Program Helps Energy Conservation

A worker peforms a window measurement for weatherization purposes. Weatherization is a part of the energy efficiency projects the state helps fund.  (Photo Credit: DCEO)
A worker peforms a window measurement for weatherization purposes. Weatherization is a part of the energy efficiency projects the state helps fund. (Photo Credit: DCEO)

Illinois State officials recently announced guidelines for electric and gas rebates through the Illinois Energy Now program.

The initiative provides financial assistance to cities and schools to fund energy efficiency projects. Illinois Energy Now also helps the state Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity meet its green goals by reducing power demands.

The Illinois Energy Now program was created by the Energy Efficiency Portfolio that was signed into law in 2007.

Agnes Mrozowski, assistant deputy director at DCEOs Illinois Energy office said the initiative helps fund energy efficiency projects such as lighting fixtures, HVAC, LED traffic signals, water heaters, and natural gas water heaters.

The DCEO website stated that other projects are also accepted that help reduce electric and/or natural gas consumption.

Projects completed between June 1 and May 15, 2012, are eligible.

The program is open to municipalities; park, fire and school districts; universities; community colleges and state and federal facilities within prescribed gas and electric service areas.

Prior to the implementation of the Illinois Energy Now program, there had never before been a more coordinated effort to achieve public sector energy reduction goals. Though this program, we are helping to build a cleaner, greener Illinois and creating jobs for the future, stated Warren Ribley, director of DCEO in a recent press release.

Many individuals may be familiar with other DCEO Energy office efforts such as the 2010 Illinois ENERGY STAR Appliance Rebate Program.

The appliance rebate program was funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and the DCEO.The initiative motivated Illinois consumers with incentives to swap older appliances such as dishwashers, washers, refrigerators with specific residential ENERGY STAR qualified appliances.

The new appliances had to be purchased in Illinois through participating retail stores or contractors.

Through the appliance rebate program, $12,530,756 total rebate dollars administered to Illinois citizens, according to the DCEO.

For more information about Illinois Energy Now please visit www.illinoisenergy.org

Thelma Sardin, AP, press release

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