The Critical Role of Infrastructure Planning and Utility Engagement in Economic Development

A key insight from the 2023 Economic Development Summit organized by the I-70/75 Development Association was that comprehensive infrastructure planning and early utility coordination provide the critical foundation for successful economic development projects. I had the honor of attending and moderating an infrastructure-focused panel at this summit.

Insights from a Panel of Experts

As moderator of the infrastructure-focused panel “A Community Blueprint for Site Development,” I gained valuable insights from industry leaders including Rob Beeler from AES, Mason Malcolm from Kleingers Group, and Walt Hibner from CenterPoint Energy on the significance of proactive planning and utility partnerships.

 

Mason emphasized starting planning early, thoroughly assessing site conditions and constraints while engaging with utility companies. Rob explained that clearly communicating capacity needs and growth plans allows supportive utilities to meet current and future demands. However, building extensive new infrastructure like substations can extend project timelines.

 

Walt highlighted the expanding role of natural gas, with demand expected to grow 29% by 2050 according to EIA. Gas supports industrial development through process uses and emerging areas like hydrogen production. In fact, Ohio was recently designated as a blue hydrogen hub, with plans to produce hydrogen using natural gas feedstocks.

 

The group also discussed infrastructure cost considerations, explaining the difference between utilities funding speculative builds versus customer-driven expansions. Early involvement and planning provide more cost clarity.

A Blueprint for Revitalization

One of the most impactful presentations was given by lunch speaker Jason Duff from Small Nation, who presented their blueprint for catalyzing small town revitalization. He highlighted how highly coordinated efforts transformed Bellefontaine over 10 years, leading to outcomes including:

• 7 new downtown eateries
• 17 new specialty retail stores
• 3 event centers
• 56+ historic buildings and storefronts renovated
• 34+ upper floor apartments
• $30M+ in new private investment
• Over 180 new downtown jobs

 

Jason emphasized that cross-sector collaboration paved the way to go from dying to destination. This serves as an inspiration for communities everywhere.

The insights from this summit demonstrate that proactive infrastructure planning and utility coordination provide the indispensable foundation for bringing economic development projects to fruition. By taking an integrated, partnership-based approach starting early, communities can turn ambitious visions into reality.

About the Author

Keith Valiquette

Keith Valiquette has been in the energy business for over 35 years. He has extensive operational experience in electric supply, energy tariffs, energy conservation strategies, transportation natural gas supply, and power production in his multiple roles at the Dayton Power and Light Company (DP&L) over 15 years. As a member of Duke Energy’s industrial solutions group, he focused on outsourcing central utility plants. With over $45 million in municipal project experience, Keith has developed small projects that addressed everything from HVAC systems, street lighting and traffic signals and lighting to more complex projects like cogeneration. Keith received his MBA and his B.S. in Electrical Engineering Technology from the University of Dayton.

email: kvaliquette@esg.email | phone: 937-602-6630

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Earlier this month, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced the first 10 prize winners in the inaugural Historically Black College and Universities (HBCU) Clean Energy Education Prize Inspire Track. We want to take the time to congratulate our customer Clark Atlanta University on winning one of the 10 prizes!

 

Clark Atlanta University will now each receive $40,000 to continue their efforts towards sustainability through clean energy-focused summer camps for K-12 and community college scholars. This award aligns with President Biden's Justice40 initiative, which aims to ensure that 40% of the benefits of certain federal investments go to disadvantaged communities. This initiative will be a significant driver in shaping America's clean energy future by cultivating a diverse and inclusive STEM workforce, a goal we are proud to support.

As a partner, we know Clark Atlanta University is dedicated to ensuring that clean energy is a priority on their campus. Through our partnership at their John B. Shepard Central Utility Plant, the university was able to achieve over 15,000,000 kWh in annual energy savings. We are excited to continue supporting Clark Atlanta University over the next 5 years and see them continue their clean energy efforts through the winning of this esteemed prize. Once again, our warmest congratulations to Clark Atlanta University!

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The good news is, for those eligible, there’s still time to take advantage of this support. The government has allowed states to request 14-month deadline extensions for spending remaining ESSER allocations.

Strategic Investments to Consider

While ESSER funds can cover a wide range of needs, some smart targets for maximizing impact include:

• HVAC Enhancements – Upgrading ventilation and filtration improves air quality and reduces virus transmission risks.
• Security Upgrades – Investing in equipment like cameras and access control systems enhances safety.
• Infrastructure Modernization – Renovating outdated buildings and equipment saves long-term operating costs.

For example, Anderson County Schools in Tennessee used ESSER funding to install ionization in common areas across the district with our assistance. By improving air quality broadly in gathering spaces, this allowed them to bring students back safely after pandemic closures while maximizing in-person time to the greatest extent possible given the project parameters.

Partner with ESG to Make the Most of ESSER

At ESG, we help school districts thoughtfully plan and implement projects tailored to provide the greatest impact with these one-time funds. Our team can:

• Perform audits identifying the most critical facility needs in your district
• Engineer HVAC, safety, and infrastructure solutions providing maximum benefit
• Deliver upgrades efficiently, so you meet impending ESSER deadlines
• Pair investments with energy conservation measures to multiply your savings

With billions in ESSER funds still unallocated, now is the time for schools to act. Let’s connect to discuss how we can help you make the most of this opportunity to enhance your learning environments long-term.

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Municipal Advisor Disclaimer Statement

ESG is as an engineering and energy services firm that designs and delivers energy-related and other infrastructure solutions. ESG is not a financial advisor or municipal advisor in the context of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act as contemplated under the U.S. securities laws, and none of the information provided herein is intended as, or should be considered as, a recommendation of any particular financing structure or financial advice regarding any municipal financial product or the issuance of municipal securities under section 15B of the Securities Exchange Act, or otherwise.

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Sustainability is a complex challenge that requires comprehensive solutions tailored to each organization and facility. In celebration of National Clean Energy Week, we thought it was important to showcase all that we at Energy Systems Group (ESG) have to offer to help your organization achieve its clean energy goals.

By assessing needs and integrating the right combination of measures - from electrification to efficiency upgrades, on-site renewables, and more - ESG develops tailored solutions to maximize impact. This integrated approach delivers deeper savings and ensures solutions work together for optimal performance over the long term.

Electrification: Modernizing for the Future

Transitioning to electric technologies is critical for organizations seeking to reduce their carbon footprints. We help customers electrify their fleets with EV charging stations, upgrade HVAC systems to efficient electric heat pumps, and more. For example, at State Correctional Institution (SCI) in Fayette, Pennsylvania, ESG implemented an energy savings performance contract that included building a central utility plant (CUP) and a wide range of energy savings measures. In addition to those benefits, we installed an electric vehicle charging station for state vehicle use.

SCI Fayette generated more than $3.1 million in annual energy savings and reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 1,205 metric tons a year.

The EV charging station provided the facility with a location to charge its electric vehicles and supported a broader Commonwealth of Pennsylvania initiative to reduce carbon
emissions and encourage the use of EVs.

Efficiency: Uncovering Hidden Savings

With lighting retrofits, HVAC upgrades, water conservation measures, and other improvements, we can target energy waste across facilities. Clients like Cabell County Schools partner with us to conduct in-depth audits identifying savings opportunities. Comprehensive projects modernize infrastructure while allowing customers to reallocate savings to other priorities.

Cabell County Schools saved more than $5 million over the life of the contract and reduced energy use by more than 500,000 kWh annually.

Renewables and Storage: On-Site Clean Power

Solar, geothermal, and other renewables paired with battery storage allow customers to supply their own clean energy. We tailor the ideal mix of solutions to offset consumption from the grid. For customers like Hill Air Force Base in Utah, implementing a 3.55 MW direct control solar photoboltaic (PV) array along with other energy efficient upgrades, reduced emissions by nearly 40,000 metric tons per year while providing reliable on-site power generation.

Resilience: Ready for Anything

Between severe weather and grid reliability issues, resilience is essential for today's organizations. We help enhance resilience through distributed generation assets, microgrids, energy storage and more. At Ft. Detrick, we integrated distributed generation and a microgrid system enabling the site to maintain critical operations at all times.

Since first becoming operational in 2008, the Energy Production Facility we implemented has never failed to achieve the 99.999% power availability it was designed to meet.

With expertise across all aspects of advanced energy, we collaborate with customers like you to provide the optimal combination of solutions to reduce environmental impact and energy costs while enhancing resilience. By taking an integrated approach, we ensure investments work together for maximum benefit over the long term.

Ready to get started on your sustainability journey? We're here to be your guide! Let's connect to kickstart saving energy, money and the planet.

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The good news is that strategic preventative maintenance planning can help your schools!

Take Control with Proactive and Preventative Maintenance Planning

Using proactive and preventative maintenance can help address deferred maintenance. Did you know that an unplanned repair or replacement can be 2.5 to 3 times more expensive in the long run than planning for it? Here’s what you need to consider:

• Annual assessments to identify needs regarding HVAC equipment replacement and repairs
• Prioritization of systems needs like HVAC, lighting, and controls per facility and per unit
• Scheduling of routine maintenance tasks during breaks
• Budgeting for periodic upgrades based on lifecycles rather than failure

By implementing a strategic maintenance plan, schools can prevent deferred projects from snowballing into urgent reactive work.

Optimize School Facilities through Proactive Planning

Proactive planning ensures preventative maintenance activities align with district goals and budgets. Benefits include:

• More comfortable, distraction-free spaces for better learning
• Reduced utility bills through optimized equipment lifespans
• Well-maintained facilities that enhance district reputation

By taking a proactive approach, administrators can overcome burdensome deferred maintenance backlogs. So, the question becomes, what should you do next?

Overcome Deferred Maintenance through Partnership with ESG

Don’t let the deferred maintenance in your schools hold you back any longer. ESG brings decades of experience and expertise in helping school districts like yours implement customized plans to address facility needs.

Our team becomes an extension of yours, assessing your specific maintenance backlog and then collaborating to determine the optimal funding mix. The right mix of funding and financing (local, state, federal funds, energy and operations savings, and incentives) allows you to modernize learning environments, and we are here to help you every step of the way. We will look at all the possibilities, from local and state funding to federal support through programs like the Inflation Reduction Act.

By working together, we can create schools that can make you, your students, and your staff proud. Ready to ace facilities maintenance? Enroll with ESG for expert guidance!

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Exploring Potential Grants

Grants are instrumental in providing support to various industries and initiatives focused on sustainability. One program that is currently gaining significant attention is the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) under the Inflation Reduction Act. This program specifically benefits public sector entities that were previously unable to take advantage of tax incentives. The Delta Regional Authority provides financial assistance to rural areas facing economic challenges, and there are potential grants and funds from the USDA for promoting economic development in rural regions. These initiatives collectively contribute to the growth and sustainability of different sectors. 

Investment Tax Credit Benefits:

• Financial incentives like offsetting costs of sustainability projects
• Expanded eligibility to public sectors that were unable to benefit from tax incentives previously. Public sector entities can claim a refund for the investment tax credit by filing an annual tax return with the IRS, as long as they meet all requirements, including pre-filing registration. The IRS will then make a refund payment to the local government, as they are not subject to federal income tax. It is important to note that the regulations are not final. It is possible the final regulations could be out by the end of 2023.
• Long-term cost savings for your business through energy-efficient and renewable energy projects
• Encourages businesses and organizations to adopt sustainable practices and makes these upgrades a financially viable option
• Meet carbon footprint reduction goals and an overall impact on the environment with greener upgrades

Delta Regional Authority Funding:

• Funds are specifically available to rural areas facing unique economic challenges
• Designed to stimulate economic growth, create jobs and attract investments that can revitalize local economies
• Supports infrastructure and sustainable projects like water and wastewater systems, renewable energy initiatives, and business development
• Funds community entities like healthcare, education, and cultural preservation, fostering partnerships for positive change in the Delta region.

Exploring Incentive Programs

Incentive programs offer invaluable support for project implementation. Public sector entities can access ‘free money’ through matching grants, combining incentives, and reallocating budget inefficiencies. By taking advantage of these programs, public sector entities can overcome financial barriers and make their sustainability projects a reality. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Matching grants: Incentive programs often require a matching contribution from the participating entity. You can secure funding by providing a portion of the project cost that is matched by the grant. This allows them to maximize the financial support available and implement impactful sustainability initiatives.
• Combining incentives: Public sector entities can explore multiple incentive programs simultaneously to unlock additional funding opportunities. By combining incentives like grants, rebates, and tax credits, entities can maximize financial benefits and stretch their budgets further.
• Budget reallocation: In some cases, public sector entities can redirect inefficiencies within their existing budgets to fund sustainability projects. By reallocating saved funds, entities can promote energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and other environmental improvements.

Utility rebates for energy conservation are widely available, allowing public sector entities to offset upfront costs of implementing energy-saving technologies. These rebates significantly improve the affordability and feasibility of sustainability projects. With the growing demand for power and increasing government pressure on utilities, more incentives are expected in the future, providing additional funding opportunities. Staying informed and proactive in exploring evolving incentive programs will be crucial for maximizing financial support and driving impactful change.

Rebates for Sustainable Projects

Utility companies and government entities are keen on promoting energy efficiency and offer enticing rebates to incentivize the adoption of energy-saving technologies. By taking advantage of these rebates, you can significantly offset the upfront costs of your sustainability projects and improve their overall affordability. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Wide range of rebates: Utility companies and government entities offer a wide range of rebates tailored to different energy-saving technologies. These can include rebates for energy-efficient appliances, HVAC systems, lighting upgrades, insulation improvements, and more. By exploring these programs, you can identify specific rebates that align with your project needs and maximize your financial benefits.
• Electric switches and incentives: One notable area where public entities have embraced rebates is in the adoption of electric switches, such as heat pumps and electric hot water systems. Utility companies often offer attractive rebates to encourage the transition to these energy-efficient alternatives. By leveraging these incentives, you can not only reduce your project costs but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
• Financial savings and environmental impact: Participating in rebate programs not only helps you save money on your project expenses but also contributes to energy conservation and environmental sustainability. By adopting energy-saving technologies, you can reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills, and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. These combined benefits make rebates an appealing opportunity to enhance your project’s financial feasibility while making a positive environmental impact.
• Streamlined application processes: Utility companies and government entities have streamlined the application processes for rebates, making it easier for public entities to participate. Online application portals and clear guidelines simplify the process of applying for rebates, ensuring a smoother experience for project initiators. Additionally, some utility companies may provide resources and support to help you navigate the rebate application and ensure you meet the necessary criteria.

Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to leverage rebates and improve the affordability of your sustainability projects. By exploring the available rebates offered by utility companies and government entities, you can maximize your financial benefits, reduce project costs, and accelerate the implementation of energy-saving technologies.

Navigating the Application Process

The application process can serve as yet another barrier to overcome as you take on these complex projects. Here are just some of the steps that you’ll need to look at:

Identifying Eligible Programs:

Researching and identifying grants, incentives, and rebate programs tailored to your industry or project type is crucial. While we’ve gone over a few, there are so many more that can be considered for your project. Our team at Energy Systems Group is committed to proactively supporting you by staying updated on available opportunities and partnering with you to apply for the right opportunities.

Understanding Application Requirements:

Grant applications require thorough understanding and strategic alignment. Our expertise lies in helping you find the sweet spot for grants, aligning projects with your needs, and navigating the political landscape for successful applications. It’s important to consider the potential strings attached to “free money,” such as procurement regulations, applicable uses, reporting, and the “buy American” requirement. We’ll guide you through these complexities to ensure a smooth process.

Navigating the Submission Process:

Preparing and submitting grant or incentive applications requires a step-by-step approach. We’ve outlined the general path to success, which involves collaboration with our team from start to finish. We’ll assist you throughout the process, including installation and back-end reporting, to maximize your chances of securing funding.

Real-World Examples and Impacts

Our team recently won a bid to install energy efficient LED lighting at the community ball fields in Trimble County, KY with the help of funding from [funding source]. The new lighting will ultimately reduce energy consumption while improving visibility for evening games and practices. Trimble County residents are excited for the enhancements that will allow the parks to host larger tournaments and become an even greater community asset.

Pea Ridge secured $4.6 million in grants and partnered with ESG to fund their project’s other $2.8 million through energy savings contracting. These updates improved learning environments, boosted resilience, and ensured financial sustainability through energy savings and grants.

Schools in Tennessee have access to generous Tennessee Valley Authority EnergyRight incentives. ESG has facilitated over $2 million in documented TVA incentives for K-12 projects, helping districts upgrade facilities while optimizing energy budgets.

What We Have Learned

Through our project experiences, we have gained valuable insights into the challenges faced when securing funding. Collaborating closely with customers, aligning projects with their needs and grant requirements, and navigating the political aspects of grant acquisition are key factors for success. With our expertise in sales and procurement, we ensure that the process is conducted in a transparent and compliant way. Additionally, our Tax-Exempt Installment Purchase agreement allows for group purchasing, further optimizing the financial benefits for public sector entities. By combining grants with Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPC) and other various funding sources, we have been able to make significant and lasting improvements to public sector entities, amplifying the positive impact on their sustainability initiatives.

Collaborate with Us to Bring Your Vision to Life

Understanding available grants, incentives, and rebates is essential for unlocking funding opportunities and bringing sustainability projects to life. Our team at [Your Organization] is dedicated to helping you navigate this landscape, offering expertise and support at every step. Together, we can leverage these resources to make a lasting impact on your organization and the environment. Get started today by exploring the wide range of opportunities waiting for you!

Municipal Advisor Disclaimer Statement

ESG is as an engineering and energy services firm that designs and delivers energy-related and other infrastructure solutions. ESG is not a financial advisor or municipal advisor in the context of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act as contemplated under the U.S. securities laws, and none of the information provided herein is intended as, or should be considered as, a recommendation of any particular financing structure or financial advice regarding any municipal financial product or the issuance of municipal securities under section 15B of the Securities Exchange Act, or otherwise.

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Energy costs in K-12 schools not only drain precious financial resources but also hinder the ability to provide a high-quality education. The substantial expenditure on energy, which amounts to over $8 billion annually in the United States alone, puts a strain on school budgets and limits the funds available for crucial educational resources. It is essential for school administrators and stakeholders to understand the impact of energy costs and take proactive measures to alleviate this financial burden.

When energy costs consume a significant portion of a school's budget, it directly affects the allocation of resources for other essential areas such as curriculum development, teacher training, and extracurricular activities. The inability to invest in these areas can have a detrimental effect on the overall educational experience for students. Moreover, the reliance on non-renewable energy sources contributes to environmental degradation and exacerbates climate change, further emphasizing the need for energy improvements in schools.

Unleashing Potential Savings through Energy Efficiency

Implementing energy efficiency measures presents an opportunity for significant savings in schools. By adopting energy-efficient technologies like smart HVAC systems, building automation controls, and water conservation measures, schools can lower their energy consumption even further, thus lowering their utility bills. LED upgrades alone have been shown to cut a district’s electricity use up to 40%, resulting in long-term cost savings. Another great benefit to LED lighting is that it has a longer lifespan compared to traditional lighting options, reducing the frequency of replacements and maintenance costs. Here are some facts and figures from some of our previous work:

Exploring Funding Options for Energy Improvements

To overcome financial barriers, schools can explore various funding options and programs. Grants, loans, government initiatives, and private partnerships provide resources that facilitate the transformation of energy infrastructure. Accessing grants from organizations like the U.S. Department of Energy allows schools to receive financial support specifically tailored for energy improvements. Additionally, loans can be obtained from financial institutions that offer favorable terms and low-interest rates, making it easier for schools to invest in energy-efficient technologies, but we know none of this is groundbreaking information.

What may be groundbreaking information, though, is that Energy Systems Group can actually help you with finding the right financial solutions for your goals. For instance, if you live in what the government refers to as an Energy Community, there are funds available for all kinds of projects, including school upgrades. Even when organizations realize they need funding and financing, the process of securing it can still be daunting. The terminology, qualifying criteria, and available options are dense and complex to navigate. Our team can help you break that barrier. Our team is extremely knowledgeable and will help you navigate all of your options and then help you implement them.

The Long-Term Benefits

Energy improvements yield long-term benefits beyond immediate financial savings. Schools investing in energy-efficient systems not only lower their utility bills but also create comfortable and healthier learning environments. By optimizing building envelope systems and implementing smart HVAC systems, schools can regulate temperature and air quality, ensuring that students and staff have a conducive environment for teaching and learning. Improved indoor air quality has been proven to enhance students' cognitive performance, leading to higher academic achievements.

Energy-efficient systems also reduce maintenance costs associated with equipment. With longer-lasting LED lighting and new HVAC systems that require less frequent repairs, schools can allocate their budgets toward other critical areas of education. By reducing the burden of maintenance expenses, schools can redirect those funds to enhance educational resources, invest in innovative teaching methods, or provide additional support to students.

The financial impacts of energy improvements in K-12 schools are significant and cannot be ignored. The high energy costs drain valuable resources that could be used for educational purposes, hindering the quality of education provided. Alternatively, by implementing energy-efficient technologies and exploring funding options, schools can unleash potential savings and create a healthier learning environment for students. The long-term benefits of energy improvements extend beyond financial savings, as they also enhance students' academic achievements and allow for greater investment in educational resources.  Discover the endless possibilities that Energy Systems Group can offer as your trusted partner. Take the first step towards transforming your school and empowering your budget by signing up below.

Municipal Advisor Disclaimer Statement

ESG is as an engineering and energy services firm that designs and delivers energy-related and other infrastructure solutions. ESG is not a financial advisor or municipal advisor in the context of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act as contemplated under the U.S. securities laws, and none of the information provided herein is intended as, or should be considered as, a recommendation of any particular financing structure or financial advice regarding any municipal financial product or the issuance of municipal securities under section 15B of the Securities Exchange Act, or otherwise.

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This accomplishment will allows us to continue providing award-winning energy savings and infrastructure improvement projects through ESPCs at federal facilities across the country.

About the Generation 4 IDIQ

The IDIQ contract is offered by the Department of Energy’s Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP). It serves as an efficient contractual vehicle for federal agencies to procure ESPC projects from pre-qualified ESCOs like ESG.

Given that the IDIQ covers a 10-year period with a contract ceiling of $15 billion, it provides ESCOs access to a significant pipeline of complex and impactful projects. The highly competitive IDIQ selection process ensures that only companies with the greatest expertise and experience are chosen to implement these critical upgrades.

ESG’s IDIQ Qualifications

Being awarded a spot on the Generation 4 IDIQ demonstrates ESG’s strengths in the following key areas:

• Proven experience delivering federally-focused ESPC projects
• Technical expertise across efficiency, sustainability, and resiliency
• History of excellent client service and communication
• Commitment to equipment performance transparency through measurement and verification of guaranteed energy savings.
• Dedicated team focused on the federal sector
• Strong financials and bonding capabilities

This impressive range of qualifications has enabled ESG to implement over $300M of projects through prior-generation DOE IDIQs. We are thrilled to leverage our expertise and this new contract to continue enabling federal agencies to improve their infrastructure assets and meet sustainability goals through guaranteed energy savings.

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What is an Energy Community?

First, let’s talk about energy communities and what they are. Since the Biden-Harris administration took office, one of their goals has been to rebuild the economy “from the bottom up and the middle out.” As part of this initiative, Biden signed an executive order creating the Interagency Working Group on Coal and Power Plant Communities and Economic Revitalization, which focuses on prioritizing grantmaking, federal loan programs, financing, and more to support and revitalize the economies of coal and power plant communities or “energy communities.”

An initial report was developed to highlight which areas these initiatives would support, which includes those highlighted on this map.

Economic development in these communities is vitally important to these communities as many were hit hard by coal mind and coal power plant closures leaving these communities grappling with economic challenges and job losses. By focusing on economic development and revitalization, these energy communities can attract new companies and industries, create jobs, and rebuild their economic foundation. Revitalization will bring community members improved living standards, enhance local business and bring an overall sense of well-being.  

So, What Did We Take Away?

Now that we’ve covered what an energy community is, let’s get into some of the benefits and takeaways from the recent session we sat in on. One of the biggest things we took away is that working with an ESCO like Energy Systems Group is going to be key to getting your projects done and here is why…

Expertise and Resource

ESCOs specialize in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and related technologies. They possess the expertise, experience, and resources necessary to identify and implement energy-saving measures and renewable energy projects. By collaborating with ESCOs, counties can tap into this wealth of knowledge and benefit from their comprehensive approach to energy management.

Funding Opportunities

One of the most significant advantages of partnering with ESCOs is their access to diverse funding sources. ESCOs are well-versed in grants, loans, and private financing options, making them invaluable in securing the necessary funding for energy projects. Their familiarity with funding programs and expertise in navigating complex application processes increase the likelihood of successful funding acquisition.

Investment Tax Credits

Investment tax credits (ITCs) present a compelling financial incentive for investing in renewable energy projects, such as solar or wind installations. By working with ESCOs, counties can identify eligible projects, evaluate their financial viability, and optimize the benefits of ITCs to make projects more financially attractive. This support significantly reduces the upfront costs associated with implementing renewable energy systems. And the ITC isn’t the only available tax credit through the Inflation Reduction Act. There are 22 other funding opportunities right now that our team can help you navigate no matter what the economic development project might be. You can see the full list here.

Energy Cost Savings

Partnerships with ESCOs can yield substantial energy cost savings for counties over time. Through comprehensive energy audits and tailored energy efficiency measures, ESCOs optimize lighting systems, HVAC systems, insulation, and smart energy management solutions. These measures not only offset project costs but also provide long-term financial benefits through reduced energy consumption.

Environmental Impact

Collaborating with ESCOs allows counties to actively contribute to sustainability goals and environmental stewardship. By implementing energy efficiency measures and investing in renewable energy projects, counties can reduce their carbon footprint and support the transition to a clean energy future. ESCOs play a vital role in empowering counties to make a meaningful impact on their local environment.

By embracing partnerships with ESCOs, counties designated as energy communities can unlock expert knowledge, secure funding, maximize investment tax credits, achieve energy cost savings, and make a positive environmental impact. At Energy Systems Group, we are proud to be an ESCO, uniquely positioned to assist communities in capitalizing on these incentives. Together, we can pave the way for sustainable energy solutions and create a brighter, greener future for all. Get in touch with us to discuss a tailored solution that works for YOUR project(s)!

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