LEAP takes a business approach to energy management and examines how energy is integrated with your business management systems, and provides assistance in developing an energy management plan. The plan identifies and prioritizes energy reduction measures and capital projects that provide the greatest return on investment. It also identifies incentive opportunities large energy users can utilize from the energy efficiency programs offered by DCEO and some Illinois utilities (Commonwealth Edison and Ameren Illinois) as part of the Illinois Energy Efficiency Portfolio. Participating entities typically reduce energy costs 10%-30% (sometimes more) if they implement the plan.
DCEO is currently providing these energy management practices through Sustainable Energy Workshops and follow-up services provided by Utilivate Technologies. The three step program begins with the workshop. The purpose of the day-long workshop is to teach large energy users how to develop a plan that will assist these companies and organizations to manage their energy expenditures more effectively, reduce energy usage, and achieve results that will improve business performance. The workshops typically consist of 2-3 staff from each of 12-17 entities, and will be conducted at several locations in the state. The large energy user pays a fee to cover some of the costs of the workshop.
The second step of the program is the "hands on" consulting and coaching (up to 25 hrs.) provided by Utilivate in assisting the large energy user in developing a strategic energy plan and identifying cost-effective energy efficiency measures. Technical services may include an energy performance baseline, an energy audit, energy mandate, and implementation strategies.
The final step of the program is a "Lessons Learned" workshop held six months after the initial workshop. This provides participants an opportunity to share their experiences in developing the sustainable energy plan and discuss strategies for implementing energy efficiency programs and projects.
The Large-customer Energy Analysis Program is designed to reduce the cost of doing business in the state, and thereby demonstrating the cost-effectiveness of energy efficiency strategies, protecting jobs, and reducing pollution from wasted energy.
For more information about this program, please contact:
Byron Lloyd
217/785-3412
byron.lloyd@illinois.gov