Insights

Utility Rebates FAQ: Rebates for Commercial Buildings

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If you’re looking to save on energy costs and increase your building’s sustainability, utility companies may be able to help. That’s because many of these companies offer a variety of rebates and incentives for energy-efficient upgrades. Specifically, there are rebates available for commercial buildings that want to install LED lighting, lighting controls, building controls, HVAC systems, and building insulation. To learn more about these rebates and how they can benefit your business, be sure to check out the Utility Rebates FAQ: Rebates for Commercial Buildings. By taking advantage of these offers, you’ll not only make important energy-saving upgrades but also lower your overall operating costs.

Q: Does my utility company offer commercial utility rebates?

A: Commercial Utility Rebates for installing energy efficient equipment are offered by most electric utility companies, though eligibility and what is covered varies by each individual utility company. You can check the RSIREUSA website for more information or contact Energywise Solutions today to get a free assessment of your potential commercial utility rebates.

Q: How much money are the utility companies offering in commercial utility rebates?

A: Commercial Utility Rebates come in all shapes and sizes, and each utility company has a different scale that they use to determine the final rebate amount. We have seen rebates that range from 5%-40% of the cost of equipment you are installing.

Q: Which documents/information do I need for the rebate application?

A: We will need your W-9 for your business, a utility bill or account number if the project is a remodel or retrofit and the address and contact information where you would like the rebate check to be mailed.

Q: What type of products are rebate eligible?

A: Each Utility Company has their own set of Eligible Products. Most often HVAC, LED Lighting, Lighting Controls and sometimes EV Chargers will be eligible for a cash rebate. Consumers may be surprised to learn that not every LED lamp or fixture qualifies for an incentive. Most incentive programs have technical requirements that must be met to qualify for the rebate. Usually, for lighting projects, it boils down to whether the product is qualified on the Design Light Consortium (DLC) Product list or the Energy Star Certified List. Energywise Solutions can assess your individual project and utility company combination and determine which products are eligible for rebates.

Q: Are utility incentives available for new construction or are they just for upgrades? 

A: Each utility company has different Energy Efficiency Programs. Some only cover retrofits and remodel projects, and others also include coverage for new construction. Contact Energywise Solutions to find out if your project is eligible for New Construction rebates.

Q: Is the rebate process difficult and time consuming?

A: Energywise Solutions will take care of filing all of the paperwork required. The only things you will need to supply is the W-9, the account number if it is not a new construction project and your contact information. Most of the programs strive to make the rebate process easy. Rebate programs differ significantly from utility to utility and the level of difficulty in applying for them depends on the program, but you don’t have to worry about that as Energywise Solutions will take care of the processing of the application from start to finish.

Q:  Do utility rebates change often? 

A: Yes, these rebate programs change all of the time for many different reasons. Technology, market dynamics, and funding are just a few of the reasons we’ve seen rebates change over the years. Energywise Solutions is up to date on changes as they happen.

Q: Are there different types of commercial utility rebates for lighting? 

A: Yes, there are two main types of rebates that utilities offer to incentivize facility lighting upgrades. Those rebates are called prescriptive and custom rebates. Prescriptive Rebates are based on installing approved energy-efficient equipment. These incentives are predetermined dollar amounts that generally don’t require pre-approval unless the incentive is over a specific amount. They are usually applied for after installation although sometimes they do require pre-approval. Custom utility rebates vary greatly between utility programs but are usually based solely on the amount of energy that is saved. These energy savings must be measured and verified during pre-installation and post-installation by the utility.

Q: When will I receive my rebate check?

A: Each utility company is different but it will typically take 2-6 weeks from the submission of the final paperwork to receive your rebate check.

Q: Does my parking lot lighting also qualify for rebates?

A: In many cases outdoor lighting, including LED parking lot lighting, LED wall packs, outdoor LED canopy lighting, and other types of LED outdoor lighting are eligible for utility rebates.  Energywise Solutions can assess your individual project and utility company combination and determine which products are eligible for rebates.

Exploring the Steps Involved in the Commercial Utility Rebate Application Process

The commercial utility rebate application process can seem like a daunting task, but it is a crucial step to take advantage of the incentives offered to businesses that reduce their energy consumption. To make the process manageable, it is important to understand the steps involved, the necessary documentation, and the expected timeframe for receiving the rebate.

The first step in the process is to determine if your business is eligible for the rebate by checking the criteria set forth by your local utility company. Next, gather all the necessary documentation, including proof of energy efficiency upgrades and a copy of your utility bill. It is advisable to thoroughly review the application form to ensure all the required information is included. Once the application is complete, submit it to your utility company and wait for a response. The review process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, so be patient and keep track of the status of your application.

Understand the Necessary Documentation and Timeframe for Receiving the Commercial Utility Rebate

One of the key components of the commercial utility rebate application process is the necessary documentation. This documentation serves as proof of your energy efficiency upgrades and helps the utility company assess your eligibility for the rebate. Common documentation required includes proof of purchase, installation, and operation of energy-efficient equipment, as well as a copy of your utility bill.

It is important to note that the timeframe for receiving the rebate can vary depending on the utility company and the complexity of your application. On average, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for the utility company to review your application and provide a response. However, it is important to keep track of the status of your application and follow up with the utility company if necessary. By following the steps involved, providing the necessary documentation, and being patient, you can successfully receive the commercial utility rebate and start reaping the benefits of reducing your energy consumption.

Conclusion

Many utility companies are offering rebates and incentives for energy-efficient upgrades to commercial building owners. The rebates cover a range of equipment, such as LED lighting and HVAC systems, and vary in amount and eligibility depending on each individual utility company. The process of applying for the rebates can be made easier with the help of Energywise Solutions, who will take care of the paperwork and provide information on the most current rebate programs. The rebate check is typically received within 2-6 weeks after the submission of the final paperwork. Outdoor lighting, including LED parking lot lighting, may also be eligible for rebates. 

Contact Energywise Solutions today to find out if your business is eligible for commercial utility rebates.

EnergyWise Solutions works with architects, engineers, business owners, and contractors to create exceptional spaces with energy-efficient LED lighting solutions, lighting controls, and automated building controls. We support our clients with services that include design, rebate administration, and negotiated utility discounts to guarantee successful outcomes and maximize savings. Our network includes trusted manufacturers of wireless control components and wireless control systems, and our team is experienced in designing, start-up, and commissioning custom energy solutions and control systems for all buildings.

Scott Van Kerkhove is the CEO of Energywise and writes on topics and issues surrounding the lighting and controls industry, energy management, profitability and sustainability. Find me on LinkedIn – Author: Scott Van Kerkhove