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Energy Efficiency Assistance Program for Iowa Small Businesses

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The Energy Efficiency Assistance Program for Iowa Small Businesses at the Iowa Waste Reduction Center was created to provide free comprehensive educational materials specifically tailored to the needs of rural Iowa small businesses. Making the overall goal of the program to reduce energy consumption from Iowa small businesses.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Iowa Energy Efficiency Assistance Program?

It’s a statewide initiative led by the Iowa Waste Reduction Center (IWRC) at the University of Northern Iowa. The program provides free on-site energy audits and educational resources to help small businesses reduce energy consumption and operational costs.

Who can participate?
  • Iowa businesses with fewer than 100 employees
  • Any industry or location within Iowa
  • Businesses seeking cost savings and sustainability improvements
What services are included?
  • Free on-site energy audits for:
    • Lighting
    • HVAC systems
    • Compressed air
    • Building envelope
  • Customized audit reports with actionable recommendations
  • Access to fact sheets, case studies, and energy calculators
  • A dedicated energy efficiency webpage for tools and guidance
Why is this program important?

Small businesses often lack access to utility-sponsored energy programs. This initiative helps:

  • Lower energy bills
  • Improve environmental sustainability
  • Enhance economic resilience
What are the expected benefits?
  • Estimated annual cost savings: $244,080 statewide
  • Significant reductions in kilowatt-hours (kWh) or BTUs
  • Increased engagement through webinars and site visits
What are the program goals?
  1. Conduct 72+ on-site energy audits across Iowa
  2. Track implementation and measure energy and cost savings
  3. Provide quarterly and annual performance reports for transparency
How is the program funded?
  • The Iowa Waste Reduction Center was awarded a $200K grant from an Iowa Economic Development Authority (IDEA) energy program funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. 
How do I sign up?
  • Select the Request an Audit button at the top of this page OR
  • Visit iwrc.uni.edu/contact to request a free energy audit OR
  • Call 319-273-8905
Who can I contact for more information?

Dan Nickey
Associate Director, IWRC
319-273-6588
dan.nickey@uni.edu

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This assistance is funded through a grant from the Iowa Energy Office located at the Iowa Economic Development Authority.