The Maryland Energy Administration is now offering low-interest loans through the EmPOWER Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Loan Fund (EELF) to help Maryland business improve the energy performance of their facilities. The Energy Efficiency Loan Fund is financially supported through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and the State of Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund . Proposed funding for the EELF is approximately $5.6 million through the end of fiscal year 2011.
"These loans will allow Maryland 's commercial and industrial businesses to implement energy efficiency solutions that not only save money and spur new job creation, but also help our State to achieve the EmPOWER Maryland goal of reducing energy consumption by 15 percent by the year 2015," says Gov. Martin O'Malley. "Today marks one more success for the families and workers of Maryland , as we strive to become a more Smart, Green and Growing State ."
Maryland businesses can now qualify for up to $500,000 for electric efficiency projects, and $750,000 for combined electric and gas/fuel oil efficiency projects with a minimum $35,000 for energy efficiency projects. Eligible types of energy efficiency projects may include, but are not limited to building weatherization, lighting technology upgrades, HVAC replacements or upgrades, and commercial refrigeration equipment upgrades.
"The Maryland Energy Administration has a wealth of energy efficiency and renewable energy programs available to all sectors in our State," commented MEA Director Malcolm Woolf. "The Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Loan Fund is yet another solid resource for Maryland businesses interested in increasing their energy savings and going green."
Businesses interested in the program are encouraged to download a project loan application at: www.energy.Maryland.gov/incentives/business, and to contact Jesse Fulton, the energy efficiency manager for this program at [email protected] or by phone at 410-260-7184 with any questions. Applications will be reviewed and awarded on a first come-first served basis. Applicants are encouraged to take advantage of other financial incentives offered to commercial and industrial businesses through their utility's EmPOWER energy efficiency programs.
Source: Maryland Energy Administration
Writer: Walaika Haskins