
• The Codes Acceleration Fund (CAF) continued to support jurisdictions in adoption and advanced implementation of energy codes or other high-performance building codes, such as net-zero emissions codes, by negotiating 32 contribution agreements,
• The Deep Retrofit Accelerator Initiative (DRAI) signed twelve contribution agreements, two of them Indigenous-focused.

Energy Efficient Buildings Research, Development and Demonstration (RD&D) Program:

NRCan is investing $42.3 million to fund projects that will accelerate the development and adoption of net-zero-energy-ready codes and cleaner technologies to promote highly energy-efficient building design and construction practices, provide cost-effective building solutions, and validate their applications with real-world demonstrations. As of 2023-24, the program has supported 21 RD&D projects. Projects have been successful in leveraging investments, with an average of $2.40 in contributor funding for every $1 of NRCan funding. In 2023-24, six projects were completed, including:

• A Front-End Engineering Study carried out by the Greater Victoria Housing Society to identify cost-effective deep energy retrofit solutions for the Sitkum Lodge, a 75-unit affordable seniors residence, focusing on dramatically reducing energy consumption; improving comfort and indoor air quality; and improving the building’s resiliency to air quality events, warming temperatures, and potential seismic events.
• The retrofit of a 25-year old student residence complex at the Fanshawe College of Applied Arts and Technology, comprised of 68 townhouse units across 12 buildings, into an energy-efficient, low carbon emitting, thermally comfortable and aesthetically pleasing facility.

Greener Neighbourhoods Pilot Program (GNPP)

The GNPP included two funding calls that closed in 2023. The first call is supporting Market Development Teams (MDTs), also known as retrofit accelerators. These organizations will convene and coordinate supply and demand-side actors to identify opportunities for aggregated deep energy retrofit projects, find solutions to regional gaps and barriers, and drive market transformation in their regions. Sixteen proposals were received; six were selected and have signed funding agreements. The second call provides up to $10 million per project to fund demonstrations of whole-building deep energy retrofits in up to six community housing neighbourhoods. Twenty-six applications were received; five were selected for funding and are undergoing due diligence review.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Evaluation of Energy Efficiency Program is planned for completion by January 2026.

Throughout the Energy Efficiency Program, NRCan worked closely with Indigenous organizations/communities, provinces and territories, industrial facilities, associations and research groups. The Office of Energy Efficiency engaged with stakeholders to advance long-term energy efficiency efforts that drive Canada’s transformation to net-zero. NRCan also hosted and attended workshops and webinars (such as via the Canadian Industry Partnership for Energy Conservation (CIPEC); undertook targeted outreach and engagement, including engagement sessions and award recognition nominations; and knowledge and capacity-building activities such as case studies. ENERGY STAR for Products continued targeted marketing and promotion campaigns to improve brand recognition through social media reach and awards.

The Energy Efficient Buildings RD&D Program and GNPP continued its engagement with federal partners; industry; associations; provinces and territories; and research and policy groups to help inform the program. These included the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, British Columbia Housing, and the Canadian Home Builders Association. In addition, the Local Energy Efficiency partnership (LEEP) initiative continued to engage industry stakeholders through its successful workshop series.

For the Energy Efficiency Program, the variance is mainly due to multiple new programs receiving a volume of applications that were higher than expected. The high level of response resulted in longer assessments and approvals, delaying contribution agreement signatures and project implementation.

For the Energy Efficient Buildings RD&D Program and GNPP, the variance is due to unforeseen challenges with proponents, leading either to delays in signing funding agreements or decreasing planned in-year spending (with requests to move planned spending into subsequent years).

• Natural resource sectors are innovative
• Clean technologies and energy efficiencies enhance economic performance
• Canada’s natural resources are sustainable

Through targeted calls and other strategic collaboration and investment programming, the Energy Innovation Program (EIP) advances clean energy technologies that will help Canada meet its climate change targets while supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy. The EIP funds research, development and demonstration projects and other related scientific activities in order to support decarbonization of Canada’s most energy-intensive sectors: industry, transportation, and communities. In the near term, the EIP will help to de-risk and improve cost and performance of existing technologies to help to meet Canada’s 2030 climate goals, while accelerating the readiness of pre-commercial technologies and enable energy system transformations required for Canada to achieve its 2050 net-zero goals.

Budget 2016 funded two years of the EIP at $52.9 million per year. Budget 2017 then renewed this funding and made it ongoing. Budget 2022 provided an additional $63 million per year starting in 2023-24 for a total of approx. $116 million core ongoing funding per year. Additionally, the EIP received targeted time-limited funding to advance key priority areas: Budget 2023 provided $47 million over 3 years for dedicated smart grid research, development and demonstration (RD&D); and Budget 2021 provided $319 million for carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) RD&D.

Contributions under this program are non-repayable since the activities and benefits from the contributions are pre-commercial.

In 2023-24, the EIP supported over 100 external RD&D projects and related scientific activities such as modeling studies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while increasing competitiveness, affordability, and reliability in Canada’s energy sector.

Projects funded through the EIP were successful in encouraging investments, leveraging an average of $2.60 in contributor funds for every $1 of NRCan’s funding, well exceeding the leveraging target ratio of 1:1. Given that results from RD&D projects often do not accrue until after projects are completed, EIP projects^{Footnote 1} report on results for at least five years post-project funding. EIP projects have made advances in technology and research, with proponents filing for 22 patents or other intellectual property; influencing 73 codes and standards, which can often effect large-scale change; and producing 247 scientific publications, technical reports, datasets, models, tools, and other knowledge products. Additionally, EIP projects supported 1,078 direct and indirect job-years and are on track for meeting 2030 GHG reduction targets, achieving 2.7 Mt of direct GHG reductions in 2023-24.

Six new funding calls were launched in 2023-24 under the EIP. All the calls were heavily oversubscribed, demonstrating a critical need for investment in these areas. The funding calls addressed areas where targeted investments are needed to accelerate innovation in order to meet Canada’s 2030 and 2050 climate goals: Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage RD&D – Utilization; Smart Grid Demonstrations and Regulatory Innovation Capacity Building; On-Road Transportation Decarbonization; National Energy Systems Modelling; Methane Measurement and Mitigation; and Battery Industry Acceleration.

555 Expressions of Interest and 113 Full Project Proposals received from EIP applicants were evaluated, and 80 new grant or contribution agreements were signed.

NRCan supported EIP applicants through information sessions or videos at the start of each intake period, and by responding to inquiries and providing guidance throughout the call lifecycle via dedicated mailboxes for each call. Program-wide updates, reminders and outcomes were communicated through NRCan’s website, social media and OERD’s Energy Innovation Newsletter, the Clean Growth Hub’s website and newsletter, and the Clean Growth Collaboration Community to ensure clear and consistent messaging for all applicants. Through lessons learned, NRCan continued to look for ways to strengthen engagement with potential applicants and other stakeholders, including further aligning messaging and communication tools to the target audience and providing additional supports.

In 2023-24, through the EIP and the Program of Energy Research and Development funding, NRCan supported 10 workshops that advanced engagement in New Brunswick, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia in the areas of carbon management and removal, smart grid innovation, renewable and electrification energies, and project management. These workshops brought together leaders from industry, government, and academia to facilitate information sharing, networking, and discussions on key issues in their sectors.

The purpose of the program is to:

• Enhance whole-of-society collaboration and governance to strengthen resilience.
• Enhance disaster response capacity and coordination and foster the development of new capabilities to:
  • Increase capacity to prepare for and respond to wildfires

NRCan provides funding to support:

• Stream 1 – Equipment Fund: Strengthening capacities and capabilities in fire management across Canada by improving prevention, mitigation, preparedness and response.
• Stream 2 – Training Fund: Increasing, by 1,000, the number of and access to trained firefighters and specialized fire management personnel, particularly in Indigenous communities that are at highest risk to wildland fires.

There are no repayable contributions under this program.

Stream 1 - Equipment Fund:

In 2023-2024, there were 11 multi-year agreements active with provinces and territories. NRCan’s incremental investment in equipment was $24.2M with an additional $6.3M invested in personnel. These investments were used to procure new specialized wildfire equipment, to repair, refurbish and refit existing equipment and professional development.

The equipment items primarily procured included:

• General wildfire equipment including hoses, pumps, radios, chainsaws, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Vehicles and heavy equipment
• Mobile structures and trailers
• Aviation investments

Provinces and Territories have identified that most of their procured items have either been mobilized or are being prepared for mobilization for the upcoming fire season. A portion of this equipment is made available to other jurisdictions through national exchange agreements.

Stream 2 – Training Fund:

In 2023-2024 there were 10 active agreements, 90% of which were with or for Indigenous organizations or communities.

Through the program, 644 participants completed various types of wildland firefighter training. 395 were existing firefighters and 249 were new. The training breakdown included:

• 236 Type 2 Wildland Firefighters.
• 23 Type 3 Wildland Firefighters.
• 62 Fire Guardians and
• The upskilling of 323 Structural Firefighters.

Of the projects that reported on participant characteristics (n= 331), 80% were Indigenous, 53% were youth and 15% were women and other.

No audit in 2023-24.

Joint Audit and Evaluation of Disaster Risk Reduction is planned for completion by October 2025.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Joint Audit and Evaluation of Disaster Risk Reduction is planned for completion by October 2025.

The Bioeconomy support through the forest innovation stream developed the following results to support the forest bioeconomy:

• FPInnovations developed a transformative technology through the process that reduces energy use by 15-30% in paper-making kraft mills;
• FPInnovations developed a transformative product through the production of a roll of PFAS-free (also known as “forever chemicals”) grease resistant paper and board at a pilot scale. These paper-based products can be used by restaurants for quick-service products (wrappers, bags, pizza boxes) as an alternative to plastic;
• FPInnovations developed a transformative technology by developing and testing a hybrid electric tractor semi-trailer which reduced average fuel costs by 15%, and an average GHG reduction of 23 KG/100 km. This technology could lead to GHG reductions in transporting wood-based products; and
• A forest sector consulting firm led 5 dissemination regional workshops across Canada (BC, AB, ON, QC, NS) on the Fibre Future project, discussing status and opportunities related to wood fibre. Workshop results were also presented at BIOFOR and the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers’ Innovation Committee.

The Canadian Wood Fibre Centre Contribution Program funded 13 projects after a competitive call for proposals. Research priorities were adaptive silviculture, forest value-chain optimization, traceability and fibre characterization, and forest monitoring tools and techniques. Projects are across Canada. 12 projects are multi-year projects that continue into the next fiscal years, and 1 project with the Université Laval on adaptive silviculture was successful completed.

For the Bioeconomy support through the forest innovation stream, officials met with the principal recipients, FPInnovations and the Canadian Standards Association, on a regular basis, to monitor progress on workplan. Other funding recipients were determined based on sector priorities established through program renewal, and proponents are engaged directly by program officials.

For the Canadian Wood Fibre Centre (CWFC), there was an official NRCan launch in August 2023 and an open information session for interested applicants. CWFC received 34 proposals through the open call for proposals from provincial governments, academia, private sector, First Nations organization, and research consortiums and NGOs. All NRCan service standards for responses were met by the CWFC.

The objective of this program is to generate new knowledge through research and development to enable Canadian forest operators and wood product manufacturers to maintain and improve market access and reduce energy consumption and improve on environmental performance.

The program will also bring new and existing knowledge on issues of domestic and international codes and standards relating to wood products, their manufacture and use. This program will be delivered through non-repayable contribution agreements.

The Forest Research Institute Initiative achieved the following results:

• Provided technical support for wood product codes and standards for wood-based buildings and construction, such as timber-concrete compact flooring;
• Developed nine International Standards (ISO) where FIP lead or supported the technical requirements related to the composition of Lignin; bacteria, moisture, and water absorption of paper board; and tensile strength for tissue products to help with market acceptance;
• Developed detailed assessment of Canadian pulp and paper mills for lime kiln fuel switching; and
• Disseminated information about fibre resiliency, carbon assessment and carbon management tools to support the forest sector assessment of the environmental benefits of wood-based products.

The Green Construction through Wood (GCWood) Program is aimed at supporting the use of low carbon, non-traditional wood construction materials and building systems to de-risk and accelerate domestic market penetration and support Canada’s efforts to decarbonize the built environment.
The GCWood Program supports Canada’s transition to a more wood-inclusive construction industry by funding projects that encourage:

• Greater adoption and commercialization of innovative wood-based systems and technologies and advanced building bioproducts;
• Replication of demonstrated innovative non-traditional wood-based systems and technologies and advanced building bioproducts;
• Research that addresses the gap in technical information needed to facilitate revisions to the 2025 and 2030 National Building Code of Canada to allow for performance based building codes and taller wood buildings beyond the current 12 storey limit; and
• Development and provision of training/education programs, life-cycle assessment and other guides and tools for students, and construction industry stakeholders interested in building with wood and wood products.

The Program provides non-repayable contributions of up to 100% of a project’s eligible costs for the demonstration of innovative engineered wood products and systems. The funding is intended to catalyze a long-term transformational change in which more intensive use of wood becomes a commonly considered option in all construction projects, with broader benefits being realized including GHG emission reductions and economic growth.

The program began signing contribution agreements for demonstration projects, including for the construction of a highly replicable prefabricated, modular, 4-storey residential building using wood fiber panels for thermal or acoustic insulation and high-performance exterior wood cladding systems.

Under the Accelerating Construction Transformation funding, which funds advancing education, building capacity, and supporting building codes and standards; the program supported 3 codes and standards projects, 4 capacity building and 1 advancing education project in 2023-2024. For instance, the Canadian Wood Council will continue to support the WoodSmart program through the development and delivery of training, tools and educational activities to increase the number of educational offering and content related to wood construction and engage with post-secondary institutions, trade unions, association and other construction industry professionals.

GCWood continued to support efforts to advance wood education and build capacity among post-secondary students and construction industry stakeholders through the Accelerating Construction Transformation stream. The program has contributed to skills development, outreach and technology transfer activities to supplement current training and education. The program has reached 5277 construction industry stakeholders and students with education and outreach materials. The program continues to support efforts to equip the construction workforce with the knowledge and skills necessary to deploy mass low carbon building solutions at scale. 2023-24 saw the funding and publication of 10 information products (e.g. technical reports, case studies) that increased the capacity of construction industry stakeholder.

GCWood provided continued support to the code change process in Canada by funding key R&D activities. GCWood is a member of and participated in various Expert Technical Advisory Group meetings throughout 2023 and 2024 to provide advice and recommendations to the Joint Task Group – Harmonized Variations for Mass Timber on the expansion of encapsulated mass timber construction (EMTC) code provisions up to 18 stories led by British Columbia (BC) and Quebec. In advance of the adoption of 18 new EMTC provisions, BC and Ontario recently announced the adoption of such provisions in their respective building codes ahead of the National Building and Fire codes.

The program also continued to update the State of Mass Timber Interactive Map which looked at the history of mass timber in Canada and the current state of mass timber construction and manufacturing capacity. The Interactive SMTC Map is updated regularly and now contains information on over 826 mass timber buildings and 19 manufacturing facilities. This tool has been well received by industry, governments, and other stakeholders, domestically and abroad.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

No evaluation is planned for this program. The need for evaluation is low as the Evaluation of the Green Construction through Wood (GCWood) Program is completed in February 2023.

Program applicants are supported through the establishment of a dedicated program website, which includes access to program guides, eligibility requirements, project announcements, and program administration details. The program also has a dedicated inbox to respond to inquiries.

GCWood launched public call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the Demonstration Project stream over four windows in August 2023. The application process was promoted through the NRCan website, webinars, and social media, as well as through partner organizations across the country. As of 2023-2024, applications and recipients are managed through a Client Relations Management (CRM) tool. GCWood received 97 EOIs between September 2023 and March 2024 through the CRM.

GCWood established a Program Advisory Board (PAB) to provide advice and guidance on identifying Advancing Construction Transformation stream applicants the program should solicit to invite to submit EOIs. The PAB is comprised of invited representatives from the public and private sector with various backgrounds and specialized expertise from across Canada. The program likewise takes unsolicited Expressions of Interest under the Advancing Construction stream.

Selected program recipients are further engaged through regular contact with program administrators to monitor project progress and report against set objectives.

Stream 1 - Fleet Assessments and Retrofits:

Application Success: Stream 1 has successfully received over 400 applications from Canadian fleets seeking to lower their fuel consumption, operating costs, and emissions.

Financial Support: The program has reimbursed a total of $1,661,437 for third-party fleet assessments and truck/trailer retrofits, supporting fleets in their efforts to implement greener practices.

Stream 2 - Contribution Agreements:

Application Process: Stream 2 received 27 applications. By the end of the fiscal year, the applications were still being assessed.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

An Evaluation of the Green Freight Program is planned for completion by April 2027.

Actual spending was lower than planned because the program did not receive as many applications as anticipated. Stream 1 of the Greening Freight Programs received over 400 applications, but this was still below the target. Stream 2 received only 27 applications.

Impact: With fewer applications, the total amount reimbursed for fleet assessments and retrofits was lower than budgeted, and contribution agreements under Stream 2 are still in negotiations, delaying further spending.

Plans to Address Variances: Enhanced Outreach and Marketing: Increase outreach and marketing efforts to raise awareness of the program and attract more participants. This can include targeted advertising, partnerships with industry organizations, and enhanced social media presence. Furthermore, the program is looking to expand its list of reimbursable activities for Stream 2, within the confines of the terms and conditions.

Stakeholder Engagement and Feedback: Engage with stakeholders to understand the barriers to participation and address them. Use feedback to refine program offerings and make them more attractive to potential applicants.

The 2 Billion Trees program has continued to make significant contributions towards the Government of Canada’s goal of planting two billion incremental trees.

In 2023-24, the 2 Billion Trees program signed contribution agreements that represented plans to plant an additional 280.5 million trees. As of March 31, 2024, the program has agreements committed or under negotiation to plant over 553 million trees, representing nearly $1 billion in funding.

Funded organizations reported the planting of an additional 46.6 million trees in 2023-24, representing 211 distinct tree species at more than 1,600 sites across 11 provinces and territories. Projects funded through the program have included capacity building; support for species at risk, including woodland caribou; creation and restoration of forest ecosystems on lands damaged by wildfire, pests, and other disturbances; increased carbon capture; and the creation of parks and greenspaces in and around cities. In 2023-24, 36% of all supported projects were urban, and 21% were Indigenous led.

2BT launched an ongoing call for proposals in December 2022, focusing on long-term agreements, including with Indigenous governments and organizations, municipalities, and for- and non-profit organizations. In 2023-24, the program supported 122 projects. As of March 31, 2024, 2BT has signed Agreements in Principle and contribution agreements with 10 provinces and territories, leveraging a shared commitment with provincial and territorial governments to deliver social and environmental benefits for Canadians through tree planting.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Horizontal Evaluation of Natural Climate Solutions Fund (including 2 billion Trees) is planned for completion by July 2025.

Efforts to directly engage with program recipients and potential applicants to better understand their needs and interest in the program were ongoing throughout 2023-24. Proactive communication with the public and media to effectively report on the program’s progress and outcomes was also a key focus. Engagement activity highlights for 2023-24 include:

• Launch and continued improvements to the online application portal used by applicants to submit their applications, and by program officials to manage projects and collect data. Adjustments were made to improve user experience based on internal and external feedback. New methods for online reporting on project progress were also introduced.
• Launch of the distinctions-based Indigenous Funding Stream (IFS) with allocations to First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and Unaffiliated/Cross-Distinctions groups - a first for NRCan. The Indigenous Funding Stream was co-developed with national and regional Indigenous governments and organizations to ensure funding delivery reflects diverse Indigenous cultures and priorities, while also contributing to Indigenous leadership on climate change.
• Re-launch of the Capacity-Building Stream, which supports organizations to increase their capacity to plant trees via the 2 Billion Trees program.
• Updates to the 2 Billion Trees webpage to provide improved guidance to applicants to the ongoing call for proposals, and to provide statistics on program progress (to be updated annually).
• A webinar series to support applicants with their proposals and provide information on the Indigenous Funding Stream and the re-launch of the Capacity Building Stream.
• Conference attendance by 2BT program officials to engage with potential applicants and external groups (e.g., regional development agencies) and build awareness of the program.
• Distribution of an optional survey to 2BT funding recipients and other stakeholders to help inform priority areas of work for the 2BT Science and Knowledge Mobilization Teams.
• Development of three infographics to explain key program-related topics to the public, including program progress, co-benefits associated with tree-planting, and forest carbon.

Site visits to nearly 20 2BT-funded projects to further develop relationships with recipients and qualitatively assess the progress of their projects.

Helping Canadians make their homes more energy efficient reduces energy demand and supports Canadian environmental objectives while making homes more comfortable and more affordable to maintain, as well as creating good, middle-class jobs in their communities.

The Canada Greener Homes Grant (CGHG) program provides grants of up to $5,000 to help homeowners undertake energy-efficient improvements to their homes supported by EnerGuide evaluations, which qualify for reimbursement of up to an additional $600.

The Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program, most recently enhanced in fall 2023, helps low- to median-income households switch from oil heating to electric heat pumps by offering grants up to $15,000 (in jurisdictions with co-delivery agreements). 

This transfer payment program does not have any repayable contributions.

By the end of 2023-24, the Canada Greener Homes initiative had received over half a million applications and issued grants to homeowners totaling $833.5 million, including reimbursement for EnerGuide evaluations and co-delivery. Newly added Energy Advisors increased to 948 since the program launched.

The Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) program continued to facilitate the transition from oil to heat pumps, thereby improving energy efficiency in homes of low-to-median-income Canadians. In 2023-24, the program received 13,486 applicants (including via co-delivery by provinces and territories). Over 5,800 applicants received an OHPA rebate totaling more than $41.6 million. Co-delivery agreements were finalized with three provinces (Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island), and negotiations with five other provinces and territories are ongoing.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Evaluation of Energy Efficiency Program is planned for completion by January 2026.

To make funding available to Indigenous groups potentially impacted by the Trans Mountain Expansion Pipeline Project (TMX) and the Line 3 Replacement Program (Line 3) to:

• Enhance their capacity to participate in the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees;
• Pursue other Committee objectives including those supporting their mandate to provide advice to regulators on environmental, safety, and socio-economic issues related to the performance of the projects and compliance with conditions; and
• Address environmental concerns related to the broader pipeline corridor over the full lifecycle of the project.

This transfer payment program has non-repayable contributions.

In 2023-24, the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees (IAMCs) for the Trans Mountain Expansion (TMX) and Line 3 Replacement projects delivered 42 contribution agreements.

The IAMC for TMX had a 2-year $10M contribution agreement in place of which $2.5M was provided in 2023-24. This funding resulted in support towards the work and future direction of the IAMC-TMX, progress towards greater Indigenous self-determination and Indigenous monitoring in project oversight, original research on the socio-economic impacts of project construction, emergency management workshops, and support for the Indigenous Caucus. Another $3.78M in contribution funding through 39 agreements was provided to enhance Indigenous community capacity in emergency management and response, Indigenous monitoring, addressing socio-economic effects and impacts related to marine shipping. In total, the funding amount related to executed contribution agreements for IAMC-TMX in 2023-24 was $2.5M + $3.78M = $6.28M.

$2.8M for the IAMC for Line 3 was also provided in 2023-24, through two agreements to support Indigenous participations, implement the Line 3 IMAC Indigenous Monitoring Program, launch an e-learning program, support work on the renewal process, and co-develop a Management Response and Action Plan.

Evaluation of the Horizontal Evaluation of the Implementation of the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees (IAMCs) was approved in March 2024.

The evaluation found that the IAMCs remain relevant and are critical to the Government of Canada’s commitment to Reconciliation, but improvements in design are necessary. While results were delayed by challenges like co-development processes and COVID-19, the IAMCs are vital for ongoing oversight of the TMX and Line 3 projects. Indigenous Caucus members seek greater decision-making power and joint accountability. The IAMCs have effectively advanced Indigenous concerns in regulatory oversight and built trust-based relationships. However, there are delays in government responses to recommendations and a need for better governance processes and more sustainable funding. The IAMCs have improved Indigenous monitoring of energy projects but require further investment in training and capacity building. The evaluation suggests that a stronger governance framework and clearer roles are essential for continued success.

A total of 10 recommendations were issued.

The IAMCs engaged potential applicants and recipients through email distribution, websites, social media, newsletters, meetings, and engagement activities such as regional engagement sessions and Line-Wide Gatherings as well as Indigenous Caucus outreach.

NRCan and the Indigenous Caucuses engaged recipients to ensure compliance with the requirements of the contribution agreements.

The purpose of the Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI) is to support Indigenous objectives in the forest sector through non-repayable grants and contributions.

The objective of the IFI is to advance reconciliation in the forest sector by supporting Indigenous-identified priorities to accelerate Indigenous awareness, influence, inclusion, and leadership. The IFI provides financial support to inclusive, Indigenous-led activities in the forest sector, such as:

• gathering, developing, using, and protecting Indigenous knowledge and science;
• Indigenous leadership and participation in forest stewardship; and
• the identification, consideration, and pursuit of economic development opportunities.

The IFI supports several Government of Canada priorities, including advancing reconciliation and enhancing economic outcomes in Indigenous communities.

At a departmental level, the program directly supports the Minister of Natural Resources’ mandated commitments to support forest sector competitiveness, advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and the Department’s Program Activity 1.2 – Innovation for new products and processes and Sub-Program 1.2.2 – Forest sector innovation.

With a Vote 10 budget allocation of $13 million over 3 years (approx. $4.33 million per year) starting in 2023-24, the IFI supported a number of continuing and expanded projects with existing partners, and announced a call for expressions of interest in the Fall of 2023. The program received a record 163 applications seeking $82 million (a significant oversubscription).

While the program continues to process approvals and negotiate agreements, at the close of the 2023-24 fiscal year, a total of 81 new and on-going IFI grant and contribution agreements were under active management.

In 2023-24, 33 IFI grants were awarded, representing a combined value of $1.6 million. These projects were focused on the gathering, management, and use of Indigenous knowledge and resources to lead or engage with government and industry on forest policy development and sustainable forest management planning.

Results reporting for recipients of IFI grants and contributions for projects that were completed in 2023-24 remains pending (as at the close of Q1 of 2024-25).

In 2022-23 (the last full reporting year), 57 new and on-going IFI contribution agreements were under active management; of which, 23 Indigenous-led forest sector projects were completed, representing a combined, multi-year, investment by NRCan of $5.66 million. These completed projects were focused on the following results:

In addition to typical News Releases and Social Media plans to announce the IFI Fall 2023 Call for Expressions of Interest, NRCan staff hosted bilingual information webinars about the updated elements of the program and application processes.

In February and March 2024, to assess complex and capital contribution funding applications to the IFI, NRCan engaged subject matter experts with a target of at least 75% Indigenous representation among experts.

In January 2024, IFI finalized a procurement contract with an Indigenous vendor to design and host up to 9 engagement workshops (to take place early in 2024-25) to discuss the scope of the program beyond 2026.

NRCan also participated at the 2023 National Aboriginal Forestry Association Conference, the 2023 BC First Nations Forestry Council Conference, the 2023 Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers Conference, the 2023 Ontario Professional Foresters Association Conference, and the 2023 CANDO Youth Summit, as part of engagement efforts on changes to the program approved in 2023, and planned engagement to inform the 2026 renewal of the IFI. These events and other bi-lateral meetings also allowed staff to engage with participants on new project ideas.

The renewal of the IFI was also presented by NRCan senior management and staff in bi-lateral consultations with national Indigenous organizations (via NKWE), and at Indigenous roundtables (December 7, 2023) hosted by the Canadian Forest Sector.

The Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships (INRP) program supports the federal government’s commitment to advance reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples by increasing the economic participation of Indigenous communities and organizations in the development of natural resource projects across Canada.

Contributions will be non-repayable in order to further the objective to increase economic development opportunities for Indigenous communities in the natural resource sectors.

INRP was allocated $80 million over five years starting in 2022-23, with at least $25 million of this funding to be dedicated to early engagement and Indigenous communities’ capacity building to support their participation in the Critical Minerals Strategy.

The INRP program has elicited tremendous interest to date. Due to this high demand, on May 22, 2023, the INRP Program paused the acceptance of new applications. Application intake will re-open at a future date and priority will be given to those proposals that align with the Critical Minerals Strategy.

The INRP supported and increased the economic participation of Indigenous communities and organizations in the development of natural resource projects. From its inception in 2019 the INRP has supported 68 Indigenous economic development projects.

Since the program relaunched in November 2022, NRCan has established 40 agreements with Indigenous communities for projects across jurisdictions and distinctions to build capacity to secure investment opportunities in natural resource projects, including Indigenous-led forestry programs and projects which align with the Critical Minerals Strategy, thereby creating a more ‘equal playing field’ for Indigenous communities to have a voice on economic activities that impact their communities.

The INRP program expended the $16M in funds allocated for 2023-24. Additional funding of $1,550,151 was provided to INRP to support project activities in forestry, clean fuels, and energy. Total expenditures for 2023-24 was $17.5M. Therefore, total spending to date is $56.3M, of which $13.4M is dedicated to Critical Minerals projects.

A Joint Audit and Evaluation of Advancing Reconciliation is in progress and planned for completion by June 2025.

Evaluation of the INRP Program is planned for completion by March 2026.

The INRP is delivered in concert with the Indigenous Partnership Office (IPO). The IPO is the Indigenous engagement arm of the program, with a resolute on-the-ground, and place-based Indigenous partnership approach; centred on understanding, addressing, and advancing economic development priorities of Indigenous communities and organizations.

• The engagement team of the IPO expanded in late March 2023 to strengthen NRCan’s Indigenous engagement capacity and its ability to build deeper relationships in the provinces and territories.
• Also serving as an information hub for Indigenous engagement planning and advice across NRCan, since April 2023, the team has assisted 8 sectors, 47 departmental initiatives, 21 OGD initiatives, and participants in 4 interdepartmental working groups.

INRP program delivery staff in 2023-24 have held 57 meetings with Indigenous organizations to support proposal concepts and development. In comparison to 2022-23, engagement activities reduced as application intake was paused in May 2023.

In fiscal year 2023-24, the program invested $17.5M in 10 projects to support the competitiveness of Canada’s forest sector across Canada and its transformation as a key contributor to Canada’s bioeconomy, with an estimated total project values of $147.3M.

An example of a transformative technology includes $5.3M funded in 2023-2024 in British Columbia, with a total expected IFIT contribution of $6.7M and total project value of $17.4M. The project incorporates robotic technology with artificial intelligence in the mill’s manufacturing process to modernize operations and enhance its fibre utilization. The technology implemented will result in less wood fibre waste and will allow for the use of low-quality inputs such as residual wood and second-growth fibre. It will also improve the quality of plywood panels produced through greater precision and automatic defect detection.

Other Capital Investment projects were funded in areas related to decarbonization and next generation building products, as well as Outreach projects to support the dissemination of best practices through conferences.

Program applicants were supported through the dedicated program website, which includes access to program guides, eligibility requirements, and project announcements, as well as program administration contact details.

IFIT launched a public call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for Capital Investments and Studies stream over four windows in August 2023. The application process was promoted through the NRCan website, webinars, and social media, as well as through partner organizations across the country. As of 2023-2024, applications and recipients are managed through a Client Relations Management (CRM) tool. IFIT received 153 EOIs between September 2023 and March 2024 through the CRM.

Selected program recipients were further engaged through regular communication with program administrators, based on Centre of Expertise in Grants and Contributions standards prior to signing Contribution agreements, and to monitor progress on the achievement of program objectives.

100% of the payments to Newfoundland and Labrador were processed on time and in accordance with the applicable regulations.

The amount of money transferred to Newfoundland and Labrador is largely based on royalties from offshore oil production and is subject to change. Royalty amounts vary year-to-year as a result of fluctuations in crude oil prices, exchange rates, changes in production levels, the timing of sales, and Corporate Income Tax (CIT) collected.

Payments during this fiscal year also included some forfeitures related to exploration licences.

• Natural resource sectors are innovative
• Clean technologies and energy efficiency enhance economic performance
• Canada’s natural resources are sustainable

The program funds research to support the oil spill response community and decision-makers, by increasing knowledge of the effects and efficacy of response technologies and techniques in offshore, offshore platform, near-shore, and onshore pipeline oil spill scenarios.

The objective is to improve Canada's oil spill preparedness and response by collaborating and developing a network with leading researchers, both domestically and internationally.

This transfer payment program does not have any repayable contributions.

In 2023-24, the Multi Partner Research Initiative (MPRI) program allocated over $17.3 million to 21 research projects advancing science and technology for spill response in Canada.

More recently, the MPRI launched a second call for proposals, reallocating $2.8 million over three years to support Indigenous-led and focused oil spill research. These projects aim to integrate scientific and Indigenous methodologies and increase Indigenous participation in oil spill response.

• Encourage and accelerate innovation in the natural resources sectors;
• Assist in the protection of our natural resources, encourage and develop new and more efficient techniques and technology for sustainable development of our natural resources;
• Provide for a better understanding and knowledge of our natural resources.

Contributions will not be repayable as they will be for projects whose primary aim is fundamental research, research and development, demonstration and other pre-commercial activities.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

The program will continue to be considered in NRCan’s annual departmental evaluation planning exercise, in accordance with section 42.1 of the FAA and the TB Policy on Results.

The $1.56 billion in SREPs funds announced in Budgets 2021 and 2022 have been fully allocated. SREPs was recapitalized in Budget 2023 for close to $3 billion dollars, bringing total funding to the program to ~$4.5 billion from 2021-22 to 2035-36. SREPs has no targets or expected results before 2024-25.

As of March 31, 2024, the Program had approved 119 deployment and capacity building projects across nine provinces and one territory, including six national capacity-building projects, and 41 deployment projects with Indigenous ownership (over half of all deployment projects). These deployment projects will add approximately 2,550 MW of new renewable energy generation capacity to the grid, leading to annual GHG emission reductions of approximately 3.3 Mt/year. Projects supported by SREPs will create ~35,000 job years, and 100% of applicants have included an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Plan. Altogether, the total cost of these 119 approved projects is approximately $6.7 billion.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Evaluation of Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways is planned for completion by November 2025.

During the onset of the program, Departmental officials invited industry organizations, governments, academia, Indigenous organizations, and other potential proponents including private developers, electricity system operators, and utilities to information sessions on the program. These stakeholders were also invited to provide program feedback.

Program advisors regularly meet with provincial/territorial representatives in targeted provinces to ensure linkages between federal and provincial support for SREPs projects. Indigenous representatives and non-government subject matter experts are also involved in the evaluation process for capacity building stream proposals.

The variance in grant funding for 2023-24 was due to a lack of eligible approved projects by year end. A request for proposals had been initiated in the winter however the project selection was not completed until after the fiscal year end. While this resulted in the lapse in grant funds, projects selected through the Request for Proposal will help prevent this lapse from recurring in future years.

The variance in contribution spending for 2023-24 reflects supported projects that overestimated the costs they would be able to incur as part of their Q4 estimate. These lapses were caused by unexpected project delays. SREPs continues to ask proponents to provide up-to-date financial forecasts and notify the program of expected changes as early as possible, to avoid lapsing funds.

As a result of the renewal of the Early Intervention Strategy for Spruce Budworm program, over 118,000 hectares of forest were treated in New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador in 2023 to continue protecting jobs in the forest sector, supporting the economy, and preserving forests at risk. Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island did not conduct EIS treatment programs in 2023-24.

In addition, a large suite of research was initiated by Natural Resources Canada in Atlantic Canada, Ontario, and Quebec to improve the knowledge and tools to address current and future SBW outbreaks. In 2022, NRCan launched a call for proposals for the EIS Small Scale Research program which supports 13 external research projects that began in 2023-24.

To date, only low levels of SBW damage have been observed throughout New Brunswick and in treated areas in Newfoundland and Labrador, with no impact on wood supply or the economy.

Expected Results: EIS treatments keep SBW populations below outbreak threshold

Performance Indicator: Percentage of forest areas selected for treatment where spruce budworm populations remain below outbreak threshold.

In NB, 33% of forests within the 2023 EIS treatment areas remain below outbreak threshold (note this area represents only 4 sampling plots that came back with SBW populations above the outbreak threshold in NB; SBW populations remain low throughout the province).

In NL, 33% of forests within the 2023 EIS treatment areas remain below outbreak threshold.

Expected Results: Protection from defoliation of Atlantic Canada’s forests at risk of a SBW outbreak.

Performance Indicator: Level (%) of defoliation from spruce budworm observed in treated areas of Atlantic Canada at risk of a spruce budworm outbreak

In NB, there was 0% zero to light defoliation (≤ 30%) in the 2023 EIS treatment area; 5.5% of the area has moderate defoliation (<31-70%), there was no severe defoliation observed.

In NL, 1% of the 2023 treatment area has light defoliation (≤ 30%); 13% of the area has moderate defoliation (<31-70%); and 8% has severe defoliation (71-100%).

Expected Result: Increased availability and access to scientific knowledge and advice pertaining to forest pests, in particular SBW, and related risks.

Performance Indicator: Number of publications pertaining to spruce budworm and related risks from NRCan or supported by NRCan contribution funding.

In 2023-24, there were 18 publications pertaining to spruce budworm and related risks from NRCan or supported by NRCan contribution funding.

Performance Indicator: Number of presentations on EIS scientific projects made to stakeholders, including advisory committees, advisory boards and conferences involving the sharing of knowledge and information on forest pests and related risks, in particular SBW, to governments, industry, and non-governmental organizations.

In 2023-24, there were 41 presentations delivered on EIS scientific projects.

Performance Indicator: Decision makers integrate scientific knowledge and information in risk management decisions pertaining to spruce budworm early intervention strategy.

In 2023-24, there were 73 citations in the public domain of NRCan’s scientific and technical products on SBW and the EIS published during the Phase 3 program.

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Evaluation of Pest Risk Management Program (DRF Program) is planned for completion by September 2027.

During the period 2023-24, SIPP signed its fourth contribution agreement and committed a total of $11.4 million additional funding in support of predevelopment work for projects that would improve regional transmission in Atlantic Canada.

Beyond the completion of select studies and related knowledge creation for utilities, SIPP has no targets or expected results before 2024-25, given the long-term nature of its program objectives (i.e., physical construction of strategic interties).

No evaluation in 2023-24.

Evaluation of Electricity Predevelopment is planned for completion by June 2025.

The Science and Technology Internship Program (STIP)-Green Jobs invested $15.5 million and created 653 green jobs and training opportunities for youth ages 15 to 30 in the natural resources sector, exceeding the target of 480. Internships and training opportunities took place in all provinces and territories.

Preliminary results for 2023-24, based on data received at time of reporting are:

· 86% of youth were employed/self-employed after participating in the program and 5% returned to school;

· 83% participation by youth from at least one employment equity group, including:

• 52% women;
• 34% Indigenous youth;
• 31% racialized youth;
• 10% youth with disabilities;

· 27% participation by youth who live in northern, rural, and remote communities;

· 78% of placements were in the clean tech sector; and

· 45% of hiring organizations were small and medium-sized enterprises.

Initial recipients (Delivery organizations):

• Regular check-ins with delivery organizations to support the delivery of Year 1 of two-year funding agreements.

Ultimate recipients (Hiring organizations):

• Website updates
• Targeted emails

Youth:

• Youth engagement at the Leading Change Forum as part of Globe 2024.
• Post-placement surveys completed by each youth to gauge the skills acquisition and overall experiences.

External audit by the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development (CESD), “Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program” was completed in November 2023.

CESD found that Natural Resources Canada’s Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program is on track in terms of its targets for supported the funding and installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure for light-duty vehicles. However, there were opportunities to better use federal funding to target locations where access to charging infrastructure was limited and where private investors may not invest because these locations have lower electric vehicle use.

CESD also found that the department’s approach to implementing the program did not include specific targets for funding charging infrastructure, such as for underserved areas. Furthermore, the program was not designed to focus on the continued reliability and convenience of the charging ports. A total of five recommendations were issued.

The project selection criteria for this initiative is informed by ongoing consultations with provinces and territories, as well as experience gained through the delivery of other EV and alternative fuel infrastructure programming.

All provincial/territorial (P/T) governments are engaged bilaterally to better understand their own programming plans. PT governments are presented with the results of the project selection for their jurisdiction. To streamline the access to government funding for recipients, the Program is collaborating with the Canada Infrastructure Bank, the Provinces of BC and NS to co-fund projects through the ZEVIP intake process. The Program also works closely with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to engage municipal governments and the Canadian Investment Bank, which is also funding chargers. The Program also engages with Indigenous applicants, communities and associations through the program’s Indigenous stream.

To support the deployment of smaller infrastructure projects, the Program is working with 38 delivery organizations across Canada to redistribute a component of the ZEVIP funding.