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5 ways your business can save on energy

Jessie

Jessie Hendrix
Energy Efficiency Administrative Assistant

 

Energy efficient upgrades can have significant savings to a businesses’ operating costs in the long run, but the upfront purchase and installation cost is expensive. Fortunately, there are some financial programs available to help. See which one may be right for you below and call Energy Smart with any questions: 651.292.3917.

1. Business Energy Efficiency Grant with Energy Smart

energy smart

The Business Energy Efficiency Grant is for Minnesota businesses looking to upgrade to energy efficiency equipment. For LED lighting projects, the grant matches 50% of the utility rebate. For other upgrades, like HVAC or kitchen equipment, the grant matches 300% of the utility rebate. For businesses in the environmental justice area higher matches are offered. Learn more and apply here

  • Project must qualify for a utility rebate
  • Must apply before project begins
     

 


 

2. Minneapolis Green Cost Share

green business

For businesses located in Minneapolis, this program will cover between 20-40% of energy efficiency project total costs up to a certain amount. Learn more here. You can apply through Energy Smart at any time.

  • In Minneapolis
  • Must apply before project begins
  • Project must qualify for an Xcel or CenterPoint rebate
     

 


 

3. MinnPACE Financing (Property Assessed Clean Energy)

Minnpace

Invest in energy efficiency projects with no upfront costs using MinnPACE. MinnPACE will pay 100% of the upfront project cost. Payments are then rolled into the building owner's property taxes. Learn more here.

  • Cash positive for business owners
  • Energy savings exceed the payment obligation
  • County or town must have a Joint Powers Agreement with MinnPACE
     

 


 

4. Trillion BTU Loan Program

SPPA

Run by the St. Paul Port Authority, this loan program uses federal stimulus money to provide up to 100% of the project financing. The payment schedule is set up so that the monthly energy savings exceeds the payment obligation. Learn more here

  • Cash positive for business owners
  • Energy savings exceed the payment obligation

 


 

5. Center for Energy and the Environment Loan Program

CEE

This loan program is for businesses making energy efficiency improvements. The loan amount can be up to $100,000 with 5- or 10-year terms are available. Learn more here.

  • For all businesses and nonprofits in Minnesota
  • Loan amounts up to $100,000
  • Loan terms up to 10 years
Energy smart

Energy Smart promotes efficiency, identifies savings

Energy is a major operating expense for businesses of all types and sizes. Energy Smart is here to guide you through the steps to find energy and cost saving opportunities. Click below to schedule an on-site or virtual energy consultation.