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Power your home — and your community
Funded by Natural Resources Canada and delivered by Hydro Ottawa Limited, GridFlex is a voluntary program in select areas of Kanata and Stittsville that rewards you for shifting electricity use during periods of high demand.
Connect your smart devices, help support a more reliable grid, and earn rewards—without disrupting your routine.
Why join GridFlex?
Earn rewards
Get rewarded for participating.
No effort required
Connect eligible devices and participate automatically - or take part manually through reducing your electricity usage during GridFlex events.
Support your community
Be part of an innovative project shaping the future of energy in Ottawa.
More reliable power
Helps reduce pressure on the grid during high demand periods.
How it works
Check your eligibility →
See if your home is in a participating area of Kanata or Stittsville.
Sign up and choose to participate in 1 of 2 ways
1) Automatic: Connect your smart thermostat, EV, or battery storage system OR
2) Manual: Participate in GridFlex events by shifting your usage when notified
Earn rewards
Receive rewards for enrolling and for participating throughout the program.
GridFlex rewards
Rewards depend on how you participate:
- Automatic (connected devices)
- Smart thermostats: A $75 device enrollment reward per device (up to 3) and a $20 annual reward per device.
- Electric vehicle (EV): A $75 device enrollment reward and a $20 annual reward
- Existing home battery storage system: A $500 system enrollment reward and a $250 annual reward.
- New home battery storage: Up to $5,000 toward an eligible new battery installation, calculated as $300/kWh of usable battery capacity and capped at 50 per cent of eligible project costs.
OR
- Manual (no devices required)
- A $25 program sign-up reward
- $1.50 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) reduced during events, based on your typical usage
GridFlex rewards
Rewards depend on how you participate:
- Automatic (devices)
- Smart thermostats: A $75 device enrollment reward per device (up to 3) and a $20 annual reward per device.
- Electric vehicle (EV): A $75 device enrollment reward and a $20 annual reward
- Existing battery storage (BESS): A $500 system enrollment reward and a $250 annual reward.
- New battery storage systems: Incentives for new installations coming soon. Fill out our contact form below for updates.
OR
- Manual (no devices required)
- A $25 program sign-up reward
- $1.50 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) reduced during events, based on your typical usage
What are GridFlex events?
GridFlex events are short, time-limited periods - typically on hot summer days - when electricity demand is highest.
During these events, your connected devices may automatically adjust slightly, or you can choose to reduce your usage manually. You stay in control at all times.
See GridFlex in action
Watch how GridFlex works and how easy it is to participate.
Ready to get started?
Join GridFlex today and start earning rewards while supporting your community.
GridFlex FAQs
- What is GridFlex?
GridFlex is a voluntary rewards program, funded by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and delivered by Hydro Ottawa, that helps reduce electricity use during periods of high demand. By participating, you can earn rewards while helping support a more reliable, efficient electricity system in your community. - How do I participate?
There are two ways to participate:
Automatic: Connect your eligible devices (such as a smart thermostat, electric vehicle, or battery storage system). During events, small temporary adjustments are made automatically to reduce electricity demand.
Manual: Receive notifications by email or text and choose how to reduce your electricity use during events. - Why should I join GridFlex?
GridFlex makes it easy to take part in shaping a smarter energy future. You can:
Earn rewards for reducing electricity use during high-demand periods.
Help improve grid reliability in your community.
Support Hydro Ottawa in learning how to better manage and plan for future energy needs.
- Who can participate in GridFlex?
GridFlex is currently available to residential customers with accounts in good standing in select areas of Kanata and Stittsville. Small businesses with accounts in good standing may also be eligible to enroll smart thermostats. - I am a renter. Can I participate?
Yes, renters can participate if they are the primary Hydro Ottawa account holder. Home battery storage systems are not eligible for renters due to installation requirements. - Can a Hydro Ottawa representative enroll me in GridFlex?
No. Hydro Ottawa representatives cannot complete enrollment on your behalf. You must register yourself online at gridflex.hydroottawa.com. Also note that enrollment is not automatic, even if you own an eligible device. - Why was my GridFlex registration not accepted?
GridFlex has specific eligibility requirements. Registrations are typically declined for one of the following reasons:- Geographic location: The program is currently limited to select areas of Kanata and Stittsville.
- Account mismatch: Your registration details must match your active Hydro Ottawa account exactly.
- Program conflicts: Devices cannot be enrolled in more than one demand response program at a time (i.e. Peak Perks, Rush Hour Rewards, Eco+, Community Energy Savings, etc).
- Which thermostats are eligible?
The program currently supports several pre-qualified models: Google Nest, ecobee, Honeywell, and Sensi. Enrollment is done either through the GridFlex program page or the manufacturer’s app. Which electric vehicles (EVs) are eligible?
Many electric vehicles with connected charging capabilities are supported through GridFlex.To participate, your vehicle must:
- Be connected through a supported integration
- Primarily charge at your home
Be linked to your Hydro Ottawa account
See a full list of supported vehicles and compatibility details here.
- Which battery systems are eligible?
At this time, Tesla Powerwall systems are eligible. Additional battery systems may be added as the program evolves. - What if my device is already enrolled in another program?
A single device (e.g., one specific thermostat or one specific EV) cannot be enrolled in more than one demand response program at a time. However, you can have different devices in your home enrolled in different programs. - Can I participate in GridFlex if I am already enrolled in Peak Perks?
If you’re already enrolled in Save on Energy’s Peak Perks Program there is nothing you need to change. You can stay enrolled in Peak Perks for your smart thermostat and still access GridFlex for our battery storage and electric vehicle offers. - Where can I find instructions to register my ecobee for GridFlex?
You can download the official Ecobee Enrollment PDF for a full walkthrough of the smartphone app registration process.
What rewards can I earn?
Rewards depend on how you participate:
Automatic (connected devices)
- Smart thermostats: A $75 device enrollment reward per device (up to 3) and a $20 annual reward per device.
- Electric vehicles (EVs): $75 sign-up reward and a $20 annual reward
- Existing home battery storage system: $500 enrollment reward and a $250 annual reward.
- New home battery storage: Up to $5,000 toward an eligible new battery installation, calculated at $300/kWh of usable battery capacity and capped at 50 per cent of eligible project costs.
Manual (no devices required)
- $25 enrollment reward
- $1.50 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) reduced during events, calculated against your typical usage. Event earnings accumulate across the season and are issued as a single virtual prepaid Mastercard after September 30th.
How do I participate in the Manual track?
During an event, you can choose how to reduce electricity use. For example:
- Delay using large appliances (e.g. dishwasher, laundry)
- Adjust your thermostat by a few degrees
- Reduce or delay hot water usage (e.g. showers or baths)
- Turn off non-essential lights and unplug electronics.
When and how will I receive my rewards?
- Sign-up rewards: Typically issued within 3 to 4 weeks after successful registration and/or device verification.
- Event and annual rewards: Issued after the season ends (after September 30). You should receive these within 3 to 4 weeks after the season closes. You can track your manual earnings throughout the summer via the GridFlex platform.
All rewards will be delivered in the form of a Virtual Prepaid Mastercard® to the email address associated with your GridFlex registration.
I signed up for GridFlex but can’t find my reward email. What should I do?
Before contacting support, check your inbox, including your spam or junk folders, for an email with the following details:
Sender: Hydro Ottawa GridFlex
Email: [email protected]
Subject: Your Hydro Ottawa GridFlex reward is hereIf you still can’t find your reward email, please fill out the GridFlex contact form and Hydro Ottawa’s support team will assist.
Can I track my contributions?
Yes. Your total rewards to date and Total kWh savings to date are displayed on the My Dashboard screen in the GridFlex portal. Please be aware that it may take up to two to three weeks for these figures to update.
Are there limits on rewards?
Yes. Customers are eligible for:
- One sign-up reward per device
- One annual reward per device, per season
- Re-enrolling the same device does not qualify for an additional sign-up reward.
How long is the virtual prepaid Mastercard valid?
The Virtual Prepaid Mastercard® is valid for 6 months from the date it is sent. If your card expires, you can request a new activation link from ChoiceDigital at [email protected].
What is a home battery storage system?
Home battery storage systems store electricity so it can be used later. Depending on the system, a battery can work with solar panels, operate on its own, and provide backup power during an outage.
Why might I want a home battery?
A home battery can give you more flexibility in how and when you use electricity. Depending on your system and setup, it may allow you to store electricity for later use, support your home during an outage, or work alongside solar generation.
Can I use a battery with solar — or without solar?
Yes. A battery can be installed with a new or existing solar system, or as a standalone battery system. Your electrical contractor can help determine what setup is right for your home.
Incentive
Who is eligible for the GridFlex home battery storage incentive?
The GridFlex home battery storage incentive for new installations is available to eligible Hydro Ottawa residential customers in select areas of Kanata and Stittsville who meet the program requirements. The system must also meet GridFlex and Hydro Ottawa connection requirements. Check your eligibility using our new home battery storage incentive eligibility checker.
How much is the GridFlex home battery storage incentive?
New home battery storage: Eligible customers can receive up to $5,000, calculated at $300 per kWh, toward the purchase and installation of a new eligible battery storage system.
Existing home battery storage system: Existing eligible Tesla Powerwall customers may receive a $500 enrollment reward, plus a $250 annual reward for participating in GridFlex.
New battery storage applicants are not eligible for the existing battery storage rewards and existing battery storage participants are not eligible for the new battery storage incentive.The GridFlex new home battery storage incentive is separate from the Home Renovation Savings program. HRSP battery incentives are only available when the battery is paired with a new rooftop solar PV system and the system meets HRSP requirements.
Can I also apply for the Home Renovation Savings program incentive?
You may be eligible for an incentive through the Home Renovation Savings program (HRSP) if you’re installing a new rooftop solar PV system paired with a new battery storage system and meet the program’s eligibility requirements.
HRSP-funded solar and battery systems must be designed for load displacement only. This means you cannot participate in a net metering agreement for a system that receives an HRSP incentive. You will need to choose between receiving the HRSP incentive and participating in net metering.
Check the Home Renovation Savings program website for current eligibility requirements and program details.
What battery systems qualify, and what if I want to install a second battery?
The GridFlex program currently supports Tesla Powerwall systems for new and existing battery installations. Other battery manufacturers are being evaluated for eligibility. New battery installations must meet GridFlex program requirements and receive the required Hydro Ottawa connection approvals.
If you already have an eligible battery participating in GridFlex and want to install a second battery, the second battery is not eligible for the new home battery storage incentive. Your original battery may continue to be eligible for the existing battery storage rewards, subject to program requirements.
Before you buy
What should I do before buying or installing a battery?
Before purchasing or installing a battery, you will need to submit a DER connection application (Service Request Form) to Hydro Ottawa. Tell us what you’re proposing to install or modify, including any existing DER equipment at your home. We’ll review your application and determine the requirements for safely connecting your proposed system to the grid.
Have the following information ready when you apply:
- A quote from a qualified contractor
- A close-up photo of the meter and meter base, clearly showing the meter ID number and wiring conduit entering and exiting the meter.
- A photo showing the entire side of the structure where the meter is located.
- A photo of the main breaker on the electrical panel showing the service size.
- A single-line diagram of the proposed system
- A completed Micro-Distributed Energy Resources (DER) form
Do not purchase or install your equipment until you have received the required connection requirements for your project.
Who installs my battery?
Your battery must be installed by a licensed electrical contractor. After installation, the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) must inspect and approve the installation before it can be connected to the grid.
Participation
What happens after I apply for the GridFlex home battery storage incentive?
Once you submit your DER connection application (Service Request form), Hydro Ottawa will confirm your eligibility and provide next steps for participating in GridFlex. Your battery installation must also complete the required Hydro Ottawa connection process and ESA inspection before it can be connected to the grid.
For a step-by-step overview of the process, download our [Your roadmap to incentives: GridFlex new home battery storage guide].
How does GridFlex use my battery?
If you participate in GridFlex, your battery may be called on during brief, time-limited events when electricity demand is high. Depending on your setup, your battery may charge ahead of an event and temporarily discharge during the event.
- When do GridFlex events occur?
Events typically occur on non-holiday weekdays between June 1 and September 30, usually between 12:00 PM and 9:00 PM. - How will I know an event is happening?
You will be notified by email or text before an event begins (through the contact info in your Hydro Ottawa MyAccount) typically at least 24 hours in advance. Some events may be scheduled on shorter notice. - What happens during an event?
Automatic track:
Your enrolled devices may make small, temporary adjustments (such as adjusting your thermostat or shifting EV charging).
Manual track:
You choose how to reduce your electricity use during an event. - What if I don’t participate in an event?
Participating is always optional. If you choose not to participate, there is no penalty, but you may not earn rewards for that event. - Do I lose control of my home or devices?
No, you are always in control. You can override any automatic device adjustment or choose not to take action at any time. - Can I participate in both the Automatic and Manual track?
To ensure accurate measurement, you can only participate in one track at a time. If you have a supported device, we recommend the Automatic track for a “hands-off” experience. - Can I switch between Automatic and Manual track?
If you would like to switch, please contact customer support. - Do I need a professional to install my equipment?
It depends on the equipment type and your program track:
Thermostats, EVs & Manual Track: No. DIY installation is sufficient for thermostats and electric vehicles. If you are participating in the Manual track, simply use your existing appliances and devices.
Home battery storage systems: Yes. Home battery storage installations require a licensed electrical contractor and grid approval.
- Can I choose how I receive event notifications?
Yes. You can choose to receive event notifications by email or SMS (text message) through your GridFlex settings. This can be done in the Profile screen in the GridFlex portal.
By default, event notifications are sent by email. If you would like to receive SMS notifications, you must enable this option and provide a mobile phone number. - Do I need to provide a mobile phone number to participate?
No, a mobile phone number is not required to participate in GridFlex.
However, if you would like to receive SMS notifications for events, you will need to provide a mobile phone number and opt in to text notifications. - Can I choose my preferred language for communications?
Yes. GridFlex communications are available in English and French.
The default language is English. If you update your language preference in your GridFlex account settings, your future communications will be sent in your selected language.
- What happens if I move?
GridFlex participation is tied to your home’s electricity meter. If you move, you will be automatically unenrolled from the program for your previous address. You may be eligible to enroll again at your new address if it is within the program area. - What if I no longer want to participate in the program?
Participation is entirely voluntary. If you decide the program isn’t right for you, please submit a form request to de-enroll from the program. - Can I re-enroll after leaving the program?
Yes, you can re-enroll at any time if you remain eligible. However, to ensure your account and devices are set up correctly for a second time, you will need to contact our customer support team at 1-844-417-3482 to complete the process.
- What data is collected?
Hydro Ottawa only collects limited data from your devices (such as availability and energy use) to manage events and calculate rewards. - How is my data used?
Your data is used only for program operation and is protected under Hydro Ottawa’s privacy standards. - What if my device is offline during an event?
If your device is not connected or available during an event, it may not participate, and you may not earn rewards for that event. - What if I have an issue during enrollment or an event?
If you need help, our dedicated support team is available to assist you. You can reach us by calling 1-844-417-3482 or submit our contact form.
Terms and conditions
Review the full GridFlex terms and conditions to understand program details, eligibility requirements, and participation guidelines.