Rhode Island is experiencing dramatic changes in climate, impacting people across the state. However, we have reached an inflection point for sustainability efforts, as many businesses pledge to invest in renewable energy and provide for a healthier workplace – a trend spurred partly by Rhode Island’s 2021 Act on Climate law, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050.
As we reflect on the many impressive strides made toward a more energy-efficient future and the challenges that still need to be addressed, an increasing number of small- to medium-sized businesses are considering what these measures could do for them.
While the spotlight has largely been on top corporations’ sustainability efforts, these dynamics are quickly evolving, and small businesses are beginning to realize the potential this has for building a strong competitive edge.
In fact, dynamic, growing organizations are increasingly taking energy-efficient measures to boost the performance of their workplaces. While collaboration toward a more sustainable future has become an expected norm, small businesses can also reap benefits from reduced operational and maintenance costs, increased comfort for employees and customers, and, ultimately, a positive impact on the bottom line.
However, energy-efficiency initiatives are never one size -fits all, and when it comes to small businesses, having the resources to navigate changing circumstances and unique business needs is critical. The impact of Covid-19 is one example of the unpredictable circumstances that can drastically shift sustainability-related priorities.
Unlike major corporations, small businesses rarely have the in-house technical expertise to respond to these circumstances and identify energy-savings opportunities. This can be exceptionally difficult and confusing for these organizations and, unfortunately, it’s a major reason many businesses hesitate to pursue these projects.
To help close this gap and enable businesses of all sizes to reap the benefits of energy efficiency, local utilities like Rhode Island Energy can provide technical expertise tailored to your business to help navigate this new and uncertain terrain. From identifying the best cost-savings opportunities to more long-term sustainability goals, utility representatives are a valuable resource at any point of a small business’s sustainability journey.
A no-cost energy assessment is the first step to identify energy-savings recommendations. For small businesses in particular, these assessments are an eye-opening opportunity to understand how energy is easily lost in the day-to-day operations that are often overlooked.
Based on a walk-through, energy-savings project recommendations are made. Some may be as simple as changing light fixtures and making HVAC upgrades. Others may require more custom solutions involving facility-specific equipment. Regardless of the project’s size, energy experts from Rhode Island Energy can help determine the most valuable approach, whether the goal is to transform energy systems or to save on expenses during challenging economic times.
Take, for example, Calise & Sons Bakery in Lincoln, a business that started more than 100 years ago and is renowned for its commitment to the highest-quality products – a mission known as the “Calise Way.” To help ensure continued success, the leadership team embarked on a large-scale upgrade to the facility’s aging HVAC, refrigeration, compressed air and lighting systems. In addition to a focus on safety, the company is passionate about reducing its environmental footprint.
Calise partnered with Rhode Island Energy, Leidos Inc., and RISE Engineering. Rhode Island Energy covered nearly 30% of costs through incentives – a significant savings for the bakery. The equipment upgrades have had a major impact with significant energy cost savings of over $60,000 annually, improved product quality and safety, and a reduced carbon footprint.
This example demonstrates how some projects that may initially seem cost prohibitive actually can be feasible with incentives and financing programs to help meet a small business’s budget and reap immediate paybacks and dividends on the bottom line.
All businesses – large and small – can be more sustainable. Despite challenges like Covid-19 that may arise unexpectedly, businesses can still set and meet energy-efficiency and sustainability goals. A utility partner like Rhode Island Energy can offer added value, helping local businesses embrace energy efficiency as a means of improving business, regardless of what their current priorities and objectives may be.
Are you ready to connect with an energy expert? Rhode Island Energy is here to help. Schedule a no-cost on-site facility assessment today. We’ll identify custom energy-savings recommendations for your business, plus incentives from Rhode Island Energy and financing opportunities.
If you’re a small business, please call 888-633-7947 or visit our website.
If you’re a large business, call 855-RIE-1108 or submit our online form.