Small Business
Reduce energy costs and boost your bottom line by taking advantage of 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 on wasted energy can be reinvested back into your business. But the benefits of energy efficiency go beyond just cost savings!
Studies have shown that 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 Energy-Saving Equipment Upgrades
Ameren Illinois offers a number of ways for small business customers to save on energy-saving equipment upgrades:
Small Business Direct Install (SBDI) Program
SBDI is designed specifically for small business customers to reduce their energy costs through the direct installation of lighting and refrigeration products. Scroll down for more information!
Standard Incentives
Businesses of all sizes and industries can take advantage of standard program incentives on 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!
*Source: EnergyStar.gov
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
Not only do these incentives assist with the cost of installation — there is no limit on measure quantities or incentive amounts!
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 the link 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.
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.
2023 SBDI Project Data
The numbers are in, and 2023 was another banner year for SBDI Program! Last year, 1,886 SBDI projects were completed in the Ameren Illinois service territory — with more than $11.5 million in electric incentives paid to small business customers.
$11,548,245
Electric Incentives Paid
14 Months
Average Time for Simple Return on Investment on SBDI Projects
1,886
Small Business Projects in 2023
106
Program Allies With Completed Projects
32%
of SBDI Projects Completed at No Cost to the Customer
$2,918
Average Customer Co-Pay When Applicable
*2023 Small Business Direct Install Initiative Data
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.
