Consumers Energy Offering Deals For Renewables, Conservation

JACKSON -- Consumers Energy has begun accepting applications from business customers interested in developing their own renewable energy sources.

The Jackson-based utility also announced a cash rebate program for energy efficiency upgrades on multifamily housing properties.

For the renewables, Consumers Energy had previously contracted to purchase 2,000 kilowatts of power from customers that installed photovoltaic solar panels at their homes or businesses.  The utility's current solicitation is seeking applications for an additional 250 kilowatts of photovoltaic solar installations located at commercial or industrial customers' businesses.

Applications will be due on or before Sept. 28. Applications and instructions are available at: www.consumersenergy.com/EARP. Additional solicitations for photovoltaic solar installations from both residential and business customers are planned for the next three years.

As for the cash rebates, Consumers is now offering multifamily property owners free installation of energy and water efficient products in individual living units, and free assessment of the lighting, heating, cooling and water heating systems in common areas.

Under the Consumers Energy Saving Solutions program for multifamily properties, specially trained energy advisors will also perform free energy assessments of lighting; heating, cooling and water heating systems in common areas. Field technicians will install compact fluorescent light bulbs, energy-efficient shower heads, and kitchen and bathroom faucet aerators in each living unit at no charge. The energy advisors then recommend the most beneficial and cost-effective energy improvements, including those for which property owners can receive cash back from Consumers Energy.

Rebates for energy efficiency upgrades include, $1.50 per light bulb replaced, $18 per furnace tune-up, $30 per exit sign replaced, $75 per water heater replaced, and more.

The program is open to properties of five or more units per building served by Consumers Energy and helps owners add value to properties and reduce water, electric and sewer costs.

"We're inviting multifamily property owners to make important -- and valuable -- energy upgrades," says Sandy Wymer, energy efficiency programs manager for Consumers Energy. "Energy cost savings are just one benefit of improving the energy efficiency of multifamily properties. Rebates help defray the cost of upgrades for multifamily property owners, and also offer the potential to increase property values, reduce tenants' costs, and improve the environment."

For information on how to participate, call (866) 234-0445 or visit www.consumersenergytradeally.com.