Cash incentives from Energy Trust of Oregon and any available tax credits may help cover costs and reduce payback periods on many measures.
If major energy improvements stretch your budget, check out the Oregon Energy Loan program from the Oregon Department of Energy. The program offers low-interest loans for energy conservation, renewable energy and other projects.
Typical measures and payback periods*
- Replace T12 fluorescent fixtures with high-performance T8 lamps and electronic ballasts and save 40 percent or more: 2- to 4-year payback
- Install occupancy sensors to control lights in areas that are frequently unoccupied, such as laundry rooms, bathrooms, storage areas and other common areas: 2- to 5-year payback
- Install LED exit signs and save 90 percent over incandescent signs: 2- to 3-year payback
- Upgrade to a high-efficiency chiller: 2- to 4-year payback
- Upgrade HVAC controls: two to four year payback
- Install new ENERGY STAR® ice maker or food service equipment: 2- to 4-year payback
- Install package terminal or mini-split heat pumps. These units provide both heating and cooling and are much more efficient than electric baseboard heating units: 7-year payback is possible.
*Your actual results will vary based on energy use and energy-efficiency measures.
When is the right time to replace equipment?
- Equipment is nearing the end of its useful life
- Expansion requires an upgrade to existing equipment
- Existing equipment is unreliable, requiring costly, time-consuming repairs
- Air conditioning costs are high
- HVAC is difficult to control or provides unsatisfactory space conditioning