Small Business Energy Audit Program

Topics:

Energy

The Small Business Energy Audit program, administered by the Iowa Economic Development Authority, provides federal grant funding to support energy audits for eligible small commercial businesses in Iowa. The program encourages energy efficiency improvements that reduce energy consumption and operating costs. 

Eligibility

  • Commercial building owned or operated by a small business with fewer than 50 employees
  • Business conducts the majority of its operations in Iowa

Audit Requirements

Audits must be conducted by an auditor with nationally recognized certification and completed using the U.S. Department of Energy’s Audit Template software. The audit must:

  • Quantify overall energy consumption and identify peak demand periods and levels
  • Recommend life cycle cost-effective energy reduction opportunities, controls and management systems
  • Estimate total projected energy and cost savings if recommended upgrades and retrofits are implemented

Cost Share

  • The Iowa Economic Development Authority will reimburse 50% of the audit cost upon completion of the audit. The remaining 50% will be reimbursed when the business begins implementation of at least one audit-recommended energy-saving upgrade.
  • Energy-saving upgrades identified in the audit may qualify for reduced-interest financing through the  Iowa Energy Saving Loan Program.

Funding Availability

Total funding available: $900,000

Application Process

  • Applications will be accepted until May 1, 2029, or until funds are fully obligated.
  • Applications should be submitted to molly.kiick@iowaeda.com.

Selection and Compliance

Applications will be funded in the order received, contingent upon meeting eligibility and program requirements.

All awards must comply with applicable federal regulations, including the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR):

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