| How much does the analysis cost? |
Currently, there is no cost to the owner for CNT Energy’s analysis and technical support services. The costs for the energy analysis are currently covered by our partners. |
| Who is sponsoring the program? |
CNT Energy Savers is funded by a combination of sources, including: private foundations, People’s Gas, the MacArthur Foundation, the City of Chicago and Energy Impact Illinois. |
| How do I apply? |
Complete the simple two-page application. Upon receiving the completed application, we will contact you to schedule an energy analysis. |
| Why do you need my utility information? |
We review 12 months of gas/electrical usage to use in our building energy model. This information is kept strictly confidential. |
| I belong to a condo or a coop, am I eligible? |
The Energy Savers program is only for rental apartment buildings. CNT Energy does provide energy analysis for condo and coop buildings at cost. |
| How do I know if I am eligible? |
You must be the owner of a rental building with 5 or more units in the seven county region (Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will) or the City of Rockford. |
| If my building already receives or will receive other subsidies (such as Section 8 vouchers), am I still eligible? |
Yes, pre-existing or additional assistance does not affect your eligibility. |
| If I enroll in the program, what am I obligated to do? |
You must participate in the energy analysis. You are not required to complete any of the renovation work recommended in the report. |
| Are commercial units eligible for the program? |
No, but if the building is mixed residential and commercial use, the residential units are eligible for the analysis and financing. |
| What is in the report I will get? |
please see the sample report |
| What kind of recommendations will you make? |
Recommendations may range from simple (sealing holes in the façade, installing thermostats) to more complex work (insulating ceiling cavities and boiler replacement). |
| How do you decide what energy saving measures to recommend? |
Recommendations are based on the building energy model, cost benefit analysis, common sense and what is practical for your building. We look at the initial cost, your yearly energy savings and the simple return on your investment (i.e. initial cost divided by yearly savings). Please see the sample report for more information. |
| Do I have to do all the renovations you recommend? |
No, you are not required to perform all the work. However, the energy savings model is integrated using a whole building system approach. If you only fix part of the system, it may be harder to realize your full potential energy savings. |
| How long does the process take? |
Energy analysis are completed on a first-come, first-serve basis. The sooner we receive your completed application, the sooner we can schedule an analysis. Typically, we require 1-2 weeks to schedule the analysis, and 2 weeks to complete the report after collecting field data and receiving the completed application and fuel data. |
| What financing options are available? |
The Community Investment Corporation (CIC) is currently offering an energy loan based on our recommendations at half of the prime rate. Please contact CIC at (312) 258-0070 x 225 for more information or visit their website at www.cicchicago.com |
| Do I have to use CIC’s loan product? |
No, you are free to use any finance source you wish. |
| Where can I enroll my building? |
By Email, mail or fax: info@energysaversprogram.org;: The Center for Neighborhood Technology, 2125 W. North Avenue, Chicago, Il 60647 ; fax #: (773)278-3840 |
| Do I need to provide income verification for tenants to qualify for grant funding? |
No. You will be asked to provide a self-certified letter confirming that your rents fall within the IDHA definition as described below. |
| What does “affordable” mean? |
This standard is set by IDHA (IL Housing Development Authority):
|
Bedroom Size
|
IHDA (80% AMI)
|
| 0 (studio) |
$660.00 |
| 1 |
$706.00 |
| 2 |
$848.00 |
| 3 |
$980.00 |
| 4 |
$1,093.00 |
| 5 |
$1,206.00 |
|
| My building has only 4 units, how can I get an energy analysis? |
You can apply to the LIHEAP weatherization program, or go to a private energy analyst. |
