Energy upgrade California: Helping small businesses save

In California, clean energy is an important topic. Whether we’re looking to conserve water or protect our forests and beaches, clean energy and energy efficiency efforts are important to helping our state thrive. But one thing people don’t always realize is the economic importance of clean energy to small businesses. Clean energy can help small businesses reduce costs so they can put more money into growing and hiring, and there are lots of great programs – like Energy Upgrade California – that can help businesses invest to capture these savings.                                                                                                 

Clean energy has stemmed enormous economic growth in California. For instance, since the passage of clean energy legislation in 2006, California has secured $27 billion in private investments for the clean energy industry. And since 1978, energy efficiency standards have saved Californians $66 billion. There’s no doubt these benefits have helped small businesses, which is why it’s no surprise Small Business Majority’s polling found 87 percent of small business owners believe that improving innovation and energy efficiency are good ways to increase prosperity for small businesses.

Unfortunately, some small business owners may not know how to maximize their clean energy benefits and savings. The good news is that Energy Upgrade California offers a tremendous wealth of resources for small businesses that are looking to go green.

Energy Upgrade California provides tips for small businesses on how to invest in energy-efficient appliances, how to “weatherize” buildings to reduce energy usage and how to save energy by making simple changes in daily business routines. Energy Upgrade California even has tips on how to get started with solar power, geothermal and other forms of clean energy. Plus, the organization can connect small business owners to contractors, programs, incentives and financing to help transition to energy efficiency.

“Small business owners know energy costs are expensive,” said Xiomara Peña, Southern California Outreach Manager for Small Business Majority. “They want to invest in energy efficiency to increase savings, but they often don’t know where to start. Energy Upgrade California provides a toolkit for small business owners looking to take the next step with energy savings.”

The best part about Energy Upgrade California is that it’s a one-stop shop for small businesses. To learn more and get started with energy savings today, visit: www.energyupgradeca.org.