Save on Energy: Incentives for Upgrades

Energy costs are one of the biggest ongoing expenses for businesses today. Whether you run a small commercial shop or a large industrial operation, these costs can take up a large portion of your budget. Fortunately, there’s a way to reduce these costs without affecting the quality of your operations: upgrading to energy-efficient electrical systems. Through Ontario’s Save on Energy program, businesses can access valuable incentives to make the switch to more efficient solutions. At A+A Electrical, we’re dedicated to helping our commercial and industrial clients take full advantage of these perks to lower their expenses and support environmental sustainability. In this blog, we’ll explain how the Save on Energy program works, look at the best energy-efficient upgrades for commercial and industrial buildings, and show you how A+A Electrical can guide you in accessing these financial benefits. If you want to reduce energy use, save money, and make smart electrical investments, this is a great opportunity for you.

What is the Save on Energy Program?

The Save on Energy program is an energy efficiency initiative created by the Ontario government and the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO). The program provides rebates to businesses and industries that upgrade their systems to more energy-efficient technologies. By participating, companies can get financial support to make improvements that reduce electricity use, lower operational costs, and help the environment. The Save on Energy program is available to a wide range of businesses in Ontario, from small commercial establishments to large industrial operations. It offers various incentives designed to meet the needs of different sectors, with a particular focus on projects that deliver substantial industrial and commercial energy savings. Through the program, businesses can access electrical energy rebates for upgrades such as LED lighting, advanced lighting controls, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and more. These perks are meant to make energy-efficient upgrades affordable and cost-effective.

Why Businesses Should Consider Energy-Efficient Upgrades

As energy costs continue to rise, businesses are constantly on the search for ways to cut expenses. Upgrading to energy-efficient systems is one of the best ways to save money. Not only do such upgrades reduce energy use, but they can also improve performance, increase comfort and support environmental sustainability efforts. Here are some key reasons why businesses should consider making energy-efficient advancements:

• Cost-Savings: Energy-efficient systems, like LED lighting and VFDs, use less power and require less maintenance, which helps lower utility bills and operational costs over time. Additionally, by participating in programs like Save on Energy, businesses can take advantage of electrical energy rebates, further reducing the upfront cost of these upgrades and increasing overall savings.
• Environmental Benefits: By using less electricity, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
• Improved Productivity: Energy-efficient systems often boost the performance of equipment and processes, leading to higher productivity and less downtime.
• Government Incentives: The Save on Energy program helps businesses offset the initial costs of energy-efficient upgrades, making it easier to make the switch. 

Types of Upgrades Eligible for Save on Energy Incentives

The Save on Energy program covers a wide range of energy-efficient upgrades for both commercial and industrial businesses. By taking advantage of energy efficiency incentives, businesses can make significant improvements to reduce energy consumption and operational costs. Here are some of the best energy-efficient upgrades for commercial and industrial buildings:

1. LED Lighting

Lighting makes up a large part of a building’s energy use. By switching to energy-efficient LED lighting, businesses can cut down on power consumption. LED lights use much less energy than traditional incandescent or fluorescent lights, and they last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements. This makes LED lighting an ideal choice for both commercial and industrial energy upgrades. LED lighting also works well for both indoor and outdoor areas, making it a versatile option for commercial and industrial buildings. Besides saving energy, LED lights offer better lighting quality and colour rendering, improving the look and function of a space.

2. Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)

A Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) is an electronic device that controls the speed and torque of electric motors by adjusting the frequency and voltage of the electrical supply. VFDs are commonly used in equipment like fans, pumps, and compressors. They contribute significantly to commercial and industrial energy savings by allowing motors to run at the optimal speed based on demand, instead of running at full speed all the time. For example, when less airflow or pumping is needed, the VFD reduces the motor speed, which lowers energy use. This makes VFDs a great option for businesses looking to improve energy efficiency in industrial operations. In addition to saving energy, VFDs can help extend the lifespan of motors by reducing wear and tear, and they can also improve equipment performance, leading to higher operational efficiency.

3. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Upgrades

HVAC systems are another major contributor to a building’s energy consumption. By upgrading to more energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, businesses can save a lot of money. Modern HVAC systems have better technology that provides improved climate control while using less energy. Upgrading HVAC systems as part of industrial and commercial energy upgrades can also involve adding smart controls that adjust energy use based on occupancy or time of day. This ensures that heating and cooling are used only when necessary, helping to reduce unnecessary energy consumption.

4. Building Automation Systems (BAS)

Building Automation Systems (BAS) let businesses monitor and control different building systems, like lighting, HVAC, and security, from one central platform. These systems can be programmed to use energy more efficiently, making sure energy is only used when needed. BAS systems are especially helpful in large commercial or industrial buildings with complex energy needs. By automating energy use and adjusting settings based on real-time data, businesses can achieve significant commercial and industrial energy savings while also enhancing overall operational efficiency.

5. Compressed Air System Upgrades

Compressed air systems are often used in industrial settings but can be energy-intensive. By investing in industrial energy upgrades, such as more efficient compressors and improved system designs, businesses can reduce energy consumption and increase system reliability. Additionally, implementing variable speed drives on compressors helps ensure they run efficiently and adjust to fluctuating demand, further enhancing energy savings.

How A+A Electrical Can Help You Access Energy Efficiency Incentives

At A+A Electrical, we understand that every business has its own unique energy needs. Our team of experienced professionals is here to guide you through every step, from assessing your energy use to implementing the right upgrades and helping you get the most out of the Save on Energy program. Here’s how we can help:

• Energy Audits: We start by performing a thorough energy audit of your facility to find areas where you can reduce energy consumption. Our team will review your existing electrical systems and recommend upgrades that will help save you money.
• Project Planning and Design: After identifying the best energy-efficient upgrades for your commercial or industrial buildings, we’ll work with you to create a customized plan. We’ll help you prioritize upgrades based on cost-effectiveness and potential energy savings.
• Incentive Application: The incentive application process can be tricky, but our team is here to assist you. We’ll walk you through the paperwork and make sure you meet all the requirements to qualify for the Save on Energy.
• Implementation: Our team will take care of installing the energy-efficient upgrades, ensuring everything is done to the highest standards. We specialize in both commercial and industrial electrical solutions, so you can count on us for reliable and efficient installations.
• Verification and Rebates: Once the upgrades are complete, we’ll help you verify that the work meets the program’s requirements, making sure you receive the proper electrical energy rebates.

The Benefits of Participating in the Save on Energy Program

Participating in the Save on Energy program provides several key benefits for businesses. First and foremost, upgrading to energy-efficient systems can lead to significant savings on monthly utility bills, improving your bottom line. The program’s financial incentives, including electrical energy rebates, make it easier for businesses to invest in energy-efficient upgrades, lowering the upfront cost. These upgrades also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, supporting your environmental sustainability goals. Additionally, many energy-efficient systems, like VFDs and building automation systems, can boost overall operational efficiency, leading to better performance and less downtime.

Take the Next Step Toward Energy Savings Today

Energy efficiency is not just a trend; it’s a strategic investment that can provide long-term savings, improve operational performance, and support sustainability efforts. Through the Save on Energy program, A+A Electrical can help your business access valuable incentives for upgrading to energy-efficient electrical systems, including LED lighting, VFDs, and HVAC system upgrades. With over 20 skilled professionals and a commitment to excellence, we’re dedicated to delivering high-quality commercial and industrial electrical solutions. We guide businesses through the process of qualifying for energy efficiency incentives and implementing upgrades that deliver tangible benefits. If you’re ready to reduce energy consumption, save money, and make smarter electrical investments, contact A+A Electrical today to learn more about how we can help.