MANITOBA SCHOOLS LIGHTING INITIATIVE
NEW FUNDING OPPORTUNITY FOR ENERGY-EFFICIENT LIGHTING
The Manitoba Schools Lighting Initiative is a new limited-time offer aiming to help K–12 schools across the province reduce their energy use, save on their energy bills, and improve their lighting quality. Through this initiative, schools across Manitoba, including urban, rural, northern, and First Nation communities, can apply to receive funding for up to 100% of eligible LED lighting, lighting controls, and associated labour costs for energy-efficient lighting upgrades.
From February 13 to April 13, 2026, we’ll be accepting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from eligible applicants. Project selections will be communicated by May 15, 2026. Schools selected to move forward will then be invited to submit a full application.
Approved projects will be administered through our Business Lighting Program with enhanced incentives provided by the Manitoba Schools Lighting Initiative. Schools must receive official approval from us before purchasing any materials or starting any work.
KEY FACTS
Eligible projects
K–12 schools in Manitoba that are interested in pursuing an energy-efficient lighting retrofit through our Business Lighting Program are eligible. Projects must include the installation of lighting controls that meet the current adopted version of the Manitoba Energy Code for Buildings (MECB) and involve replacing inefficient lighting equipment with eligible LED lighting.
Eligible applicants
EOIs can be completed by a designated division or school representative, or a supplier acting on the school’s behalf.
Funding offers
We’ll cover up to 100% of reasonable lighting equipment and associated labour costs.
APPLICATION PROCESS
- Read the Business Lighting Program guide to ensure your proposed lighting equipment meets our eligibility requirements.
- Complete the EOI during the enrolment period. A project quote isn’t required at this stage but can be submitted if available.
- All EOIs will be reviewed and evaluated using a consistent scoring system.
- Schools selected through the EOI process will be invited to submit a Business Lighting Program application.
We’ll review and evaluate all EOIs submitted within the enrolment period. We’ll select projects based on factors such as expected energy reduction, extent of lighting replacement, project readiness, inclusion of lighting controls, no major infrastructure upgrades required, and regional diversity.
To learn more about our Manitoba Schools Lighting Initiative, check out our frequently asked questions.
