Bruce County’s Energy Transition Initiative Now Available for Small Businesses
Bruce County's Energy Transition Initiative is now available to help local businesses adopt clean energy, reduce costs, and access funding.
Small businesses in Bruce County can now access new supports to help them adopt clean energy solutions through the county’s Energy Transition Initiative. The program, launched on March 4, 2025, provides guidance, training, and connections to help businesses reduce energy costs and transition to lower-carbon energy sources.
Funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, the initiative assists businesses in understanding regulations, accessing financial incentives, and developing energy transition plans. Businesses will have access to workshops, cutting-edge resources, and expert guidance to support energy transition planning.
Jeff Loney, Bruce County’s economic development manager, said the initiative was developed in response to ongoing discussions with local businesses about energy costs, sustainability goals, and adapting to changing regulations.
“What we’re aiming to do is provide businesses with both the guidance and tangible resources they need to take those first steps into clean energy adoption—whether that’s through energy audits, accessing funding programs, or connecting with local suppliers for technology solutions,” he explained.
The initiative is expected to benefit businesses across various sectors, including small manufacturers, farms, and tourism operators. A farm, for example, could use the program to apply for funding to install solar panels, reducing reliance on propane heating for livestock barns.
A restaurant might receive assistance in navigating rebate programs to upgrade kitchen equipment, leading to lower operational costs and a reduced environmental footprint.
To help facilitate the transition, the initiative will also encourage leading suppliers of cleaner energy technology and funding organizations to participate. Businesses will have opportunities to connect directly with these suppliers, fostering partnerships and collaborative solutions.
Networking events will help businesses build capacity and explore innovative strategies for energy transition. Additionally, marketing and public recognition efforts will be integrated into the initiative to showcase successes and increase visibility.
“With government mandates coming, the clean energy transition is becoming an even more pressing issue for businesses looking to protect their bottom line,” Loney said. “This initiative is about helping local businesses who may not have the capacity to completely focus on this change stay competitive by lowering operational costs and opening new revenue opportunities.”
More information on the initiative is available at businesstobruce.com/energy-transition-initiative.