CenterPoint Energy and Xcel Energy have joined forces to offer an incentive-based Multi-Family Building Efficiency program in Minnesota. Until now, the two utilities have not had a program that jointly addresses energy challenges in multi-family properties.
About program
An Energy Programs Consortium study estimated that 85 percent of multi-family units were built before 1990, showing there is room for substantial savings—anywhere from 30 to 75 percent—as a result of energy-efficiency improvements.*
Multi-family building owners aiming to cut energy costs may be focusing on improvements to common areas—entrances, lobbies, etc. With so many opportunities throughout the whole building including resident units, CenterPoint Energy and Xcel Energy have introduced the Multi-Family Building Efficiency program to help building owners find more untapped savings.
The Multi-Family Building Efficiency program is unique. Participants receive a free energy audit, direct-install, and an incentive payout for meeting their energy saving goals. After receiving a free, whole-building energy audit, common areas and tenant units will receive energy saving measures installed—all free of charge. Once equipment improvements are identified, energy advisors are available to guide participants through the energy upgrade process.
Is your building ideal for this program?
To be eligible, your building must receive electricity from Xcel Energy and natural gas from CenterPoint Energy or Xcel Energy, have a common entrance and common areas, and have in-unit kitchens. Buildings positioned to invest in whole-building energy efficiency are the best candidates for this program.
What makes the Multi-Family Building Efficiency program so unique?
- It’s a whole-building approach to energy savings delivered through an easy, one-stop resource.
- It starts with energy usage data for the whole-building, residents and common spaces to create a baseline for the energy savings incentive.
- Participants receive a free whole-building energy audit and free direct-install of energy savings measures including energy efficient lighting and faucets.
- Participants can also earn an incentive on energy saving in the whole building – including savings the residents units – and the savings from the free direct-install measures count toward the energy savings achievement level.
- There are three incentive levels, with incentives increasing with higher energy savings.
If you would like more information and for someone to contact you, visit http://www.MultiFamilyEnergySolutions.com or download a factsheet or FAQ document.
* Matthew Brown and Mark Wolfe. 2007. “Energy Efficiency in Multi-Family Housing: A profile and analysis,” 3, iv.
