Large-Customer Energy Analysis Program (LEAP)

Summary

The Large-Customer Energy Analysis Program (LEAP) works with large energy users such as manufacturers, hospitals, large commercial buildings, universities, and local governments to help manage and reduce energy costs by making cost-effective efficiency improvements. LEAP involves key facility decision-makers and focuses on measures that can bring high returns with modest investments. It also identifies incentive opportunities large energy users can utilize from the energy efficiency programs offered by Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and some Illinois utilities (Commonwealth Edison and Ameren Illinois) as part of the Illinois Energy Efficiency Portfolio. Participants in the program usually have energy costs greater than $500,000 per year and are typically able to reduce energy use by 10%-30%.

The DCEO offers a three step energy management planning program pathway.

• The Sustainable Energy Workshop: A day long workshop that teaches large energy users how to develop a plan designed to assist organizations with managing their energy expenditures more effectively, reduce energy usage, and achieve results that will improve business performance. The workshops typically consist of 2-3 staff from each of 12-17 entities, and will be conducted at several locations in the state. The large energy user pays a fee to cover some of the costs of the workshop.
• Utilivate Consulting and Coaching (up to 25 hrs.): Assists large energy users in developing a strategic energy plan and identifying cost-effective energy efficiency measures. Technical services may include an energy performance baseline, an energy audit, energy mandate, and implementation strategies.
• Lessons Learned Workshop: Held six months after the initial workshop, this workshop provides participants an opportunity to share their experiences in developing the sustainable energy plan and discuss strategies for implementing energy efficiency programs and projects.