Ann Arbor DDA works with businesses to reduce energy costs

Wednesday, October 15, 2008 | Source: Concentrate

The Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority is offering energy audits for free or at a greatly reduced price to downtown businesses in an effort to increase the city's sustainability.

The idea is to lower energy costs for downtown businesses while improving the city's image as a community dedicated to efficient and renewable energy. The DDA is also working with the city's Green Energy Challenge to make this happen.

The DDA's Downtown Energy Saving Grant Program provides a free energy audit to buildings 16,667 square feet or smaller. The program will pay up to $5,000 for audits of larger buildings. So far 47 applications have been approved, including 14 buildings larger than 17,000 square feet.

Energy audits work similar to financial audits. They assess how much energy a building is using and give recommendations for how to improve efficiency and best incorporate renewable energy sources. These audits often reveal door and window leaks, areas of poor insulation and outdated lighting or heating systems or controls.

The DDA is also working on a second phase to the program, which will include matching grants for building owners who decide to implement recommendations from the energy audit.

Ann Arbor's DDA has been a leader in Michigan when it comes to promoting sustainable initiatives. It has sponsored programs that promote alternative transportation, such as bring in Zipcars, build bike lockers and racks and push for commuter rail. One of its recent initiatives included the installation of solar panels at Ann Arbor's Farmer's Market.

For information on the DDA's Downtown Energy Saving Grant Program, call the city of Ann Arbor’s Energy Office at (734) 996-3150.

Source: Susan Pollay, executive director for the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority
Writer: Jon Zemke