This document provides an overview of navigating electric utility provider energy efficiency incentive programs. It notes that billions of dollars are available through these programs annually in the US. There are over 1,000 programs nationwide that offer incentives for a variety of energy efficiency measures for projects of all sizes. However, the document cautions that there are some common pitfalls to avoid like using non-approved products, calculation errors, starting projects before approval, not reading eligibility requirements carefully, and applying for funds after they have been depleted. It provides tips for successfully completing an incentivized energy efficiency project from start to finish.
4. In 2008, there was approximately $3.1 billion in total U.S.
dollars for energy efficiency programs.
The figures are expected to more than double in coming
years, with $7.4 billion to $12.4 billion available by 2020.
http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/A-Boom-in-Utility-Rebates-Drives-LED-Lighting
6. There are 1136
Energy Efficiency
Incentive
Programs
available
nationwide in 2014
http://www.dsireusa.org/summarytables/finee.cfm
7. Research the
programs available
in your area
Programs constantly change and have
numerous energy efficiency measures
available for projects in all shapes and
sizes
http://www.dsireusa.org
9. Electric utility companies
CHARGE A FEE on power bills
to fund Energy Efficiency
Programs. In Texas, its
called Energy Efficiency
Cost Recovery Factor
In other words, YOU ARE
PAYING FOR SOMEONE
ELSE to implement energy
efficiency measures if you
don’t take advantage of the
incentive programs.
11. What Energy
Efficiency Measures
Qualify?
Qualifying Energy Conservation Measures
(ECM) depend on:
- the area of the country
- new technologies
- utility savings goals
- success of prior programs
- fuel sources
12. How much of the
total project
material costs do
incentives pay?
Sorry to be so evasive but....
…the answer truly depends on the program goals, the installed measures, and
the project scope. Some programs pay for everything up to100%, others pay
nominal costs (between 20%-30%). Researching your options is the key.
25. 3)False starts will
usually get you
disqualified
It’s best not to start removing
old equipment UNTIL you
have WRITTEN confirmation
of reservation of funds from
the program administrator.
26. 4) NOT Reading
the fine print of your
supply contract
Make sure your company is
the one receiving the
incentive check. Some
suppliers have been known to
hide the details of where the
incentive money goes.