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Getting Started: Identifying Projects
Getting Started With Few Hassles
As the saying goes, "time is money" and that can be particularly true for small businesses. However, not taking time (to save energy) can mean big money — lost.
Reduction in daily energy costs and monthly utility bills for the lifetime of your business can make it well worth the time needed to pursue effective-efficiency upgrades. Here are some strategies to jump-start your energy savings:
- Ask your utility if they offer free or inexpensive energy audits and/or rebates for energy-efficiency upgrades. A good place to start is the Energy Crossroads
— a consolidated listing, by state, of many of the utility energy-efficiency programs available for small businesses. Small manufacturers who are interested in a facility audit may also want to check out the following: - DOE: Industrial Assessment Centers (IAC)
- Department of Commerce's National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)
- Invite contractors to your facility to suggest upgrades and provide free estimates.
- Contract with an energy professional to coordinate and manage your project.
- Leverage your time by drawing on the expertise of ENERGY STAR by visiting Small Business.
