Pub. 7 2017 Issue 4

17 Those incentives reduced the payback for the East Peoria project to under 3.5 years. In light of the incentives available—and the savings generated at the East Peoria location — similar improvements are underway at three more Uftring locations. In total, Ameren Illinois provided more than $90,000 for the lighting upgrades. The auto dealer is using local suppliers and installers who are specially trained to navigate the utility’s program requirements and paperwork. “Our vendors are very well aware of Ameren Illinois programs. They’re doing a lot of the legwork for us,” says Bambrick, who readily recommends the utility’s programs to other businesses. “Ameren Illinois was easy to work with. They were helpful, provided timely information and quick incentive payment.” Once all of the LED lighting projects are complete, Uftring’s annual electricity use will be reduced by an estimated 1.17 million kilowatt-hours, generating more than $70,000 in annual energy savings — funds that could help them outpace competitors. “This is a very competitive market, so margins and savings are very important,” says Bambrick. The benefits of the new lighting, however, go beyond the bottom line. “We are better lit now, inside and out. The new lighting provides a better work environment, more security, and a better environment for our customers,” says Bambrick. “Now we’re shiny and bright.” Just like their cars. The lowdown on lighting projects Did you know? Design Lights Consortium qualified LED lighting: • Uses up to 80% less energy than standard lighting. • Lasts 35 to 50 times longer t han incandescent lighting and about two to five times longer than fluorescent lighting. • Produces very little heat, reducing cooling costs. • Comes with a minimum f ive-year warranty — far beyond the industry standard. • Ismore durable—won’t break like a bulb. • Offers convenient features, such as dimming. Resources available for lighting projects The Ameren Illinois Energy Efficiency Program offers cash incentives to help offset lighting project costs and valuable resources to assist with customer lighting upgrades. The programalso provides access to energy advisors who can help customers plan projects and identify additional energy-saving opportunities. Other Illinois utilities may offer similar energy efficiency programs; check with your local electric utility to find out more about energy-saving opportunities through their programs.  Bob Baumgartner is the business programmanager and deputy portfolio director for the Ameren Illinois Energy Efficiency Program. He has beenwith the programsince 2010. Contact him at 309-677-5079 or JBeintema@ ameren.com . DRIVE DOWN ENERGY COSTS Get cash incentives for energy-efficient upgrades. Lighting accounts for as much as 55% of energy costs at car dealerships. On the bright side, that means you can enjoy significant savings by making simple lighting improvements. Even better, cash incentives from Ameren Illinois can reduce the costs of making interior and exterior lighting upgrades that will help your dealership boost its bottom line each and every year. Get started today — Visit AmerenIllinois Savings.com/Auto or call 1.866.800.0747