U.S. Rebates & Incentives Update: May 2018

Schneider Electric helps organizations identify, qualify, pursue and obtain dollars the utilities set aside for energy efficiency projects. Each month our experts compile important news and notes on rebates & incentives from around the U.S.

Bring Energy Savings Up to Speed

Many utilities incentivize Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs), yet, on average, only a small percentage of businesses take advantage of VFD incentives. These control mechanisms manage an electric motor by adjusting the frequency and voltage supplied by the motor to match the necessary load requirements. VFDs reduce energy waste by ensuring equipment only runs at the highest speed necessary. For example, in most cases, decreasing a motor’s speed by 50% results in a 75% reduction in energy consumption. That means substantial energy savings and an increased bottom line are achievable.

Typically, rebates are highest when VFDs are installed on commercial HVAC equipment or fryer hoods for restaurants. However, VFDs can also be installed on everything from small appliances to large air compression systems. Additionally, VFDs can be used in new construction, but they are also an option for retrofit into existing systems.

According to Project Green Power, 25% of the world’s electrical energy is consumed by electrical motors in industrial applications. So, if you want to increase efficiency, save money on electricity bills and receive rebates, a VFD just might be a feasible option.

NORTHEAST REGION

PSEG Long Island

PSEG Long Island is adding outdoor lighting rebates to its incentive list soon. The new Outdoor Lighting Rebate Program is expected to launch before long, but dates are not yet available. Previously, outdoor lighting rebates were not available because they did not align with the utility’s four-year plan of reducing peak load. However, the PSEG Long Island Utility 2.0 plan for improving energy efficiency and reducing peak load has concluded. The new plan structure will emerge shortly and provide outdoor lighting incentive opportunities to PSEG-LI customers.

DTE Energy

To expedite the updating of T12 linear fluorescent fixtures to DLC LED fixtures, DTE Energy is offering a limited time, inflated rebate. DTE’s ultimate goal is to diminish all use of T12 fixtures. Between now and July 31, 2018, applications will be accepted but once allotted funds are depleted, the bonus offer will end. The deadline to complete the upgrades and submit a final application is September 30, 2018. This offer cannot be combined with other offers or bonuses.

WEST REGION

Snohomish County PUD

Snohomish County PUD is offering a limited time 25% bonus on energy efficient non-lighting projects. Projects require utility pre-approval before purchase or installation. A complete package must be submitted by July 4, 2018 and completed by November 21, 2018. This bonus is offered on a first-come-first-serve basis and will only continue until funds are exhausted.

Southern California Edison

In January of this year, prescriptive incentives for outdoor lighting were discontinued. Now, as a result of a decision by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), custom exterior lighting incentives are also withdrawn.

Beginning May 1, 2018, SCE will no longer incentivize exterior lighting measures. Projects submitted prior to May 1st and that adhere to the programs specific guidelines and time frame will receive incentives as expected. SCE will not be granting extensions or reinstating declined projects.

QUICK UPDATES

• Omaha Public Power District expects to be out of funding by April 2018.
• Franklin PUD suspended all rebate offerings until further notice as of April 12, 2018.
• El Paso Electric’s SCORE plus program is out of funding. Waitlist available but funding is not guaranteed.
• Tucson Electric Power’s Commercial Energy Solutions program reopens May 3, 2018.
• AEP Texas – Central is out of funding.

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