SUSTAINABLE ENDEAVORS
Stories & Solutions
FOR THE PLANET
ENERGY AUDITS
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MnTAP: A guide for collecting & analyzing data around Air, Energy, Waste & Water. Within Energy, there is a focus on compressed air, refrigeration, lighting, motors, processed heat, and steam systems.
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Xcel Audits: Free audit and consulting support, results in incentive-based solutions
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EnergySmart: MN Chamber of Commerce offers assessment, training, grants and connections to rebates
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EnerChange: Free energy assessment for non-profits & churches
energize saint paul
Do you own or manage a commercial or multi-family building 50,000 square feet and larger? The City of Saint Paul has a new Energy Benchmarking ordinance effective June 1, which includes an ongoing review of building energy and water use, over time and relative to peers. It allows owners and occupants to understand their building’s energy and water performance and identify opportunities to cut waste. Building owners/operators can use the free online tool, ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager. The Race to Reduce program assists those who choose the full disclosure pathway by providing opportunities to save energy and money through operational changes, development of energy management plans, and rebates and funding options. Participants are also recognized for their efforts through press releases and ceremonies. Learn more at https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/mayors-office/energize-saint-paul
Learn more about ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager, the free online platform to measure and compare your energy, water, and greenhouse gas output.
alternative energy programs
grants
Minnesota Chamber of Commerce provides up to $3,000 for business owners to make efficiency projects possible through their Business Energy Efficiency Grant Program.
LOAN PROGRAMs
The Rental Rehab Loan Program provides no-interest loans to landlords committed to preserving affordable rental housing. Qualified landlords can receive up to $40,000 to make health, safety, accessibility, energy-efficient and/or curb appeal upgrades to their rental properties.
Loans can be used for:
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Lead-based paint corrections;
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Tree trimming related to structural interference;
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Landscaping, including grading work;
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Window or roof replacement;
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HVAC and electrical upgrades; and/or,
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Additional basic and necessary improvements for deferred maintenance activities, health and safety, habitability, energy efficiency, accessibility, livability and/or curb appeal.
Commercial Energy Efficiency Loan Program
The CEE Commercial Energy Efficiency Loan Program provides financing to businesses making cost effective energy efficiency improvements.
The Public Entity Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Feasibility Study Loan Program is offered through the MN Department of Commerce for local government or school systems to use on energy audits or renewable energy feasibility studies through the Local Energy Efficiency Program (LEEP) or Guaranteed Energy Savings Program (GESP).
The Trillion BTU program is a partnership between the Saint Paul Port Authority, Xcel Energy, the Center for Energy and Environment (CEE), the Minnesota Legislature and the U.S. Department of Energy. Identify cost cuts with an Xcel Energy energy audits and CEE engineering studies, choose a project and contractor, rebate with Xcel Energy, and get up to 100% financing through the SPPA. The goal is to establish a positive cash flow payment schedule with energy savings exceeding the payment obligation.
MinnPACE is a fit for most industries including farms, commercial office buildings, nonprofit organizations (including places of worship), and multi-tenant buildings.
Common investments include solar panels, HVAC systems, lighting, motors, and more.
Commercial building owners evaluate and select projects that reduce energy costs. MinnPACE provides financing directly to the building owner.
MCPA Small Business Environmental Improvement Loan - The MPCA provides loans at zero-percent interest to small businesses for capital equipment purchases that help the company meet or exceed environmental regulations, and costs associated with the investigation and cleanup of contaminated sites. Common benefits include a healthier workplace, lower waste disposal bills, and reduced regulatory obligations.