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Programs  >  BetterBuildings NWO  >  How It Works

Contact

For media inquiries and additional information, please contact:

Carla Firestone Nowak 
or Holly Kemler
One Maritime Plaza
Suite 701
Toledo, OH 43604-1866
Phone: 419.243.8251
Fax: 419.243.1835

How the BetterBuildings NWO Program Works

  • First, schedule an initial meeting or phone call to discuss the process and eligibility by emailing  BetterBuildings Northwest Ohio or calling the BetterBuildings office at 419.702.1102.
  • The application is available here for your review and use.
  • Basic information includes:  Entity name, address and contact information (if private company - the owners’ names), type of business, company structure and location where energy efficiency equipment will be installed.
  • Three years of financial statements and most recent interim statements, list of creditors and for privately held companies: ownership percentages and guarantor information.  A pre-approved financial amount can be provided if desired.
  • To be eligible, projects must be energy efficiency upgrades to an existing building.  Renewable energy can be incorporated with government facilities. For commercial projects, renewable energy must be part of a broader energy efficiency effort.
Step 1. Application
Schedule a meeting with the BetterBuildings office at 419.702.1102.
  • Determining cost effective energy efficiency begins with an energy analysis, also referred to as an energy evaluation.  You may select a company or individual to perform the evaluation and if so, the Energy Professional will need to be approved by the BetterBuildings Program.  BetterBuildings can also provide an Energy Professional or provide pre-approved Energy Professionals for the selection.    
  • The evaluation must be completed by a qualified professional such as a Certified Energy Manager (CEM) or Professional Engineer (PE).  For larger buildings with multiple systems, an investment grade energy evaluation - ASHRE Level Three (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating & Air Condition Engineers) is used.  For lighting projects a Lighting Certified (LC), Certified Lighting Efficiency Professional (CLEP), or Certified Lighting Management Consultant (CLMC) professional is utilized. 
  • For projects which incorporate advance technologies or renewable energy, a project and technology review (feasibility study) may be required.  The BetterBuildings program advisors can assist with this process. 
  • All projects must be technically and economically feasible.  The report provided from the energy assessment will recommend several energy conservation measures with energy savings, equipment cost and pay backs.
Step 2. Energy Assessment
Determining cost effective energy efficiency begins with an energy assessment, also referred to as an energy audit.
  • Once the energy analysis is received, decisions need to be made by the borrower about the size and the scope of the project, the desired term of the financing and the project payback.
  • Most companies or business entities will obtain their internal approvals at this time.  A government or school will go through appropriate legislative and/or board reviews and approvals. BetterBuildings program advisors can provide support for these processes.
Step 3. Plan & Approve
Most companies or business entities will obtain their internal approvals at this time.
  • The BetterBuildings financing and documentation process is designed to run parallel with the processes above to insure that the project is approved and ready to go.
  • BetterBuildings provide access to long-term fixed rate investment grade financing.
  • The Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) is designed to provide funds immediately for implementation and construction.  The RLF also acts to package smaller transactions for effective long-term financing. 
  • The RLF is part of the Northwest Ohio Bond Fund, which has been in existence for over 20 years and provides long-term fixed rate financing for up to 10 years for equipment (can be longer depending on useful life).
Step 4. Finance & Document
The BetterBuildings financing and documentation process is designed to run parallel with the processes above.
  • The BetterBuildings program recommends receiving three proposals or bids for the work to complete your energy efficiency project.
  • If you are unsure how to manage and implement the project, or lack the resources, BetterBuildings program advisors can provide guidance or management assistance.
Step 5. Implement & Construct
The BetterBuildings program recommends receiving three proposals or bids for the work.
  • The energy analysis measures total energy usage and projects annual energy savings.
  • We are required to report to the national Department of Energy BetterBuildings Program the number of energy analyses, completed upgrades, energy savings, competed financing, and hours worked.  We will verify savings after the implementation and will provide the support to do so. 
Step 6. Measure & Verify
The energy assessment measures total energy usage and projects annual energy savings.
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