The Xcel Energy Demand Side Management (DSM) Team operates as a part of the broader Conservation Improvement Program (CIP), regulated by the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC), with contributions from residential and commercial customers, trade partners, and other allies with the goal of reducing energy consumption, utility overhead and CO2 emissions by extension, increasing grid reliability, and positively impacting the relationship customers and workers have with associated facilities. Generally, this is done through various incentive programs, funded by rate payers and Xcel Energy, that reward the installation and utilization of high efficiency equipment, energy management systems (EMS), demand response (DR) agreements, efficiency by design for new construction and renovation projects, and energy audits to identify areas of improvement. Xcel Energy has also partnered with several organizations that offer financing options designed to provide streamlined implementation of efficiency projects, adding value to properties and immediate net positive benefits with relatively short payback periods.

The Colorado C-PACE program enables owners of eligible commercial and industrial buildings to finance up to 100% of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation eligible improvements. Financing is provided by private capital providers at competitive rates with repayment terms up to 25 years. The program can also finance a portion (15-20%) of project costs associated with new construction projects, if these projects build to or exceed the 2015 IECC.

This presentation will provide an overview of Xcel Energy’s incentive programs and other initiatives, commercial utility rates and current DSM programs focusing on the economic benefits and far-reaching potential of energy efficiency improvements, and financing options like the Colorado C-PACE Program. Presenters will be John Schneider, Mid-Market Field Representative, Andrew Peschman, Energy Efficiency Specialist, on behalf of Xcel Energy, and Tracy Phillips, Director of the Colorado C-PACE Program.