Energy efficiency upgrades can be complex. Below are clarifications to common questions.

LED Lighting

How much can I save by switching to LED lighting?

The most common upgrades cut a fixture's wattage by 40% to 60%; the wattage reduction corresponds to the reduction in lighting costs on your monthly electric bill. Actual dollar savings will vary by facility type and utility rate. ROI Energy can work with you to assess your facility and what savings might be available.

How long do LED lights last?

Most LED fixtures are rated for 50,000 hours of usage, which means most measures will require little to no maintenance for years after installation.

Do I need to replace my old fixtures to install LED technology? 

Many fixtures can be retrofit to accommodate LED technology. ROI Energy will work with your organization to consider short- and long-term goals for your facility and determine the upgrade strategy that is right for you. 

Do LED tubes operate with a ballast? 

Certain LED tubes are capable of operating with an existing fluorescent ballast. Some LED lamps include "hybrid" technology that allows for plug-and-play installation or direct-wire installation that eliminates the need for a ballast. 

Incentive Programs

How do incentive programs work? 

Many states have mandated energy efficiency targets for their electric and gas utilities. To meet these targets, the utility sets aside funds that are dedicated to recognizing efficiency targets, including incentive programs. For business owners, that means your electric utility may be ready to help pay for energy-saving (and cost-saving) measures. 

Are my facilities eligible for incentives? 

Eligibility varies by state and service provider. Where incentives are available, nearly all non-residential customers are eligible for incentives. Retail shops, schools, restaurants, warehouses, offices, churches, community centers, and other government buildings are just a few examples of buildings that generally qualify. If you have questions about your specific situation, contact info@roi.energy.

What sorts of measures are eligible for incentives?

Most utilities have incentives for both gas and electric customers. Anything that draws electric power -- lights, AC units, refrigeration, etc. -- or anything that operates on gas -- heaters, boilers, ovens -- may be eligible. Incentives are especially targeted toward replacing older technology with new, energy-efficient technologies.

I don't own my facility. Can I take advantage of incentives?

Yes. Especially if you are responsible for maintenance of the facility, or for paying the utility bills, efficiency upgrades can be an accessible way for you to find cost savings. With paybacks for as little as a few months, upgrading a leased facility can make tremendous financial sense.

Can I apply for incentives myself?

Most utilities do have programs that enable business owners to install energy efficiency retrofits and apply for incentives. However, in most cases these incentives are lower than what a business can receive when applying for incentives through an approved Trade Ally.

Financial

Can I pursue an energy-efficiency project without a large capital expense? 

In many cases, yes. ROI Energy works with customers to identify cost-effective implementation options and financial solutions to create a project that fits the organization's budget and goals. 

How much will upgrades cost? 

Costs and incentives vary based on a variety of factors, including the type of facility, square footage, types of measures being upgraded, and which utility provides your electricity. 

In many projects, incentives cover 70% or more of the cost -- and the remaining cost can be recovered in as little as 6-24 months -- simply by adding up the monthly savings on your utility bill.

How much will it cost not to upgrade?

Most LED lighting projects will pay for themselves in the first 1-2 years, and the lifetime of the materials is 15-30 years. The cost of delaying an upgrade can be significant. 

Energy Efficiency

What is Energy Efficiency?

Energy efficiency is about meeting existing needs while utilizing less energy. Energy efficiency can be achieved through a variety of means, including installation of newer technology (such as LED lighting), improved usage strategies (such as sensors and controls), and strengthened application of traditional measures (such as insulating water pipes to preserve heat). 

Why is Energy Efficiency important for my organization?

Energy efficiency improvements yield benefits to your organization's finances, operations, and social responsibility