Efficiency Nova Scotia Lighting Rebates
Efficiency Nova Scotia's Small Business Energy Solutions fund is fully committed for 2026, and if you are quoting Nova Scotia retrofit work, that timing affects what you tell a client. New projects can still be approved and completed this year, but incentive payments on anything preapproved in 2026 will not be issued until 2027. Rebates are delivered three different ways depending on the product: pre-approval only for certain small-business lamps and luminaires, instant in-store for standard fixtures, and mail-in for high-bay and outdoor products. This guide is written for the person preparing the quote, not the building owner claiming the rebate. It covers which delivery track applies to your job, what high-bay and troffer fixtures actually pay, and how to put a rebate figure in a proposal without promising a payment date the program cannot guarantee.
Which track applies to your job
Efficiency Nova Scotia delivers rebates three ways. Certain small-business-only lamps and luminaires require pre-approval before purchase for businesses under 350,000 kWh annually. Standard eligible products get an instant in-store rebate at participating distributors. High-bay, outdoor, and specialty fixtures use mail-in claims after purchase. A separate Small Business Energy Solutions program, for businesses under 600,000 kWh annually, offers rebates plus 24-month interest-free financing.
Small business funding fully committed for 2026
Efficiency Nova Scotia's Small Business Energy Solutions fund is committed for 2026. New projects can still be approved and completed this year, but incentive payments for anything preapproved in 2026 will be issued in 2027.
Headline figures
DLC Premium high-bay luminaires pay $100 to $450 per fixture depending on lumen output. Troffers pay $10 to $50. Occupancy sensors pay $10 to $40 depending on mounting type, and daylighting controls pay $10 to $30, both calculated separately from fixture rebates.
Frequently asked questions
Is Efficiency Nova Scotia's Small Business Energy Solutions program still accepting applications?
Yes, but funding for 2026 is fully committed, so incentive payments for newly preapproved projects will be issued in 2027.
What is the difference between in-store and mail-in rebates?
In-store rebates are applied instantly at purchase. Mail-in rebates require a claim with proof of purchase submitted afterward.
How much does the incentive pay for a high-bay LED fixture?
$65 to $450 per fixture depending on DLC tier and lumen output.
Are lighting controls covered separately from fixtures?
Yes, occupancy sensors and daylighting controls have their own rates, separate from fixture rebates.
Can I show the rebate amount in my customer's proposal?
Yes, labeled as an estimate, since pre-approval and mail-in claims are not confirmed until reviewed.