Partnering in Energy Solutions

Partnering in energy solutions

Partnering in Energy Solutions (PIES) is a program that helps business owners be able to get energy-efficient upgrades. It allows the business owner to get up to $25,000 interest free for the upgrade to be done and pay it monthly on their utility bill. Energy Solutions Partners (ESPs) will work with the customer and the utility to help complete the work and guide the customer. 


WHAT IS AN ESP AND WHAT DO THEY DO?

An Energy Solutions Partner (ESP) is a contractor who is agrees to do required work to a certain standard as stated by the utility. The ESP works with the utility company to help inform business customers of this financing opportunity when they feel it would be a good fit. ESPs will do the following:

  • Analyze current and future energy use and needs
  • Propose cost-cutting changes, as well as energy efficient upgrades to equipment
  • Provide payback analysis of suggested improvements
  • Assist with the purchase and/or implementation of suggested improvements
  • List and apply for all available AU Conserve and Save rebates
  • Assist with applying for AU financing on energy efficient project - 0% interest, up to $25,000 for qualified customers


WHAT DOES THE CUSTOMER DO?

When a customer expresses interest in the program, we partner with them to connect them with an ESP who can help them. Both AU and the ESP will work together to help you every step of the way, when it comes to the install and paperwork. 


HOW DOES FINANCING WORK?

Financing may be available for qualifying projects.  To qualify for financing, a project must be completed by an ESP and must qualify for a Conserve & Save rebate.  This financing allows you to pay for the project on your bill over a one- or two-year period at 0% interest.  There is an deposit of $300 for financing $5,000 or less and $500 for financing over $5,000.  The maximum loan amount is $25,000.


WHAT PROJECTS QUALIFY FOR THE PROGRAM?

  • Central Chillers
  • Compressed Air Equipment
  • Cooling Equipment
  • Food Service Equipment
  • Guest Room Energy Management Systems
  • Heat Pumps (Air Source, Ground Source, or Water Source)
  • Lighting
  • Motors
  • Refrigeration
  • Retrocommissioning
  • Variable Speed Drives
  • Custom Rebates (with pre-approval)


MORE INFORMATION:

Partnering In Energy Solutions Brochure

PIES Financing Application

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eNERGY SOLUTIONS PartnerS:

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Thank you to all of our Energy Solutions Partners! If you would like to be an ESP, please contact Melissa Swenson, Communications & Energy Services Manager, at 507-433-8886.