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A Free Tool for Assessing the Energy Efficiency of Your Business

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Small businesses come in a variety of sizes and types in Vermont. So, it is no wonder that there is no “one-size fits all” solution for energy savings when it comes to how Vermonters make a living. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, “over half of the U.S. workforce either owns or works for a small business.” It’s clear that small businesses, like yours, power our economy. And your business needs power to keep the lights on, to heat and cool, and more. And, chances are you are paying for more energy than you need to get the job done.

My job as a small business account manager at Efficiency Vermont takes me all over the state, meeting business owners and talking to them about energy use. Most small business owners want to know how they can reduce their energy bills. Many are not aware that they can also improve working conditions and the look of their business with energy efficiency solutions. What I offer is a fresh pair of eyes on the processes and the equipment used at each business. Plus, I have the experience of over 250 energy walk-throughs a year. There’s not much I haven’t seen, and in turn I’ve been able to help business owners troubleshoot great ways to make changes without breaking the bank.

 

What is a business energy walk-through?

A business energy walk-through is conducted by an energy expert. Efficiency Vermont offers them at no charge, making it a free and easy way to learn how your facility uses energy. Once you have a complete assessment, your energy expert can help you find ways to use less energy and save money.

Business energy walk-throughs:

  • Include a visual review of your property to identify potential energy savings
  • Provide a written report, including suggestions to increase energy efficiency, and cost estimates for recommended energy-saving measures
  • Include a cost/benefit analysis and predicted payback period for potential energy upgrades
  • Include recommendations for financing and contractors that can do the work

The walk-through results can help you determine which improvements will work best to reduce your energy bill, as well as improve comfort and productivity.

 

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Financing puts energy savings within reach

Vermont businesses have a simple way get help paying for energy efficiency projects. Efficiency Vermont offers the Business Energy Loan (BEL), which combines cash-flow analysis from Efficiency Vermont, low-interest rates, and other attractive loan features. The loan, currently offered through lending partner, VSECU, is simple and easy to access.

Most BEL payments are the same as or less than the amount of money saved on your energy bills each month. The funds are often available for projects in 1-2 business days! With a BEL, there’s no upfront investment. Combine a business energy walk-through with a BEL and your business can begin to reap savings and other benefits, like improved indoor comfort, increased worker productivity, and lower operating costs.

 

Are you ready to get started? Contact the Efficiency Vermont team at (888) 921-5990 or info@efficiencyvermont.com to request a business energy audits with one of our experts.

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About Mark Kelley

Mark Kelley is an Efficiency Vermont Account Manager working to help small and mid-sized businesses and non-profits throughout central and northern Vermont reduce energy usage and improve their buildings and operations.
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