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Community Energy Diesel Reduction (CEDR) Funding Available for Remote and First Nation Communities

The CEDR program, which supports remote communities to transition away from diesel-generated electricity, is accepting applications for a third round of project funding.

construction of a new hydropower facility alongside diesel tanks and power lines
Using Renewable Energy for Remote Communities (RERC) funding, Dzawada’enuxw First Nation is building a 350-kilowatt hydroelectric project on Padakus Creek, which will supply power to the village of U’kwanalis. (Photo: Patricia Sayer / Coast Funds)

Eligible remote and Indigenous communities seeking to decarbonize their electricity sources are invited to submit applications for the second intake of the Community Energy Diesel Reduction (CEDR) program. Applications open today and eligible communities are encouraged to apply ahead of deadlines (see below).

Launched in 2022, CEDR is a $59-million program to deliver funding and technical supports for remote communities, most of which are governed by First Nations, to reduce their need to purchase diesel for generating electricity and transition to sustainable, self-determined energy sources. CEDR is delivered by the New Relationship Trust in partnership with Coast Funds, BC Hydro, and the Province of British Columbia, and with guidance from a group of advisors with expertise in energy projects.

Funding Streams

Through CEDR, communities can access funding under three streams:

Renewable energy generation, including feasibility studies, design, engineering, and constriction of renewable energy infrastructure.

  • Maximum funding of $4 million per community.
  • Applications close July 15, 2024.

Community energy planning and management, including development of community energy plans and updates to existing plans.

  • Maximum funding of $95,000 per community.
  • Applications close November 29, 2024, or until funds are allocated.

Energy efficiency and demand-side management, including measures like building retrofits, heat pumps, and other energy efficiency projects.

  • Maximum funding of $500,000 per community.
  • Applications close November 29, 2024, or until funds are allocated.

In its previous intake, the CEDR program delivered $5.6 million in funding for 13 projects, including seven projects in the Great Bear Rainforest and Haida Gwaii.

For more details on project eligibility and application timelines, visit the CEDR page on the NRT website or email cedr@nrtf.ca.