Introduction: The Green Freight Program

Program Overview

The Green Freight Program, initiated by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), is designed to encourage and support the adoption of fuel-efficient technologies and practices in the heavy-duty transportation sector. The program aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve fuel efficiency by providing financial incentives and support to owners and operators of heavy-duty vehicles.

The program offers funding opportunities to eligible participants who are willing to invest in fuel-saving technologies and measures. Fleets are eligible for up to $250,000 per year through 2027 within a number of equipment categories ranging from aerodynamics to anti-idling equipment.

Eligibility Criteria

There are eligibility criteria for applicants as well as vehicles.

Applicants must be an entity operating in Canada under an approved category (ex. corporations, academic institutions, governments) and have one or more heavy-duty vehicles for business use in their fleet that is licensed and insured to operate in Canada.

Vehicles must be class 2B or above and have been in service for a minimum of one year. Vans, SUVs, pickup trucks, public transit buses, school buses and off-road vehicles are ineligible for program funding.

Funding Streams

Assess and Retrofit

Stream 1 of the program provides grants towards third-party fleet energy assessments and truck / trailer equipment retrofits. For fleet energy assessments, the program will provide up to 50% per company, to a maximum of $40,000. For equipment retrofits, the program has established a list of eligible technologies and will provide up to 50% per device. The maximum amount payable for eligible activities under stream 1 is $250,000 per Applicant.

This stream is now open and currently accepting applications.

Repower and Replace

Stream 2 of the program will offer 50% cost-share contributions up to a maximum of $5,000,000. This stream will be open to fleets that have already completed a fleet energy assessment and are looking to implement recommended complex engine repower projects, fuel-switching to clean fuels, large-scale enhanced logistical and best practice projects.

This stream is set to open soon - we'll be sure to let our community know of any updates. Follow us on LinkedIn or on Facebook to stay connected.

Applying for Funding

At Green Freight Assessments, we work with our customers through a 5-step process to accessing funding.

1. Program Introduction Session

   This call helps our team learn about your organization and your plans to increase fleet efficiency. We'll work with you to identify what equipment you may be interested in retrofitting, develop a high-level estimate of what you could expect to receive through the Green Freight program, and deliver a detailed proposal of the process from end-to-end.

   
   

2. Fleet Energy Assessment Submission

   To submit our retrofit plan for approval, we'll make a data request of everything we need from your team. This will include information on your fleet such as the quantities of different types of equipment, age, kilometres travelled, etc. Then, we'll take up to 2 weeks to develop a tailored fleet energy assessment and submit it.

   
   

3. Equipment Purchase and Installation

   Once the assessment is approved, you may purchase and install the equipment on your fleet.

   
   

4. Grant Application Submission

   Another data request will be required, including items such as truck and trailer registration as well as proof of installation. Once required documentation is prepared, we may now submit the final grant application for funding.

   
   

5. Funding Received

   Funds will be direct deposited to your account. We can apply for funding multiple times throughout the year, but it is important to ensure we're applying as early as possible as funding is provided on a first-come, first-served basis for the allocated amount of a given year.

Why You Should Apply

There are a few reasons why heavy-duty fleets should apply for funding through the Green Freight Program:

1. Cost Savings:

   Fuel represents a substantial portion of operating expenses for heavy-duty vehicles. By adopting fuel-efficient technologies and practices, fleets can reduce their fuel consumption, resulting in long-term savings on fuel costs. The funding provided by the Green Freight Program can help offset the initial investment required to implement these technologies.

   
   

2. Ease of Application:

   With the support of Green Freight Assessments, applying for grant funding can be simple and straightforward. We take care of the tedious and complex work of conducting fleet energy assessments and writing grant applications. Our team of professional consultants will work with you throughout the process to make it easy on you and your teams.

   
   

3. Enhanced Competitiveness:

   Fuel efficiency and sustainability have become essential considerations in the transportation industry. By embracing fuel-saving technologies and practices, heavy-duty vehicle owners can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and gain a competitive edge. Companies that prioritize environmental responsibility are often viewed more favorably by customers, regulators, and the general public.

   
   

4. Environmental Impact:

   Participating in the Green Freight Program allows fleets to contribute to environmental stewardship by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting fuel-efficient technologies, vehicles consume less fuel and generate fewer emissions. This helps combat climate change and supports Canada's commitment to reducing carbon footprints.

Conclusion

Overall, the Green Freight Program offers heavy-duty vehicle owners a chance to reduce fuel consumption, cut costs, and demonstrate environmental leadership. By participating in the program, fleets can take proactive steps toward a more sustainable and efficient future and contribute to Canada's broader sustainability goals.

If your fleet is interested in applying, reach out to Green Freight Assessments to learn more about our process and how we can help your fleet access funding.

Contact us today!

Email: info@greenfreight.ca