Downtown Energy Saving Grant Program

The DDA has initiated a program to help downtown businesses lower the cost of doing business downtown by reducing their energy costs.  In support of the City’s Green Energy Challenge and the DDA’s goal to encourage a more sustainable downtown through greater energy efficiency and use of renewable energy, the DDA created the 2008/09 Downtown Energy Saving Grant Program.  Phase I of the program provides a free energy audit for qualified applicants with buildings smaller than 41,667 sq ft and $5,000 towards the cost of an energy audit for larger buildings.   On Monday, the 47 applications received before the September 30th deadline were approved for funding, including 3 buildings over 42,000 sq ft.

The audits, conducted by a qualified contractor, are intended to reveal opportunities for energy savings, including door and window leaks, areas of poor insulation, and outdated lighting or heating systems and controls.  In addition, energy auditors will offer each business a tailored list of energy-saving measures and renewable energy opportunities.  Feedback from phase I energy audits will enable the DDA to develop criteria and guidelines for the next phase of the program which is expected to include matching grants to encourage building and business owners to implement recommended energy saving solutions.

 This program is the latest in a number of DDA initiatives to promote sustainability as an essential component of downtown development.   Currently, the DDA plays a significant role in alternative transportation options by providing funds for free downtown commuter bus passes, bike lockers and hoops, commuter rail research, Zipcar, the Link, and the getDowntown Program. Additionally, it funded the installation of a solar-electric demonstration project at the Farmers Market, the cost to transition downtown globe lights to more energy-efficient LED lights, and sidewalk recycling containers in the district.    The DDA anticipates that the Energy Saving Grant program will help building and business owners find ways to save overhead costs and reduce their carbon footprint through energy efficiency and use of renewable energy.

If you are interested in pursuing an energy audit of your own, please call the City of Ann Arbor’s Energy Office for more information at 734/996-3150.