Businesses and organizations can get City funding for energy efficiency investments
Save on energy bills, reduce air pollution
The Green Business Energy Efficiency Cost Share Program helps businesses pay for natural gas and electric energy efficiency investments in their properties. There is a clear connection between pollution from energy used, environmental impacts and health in communities. The funds for the program come from pollution control fees that businesses pay to the City. Funding is limited; all projects are first come, first served.
- Large energy efficiency improvements – 20 percent of project cost up to $20,000. Any building that benchmarks its energy use through the City’s Energy Benchmarking Program may apply. Businesses or organizations can voluntarily participate in that program. Applications are found here or by contacting MPLSEnergyStar@minneapolismn.gov. The application deadline is May 19 (early submissions are recommended).
- Small energy efficiency improvements – 20 percent of project cost up to $2,500. More information and applications are found here or by contacting MPLSEnergyStar@minneapolismn.gov. The application deadline is Oct. 20 (early submissions are recommended).
In less than a year, 25 businesses have already applied for the Green Business Cost Share Energy Efficiency Program. Their projects have resulted in an annual 2.75 million kWh of electricity savings, 14,000 therms of natural gas savings and 1.03 million gallons of water reduced. These organizations are saving an estimated $250,000 annually total.
More resources
These programs may be combined with a 2 percent loan for equipment and building improvements through the City’s small business loan program.
Projects must also qualify for rebates from Xcel Energy and/or CenterPoint Energy.
Published Apr 18, 2017
