Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why are lighting incentives being retired?

Businesses across New Brunswick have made significant progress in upgrading to high-efficiency LED lighting. Today, LEDs are affordable, reduce energy use, improve light quality, and reduce maintenance. Our incentive programs can now focus on new energy-saving opportunities.

2. Does this mean lighting incentives are ending immediately?

No. Businesses still have time to take advantage of lighting incentives before program deadlines. If your facility still uses fluorescent, CFL, or other legacy lighting systems, there is still an opportunity to upgrade and receive incentives while they remain available.

Lighting incentives are being retired under the following programs:

3. When are lighting incentives ending?

Program Incentive Ending Milestones

Business Rebate Program

January 31, 2027: Last day to register a new lighting project.

Commercial Buildings Retrofit Program

March 31, 2027: Deadline to submit your pre-approval application for lighting projects.

Industrial Energy Efficiency Program

September 30, 2027: Final date to complete your lighting project and submit your incentive claim.

Midstream Business Rebate Program

March 31, 2027: Rebates will no longer be available at participating distributors.

Rental Owners Rebate Program

No change at this time.

Important: To remain eligible for incentives, ensure your project is registered, pre-approved where required, completed, and submitted before the applicable deadlines.

4. Why are there different deadlines?

The pre-approval deadline and completion deadline are different to give businesses time to complete approved projects.

Businesses can secure project approval before March 31, 2027, and then have until September 30, 2027 to complete installation and submit their incentive claim.

5. Does this affect my current lighting project?

If your project has already been approved or is currently underway, it may still be eligible for incentives, provided all program requirements and deadlines are met.

We recommend reviewing your project status and ensuring that all work and claim submissions are completed before the applicable deadlines.

6. Should I still upgrade my lighting if I've waited this long?

Yes. Older lighting systems can continue to consume more energy and require more frequent maintenance or replacement.

Upgrading the remaining legacy lighting in your facility can help reduce ongoing operating costs and modernize your space.

7. What kinds of lighting should I consider replacing?

You may want to consider upgrading if your facility still uses:

  • Fluorescent lighting
  • Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs)
  • High-intensity discharge (HID) lighting
  • Other older or inefficient lighting systems

These fixtures are commonly found in warehouses, storage rooms, maintenance areas, back spaces, and older sections of facilities.

8. What are the benefits of upgrading to LED lighting?

LED lighting can help your business:

  • Use up to 75% less energy than traditional lighting
  • Lower electricity costs and improve your bottom line
  • Last up to 25 times longer, reducing replacement costs and maintenance requirements
  • Improve visibility, comfort, and light quality for employees and customers
  • Reduce downtime associated with lighting failures
  • Enhance workplace safety with brighter, more reliable lighting
  • Support your organization’s sustainability and energy-efficiency goals

9. Do I need to register before purchasing new lighting?

It depends on which program you decide to use. Some programs require pre-approval before equipment is purchased or work begins, while the Midstream Business Rebate Program offers instant incentives through participating distributors. Always review program requirements before purchasing equipment or starting your project.

10. Will I still be able to upgrade my lighting after incentives end?

Absolutely. You can upgrade your lighting at any time, even after incentive funding ends. While lighting incentives may no longer be available after the program deadline, switching to energy-efficient LED lighting can still be a smart investment for your business. Over time, the energy savings can help offset the cost of the upgrade, allowing the investment to pay for itself.

11. How do I get started?

Getting started is easy:

  1. Identify any remaining older lighting in your facility.
  2. Find the program that best fits your project.
  3. Confirm incentive eligibility.
  4. Apply for pre-approval if required.
  5. Complete your project before the applicable deadlines.

12. Who can I contact if I have questions?

If you have questions about your eligibility, project requirements, or deadlines, please contact our team or submit an Enquiry Form.