Quebec Allocates $40 Million to Expand Commercial Electric Greenhouses for Winter Food Autonomy

QUEBEC CITY, QC — Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food André Lamontagne announced the release of $40 million under the Greenhouse Development Strategy, delivering direct capital subsidies to 80 commercial vegetable and fruit greenhouse growers across the Montérégie, Chaudière-Appalaches, and Laurentides regions.

Tripling Domestic Winter Fresh Produce Production

The funding packages provide 50% state matching grants to install high-efficiency horticultural LED spectrum lighting, biomass and geothermal thermal heat pumps, and automated computerized environmental climate controls, allowing Quebec growers to harvest fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and strawberries year-round. Utilizing Hydro-Québec’s preferential agricultural clean electricity rates (Rate LG), the program increases domestic fresh winter vegetable market share from 30% to 60%, insulating consumers from volatile import costs.

Minister Lamontagne stated that expanding electric greenhouse cultivation strengthens Quebec's food autonomy and delivers fresh, locally grown produce to family dinner tables throughout the winter months.

Agricultural Producers Union and Horticultural Stances

Union des producteurs agricoles (UPA) strongly commended the capital grants, citing substantial reductions in greenhouse heating operating costs.

Greenhouse vegetable growers praised the preferential Hydro-Québec electricity rates for ensuring year-round economic viability.

Grant Application Window

Agricultural greenhouse operators can submit equipment funding applications through MAPAQ through November 15, 2026.