Are you aware of the importance of securing your commercial rebates early? If not, the recent news from Alberta should be a wake-up call.
Just this week, we received an email from the rebate administrator in Alberta, alerting us that all funding for 2023 had been spent. And in a flash their rebate program was gone, at least for the next 8 months.
In this case, it was ultimately the success of the rebate program that closed it down. Utilities do their best to target spending for efficiency programs each year. Occasionally, programs are underutilized and utilities offer bonuses for projects to speed up their timeline. But, more often than not, budgets run out early, and growers seeking LED rebates are asked to return after the next calendar year, or not at all.
It is surprising to see a budget completed in April. We believe this highlights the success of rebate programs in general, with a growing practice amongst customers to ask for them. It may also demonstrate the prevalence of larger commercial incentives that can eat up a budget with only a few projects.
It’s also worth noting that projects that have already been pre-approved will receive funding. Only projects that haven’t applied yet will be turned down. We’re glad to have secured a few Gavita rebates before the announcement.
This is a perfect reminder of why it is so important to apply for funding early. Even if you are sorting out timelines and details, pre-approval is generally good for 12-18 months after issuance. And, with Seinergy on your team, it is easier to modify an application after it’s approved than fight for funding that’s been reserved for someone else.
At Seinergy, we provide customers with custom $-back rebate estimates for commercial horticultural equipment. And we pride ourselves on their accuracy. However, our estimates are just that – an estimate. Rebate programs change quickly and depend on many things, including how many other projects are seeking funding at the same time. We hate it when a customer waits too long; until receiving a rebate is no longer an option.
Would your plans change if your utility incentive funds dried up? To avoid missing out on rebate funding opportunities, it’s essential to act early. Whether you’re a grower seeking LED rebates or looking for other funding opportunities, don’t delay. Contact us now at rebates@seinergy.com to schedule a consultation, or request a custom estimate, and learn how we can help you secure rebates for your horticultural equipment, or sign up if you’re ready to go.
