FAQs

There’s a reason we’re “free” to nonprofits. The Conservation Improvement Program (CIP), a collaboration involving Minnesota Utility Ratepayers, the MN Department of Commerce (Division of Energy Resources), Xcel Energy and CenterPoint Energy, provides funding to EnerChange that allows us to provide our services at no cost to our clients.

We look at your energy usage history and then take a look at your building - HVAC systems, lighting, etc., identifying opportunities to save energy. We then propose measures and work with you to establish implementation priorities that save you money and energy.

Once we get your permission to access your energy usage data we can schedule and conduct an assessment at your facility that typically takes 2 – 3 hours. Approximately 2 weeks later, we will provide you with a Report detailing your options. From that point, we work with you on implementation of the recommended efficiency measures.

Really nothing except agreeing to allow us into the process. Once you give us permission to access your usage history, we take it from there. One of the most important things our clients appreciate is that we take the hassle out of the process for you. All you need to do is make certain decisions we present to you.

Yes. We provide a cafeteria of financing options, understanding that most nonprofits avoid debt financing.

Absolutely, and on more than one level. 1) Our clients are currently averaging savings approaching $4,000 annually. That means that you’re reducing dollars going out the door as “expenses” and increasing dollars available for program issues. 2) Often lost in this discussion is that these savings continue into perpetuity – they’re not just one-year savings. 3) You will be doing the environment a great service as well, contributing to a significant reduction of carbon emissions in the process. 4) Everyone who is involved in the process learns valuable lessons that can be applied in other areas of their lives. Your Board Members, your management team, your staff, along with the family members at all those levels create a highly beneficial ripple effect that will be a source of great pride.me.