Energy Smart

At Energy Smart, our efficiency specialists work with business owners across the state of Minnesota to help them find ways to reduce their energy, save on utilities, and find grants that make energy-efficient upgrades more affordable. Find out how we can help you save by visiting MNEnergySmart.org. #energysmart #mnenergysmart #mncc #goodclimatenews #wastereduction #minnesotaowned #smallbusiness #twincities #minnesota #energyefficiency

Adjust your HVAC system based on building occupancy. This will ensure that your system is efficient, and its occupants are comfortable. Here’s how to make your system work smarter, not harder: 🌡️Program your thermostat 🏢Add zones to your system 💡Install occupancy sensors 🔧Maintain your system 👩🏫Educate occupants By tailoring your HVAC system to how your space is used, you can improve comfort, save energy, and reduce costs. Energy Smart is always available to get you started!

The Gammelgården Museum of Scandia has recently completed a lighting upgrade, boosting both visitor experience and energy efficiency. The installation of new LED lights throughout their exhibits has dramatically improved illumination, leading some visitors to ask if the museum had been repainted! "We have had long-time supporters and visitors comment that they never noticed paintings and artwork prior to the new lights," said Ann Rinkenberger, Gammelgården Museum's Director. "Since the new LED lights have been installed, we have not had any visitors ask us to turn on the lights. In fact, they are spending more time looking at and enjoying the exhibits and artwork." LED lights consume significantly less energy than older lighting systems. The museum is projected to save $2,820 annually on electricity costs. This lighting upgrade is just the first step in Gammelgården Museum's commitment to energy efficiency. The museum is continuing its efforts by installing high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment soon.

Two things to remember: 1. Grant funding usually needs to be applied for BEFORE beginning project work. 2. Grant funding is received after the project is completed and invoiced. Advance payment or pre-funding for energy efficiency projects is not common. The takeaway: Plan ahead for your efficient equipment upgrades to be able to take maximum advantage of the available grant funding. Energy Smart knows the local grant landscape and can point you in the right direction.

Curious about what financial support is available for your commercial (or residential) energy efficiency projects? The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) provides a convenient and filterable list of the local, state and federal programs available to you. Contact Energy Smart with questions about utility rebate eligibility. Learn what programs and incentives you are eligible for at: https://ow.ly/roH450Sq3Aw

As temperatures climb, your AC works overtime to keep your business cool. Ceiling fans can be an effective strategy to reduce your cooling expenses. To maximize your savings, follow these tips: 🔄 Adjust the fan's direction to counterclockwise in summer. This helps to circulate the cooled air from the ceiling and AC throughout the space. 🌬️Turn ceiling fans off when the space is unoccupied. Ceiling fans create a wind chill effect which makes people feel cooler but does not change the actual air temperature. 🧹 Clean fan blades regularly. Get out the ladder or scissor lifts and keep the blades clean. 🏃♂️ For large spaces like warehouses, consider a high-volume low-speed fan.

📊💡 Did you know that your window treatments can be a game-changer for your energy bills? Invest in window solutions like low-E coatings or cellular shades to regulate temperature and reduce heating and cooling costs. Adding low-E film to your windows costs about 50-70% less than installing a new window and will reduce heat gain by 30-50%. Plus, you can reduce glare and increase privacy! #EnergyEfficiency #WindowTreatments #SustainableBusiness #Energy Smart

Whether you have a dedicated maintenance team or handle the upkeep yourself, these essential building maintenance tasks will ensure peak energy efficiency this summer. Screenshot this list and get started – why delay savings? Tackle your equipment maintenance today! Have questions? Get in touch with Energy Smart.

Foodist Films, a solar-powered food videography and photography agency established in 2016, bought a 115-year-old building in Saint Paul in late 2022. Early in the renovation, Energy Smart connected with them through Xcel Energy’s Business Solutions Center for an energy consultation. Energy Smart identified, and applied for, $2,445 worth of utility rebates for a boiler tune-up and mini-split heat pump installation. Foodist Films is now saving over 3,939 kWh and 113 Dth annually, cutting $1,170 from their yearly energy costs. Their commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability is a great example for all—congratulations to Foodist Films!

This new state funded program is focused on distributing grant funding for working capital and loans for site acquisition or building construction. This is a competitive program so get prepared to apply soon! Eligible businesses: • Active Minnesota businesses with two years of state and federal tax returns • Gross annual revenue of less than $750,000 for the grant program or less than $1,000,000 for the loan program • Business located in specific geographic areas Learn more and see the eligibility map at: https://mnpromiseact.org/