Small Business
Reduce energy costs and boost your bottom line with financial incentives for energy-saving equipment upgrades.
Lighting and HVAC equipment account for the majority of a business’s energy usage. The less energy consumed, the less you will spend — and every dollar saved can be reinvested back into your business. But the benefits of energy efficiency go beyond just cost savings! Improving light quality with LEDs can boost workplace productivity and employee satisfaction, while high-efficiency HVAC systems improve indoor air quality and enhance occupant health.
Ways to Save on Equipment Upgrades
Ameren Illinois offers a number of ways for small business customers to save on energy-efficient equipment upgrades:
Small Business Direct Install (SBDI)
SBDI is designed specifically for small business customers to reduce energy costs through the direct installation of lighting and refrigeration products.
Standard Incentives
Businesses of all sizes and industries can take advantage of standard program incentives on a wide range of equipment and project upgrades.
Online Business Store
Discounted products such as LED lightbulbs, advanced power strips for small appliances and smart thermostats are available to all Ameren Illinois business customers.
Instant Incentives
Get point-of-purchase discounts from participating distributors on central air conditioners, heat pump water heaters, air source heat pumps and more – no application necessary!
Small Business Direct Install Program
The Small Business Direct Install (SBDI) Program offers a simple, streamlined process for small business customers to reduce their energy costs by installing lighting and refrigeration products through a registered Program Ally contractor. Financial incentives are available for a variety of energy-efficiency projects — and our network of trained Program Allies will handle installation, application processing and any questions you have.
Eligible Financial Incentives Through SBDI Include:
Lighting (interior and exterior)
LED tube and fixture replacements
Networked lighting controls
Efficient motors for walk-in/reach-in coolers and freezers
Evaporator fan controls for walk-in coolers and freezers
Anti-sweat heater controls for reach-in coolers and freezers
In 2024, almost half of all SBDI projects were completed at no cost to the customer!
A wide range of small businesses are eligible for SBDI incentives, from restaurants, convenience stores and gas stations to retail stores, nonprofits, municipal buildings, places of worship and more. Click below to find out if your business is eligible.
Don’t miss out on energy savings! Get started by requesting a FREE Energy Assessment to discuss opportunities for upgrades to boost your business’s bottom line.
How it Works
FREE Energy Consultation
Receive Assessment Report
Equipment Installation
Start Saving!
Find a Small Business Program Ally
A Small Business Program Ally is a local contractor who is registered with the Ameren Illinois Energy Efficiency Program. A Program Ally can help secure financial incentives on your behalf and complete recommended energy efficiency projects in your facility. Use the interactive map below to find a Small Business Program Ally near you.
2024 Small Business Direct Install Program
$1,284
Customers Served in 2024
$7.65 Million
Total Electric Incentives Paid
46%
of Projects Completed at NO COST to the Customer
80%
Average Projects Costs Covered by Ameren Illinois
12 Months
Average Time for Simple Return on Investment
*Incentive amounts may vary based on project energy savings.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Request a FREE Energy Consultation to take your next step in saving energy and money.
Questions? Call 1.866.800.0747 or email IllinoisBusinessEE@ameren.com.
