At a time when companies are pinching pennies in order to weather the recession, new energy management programs are offering a lifeline by giving them the opportunity to earn incentives in exchange for permanent energy reductions through energy-related projects and upgrades.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), for example, is now offering programs that will pay facilities for projects that qualify, including lighting retrofits, HVAC replacements and upgrades, premium efficiency motor upgrades, variable frequency drive installations, electric chiller/steam chiller replacements and upgrades, commercial refrigeration replacements and upgrades, commercial kitchen equipment and washer replacements and upgrades, and new generator installations, cogeneration/combined heat and power (CHP) systems, and generator upgrade projects. For instance, these programs enable HVAC and service contractors to introduce incentive payments for HVAC replacements and upgrades that they are working on, which could help clients cover the cost of regular maintenance or help fund a new HVAC project or upgrade.

Energy management companies like CPower, one of the oldest and most experienced companies in the industry, are facilitating participation in these programs throughout the project lifecycle by providing clients with administrative support, ranging from project management and paperwork to navigating the complexities of the different incentive programs and rules, through payment processing. By working with an energy management firm, buildings and facilities can ensure they are receiving the highest incentive payments available for their energy efficiency projects and upgrades.

Thus far, companies around the state have been able to earn significant dollars as a result of their participation - ranging from pre-qualified incentives up to $30,000 and performance-based incentives for large-scale energy efficiency projects subject to M&V requirements. For facilities looking to run more sustainable operations and to become more environmentally conscious, now is the time to embark on this mission - and earn extra revenue while doing it.

Publication date: 12/14/2009