Maximizing Energy Savings for Small Business Text Version

This text version of the small business overview video explains the benefits of and the three steps needed to make small commercial buildings energy efficient, including various resources and financing options.

Narrator: There is nothing small about the impact small commercial buildings have on U.S. energy use. In fact, the 4.6 million small buildings across the nation, many of which house small businesses, consume 44% of the overall energy used in buildings.

Therefore, small business owners have a big opportunity to save money and energy, while cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

Drawing of a small business, with icons indicating lowering operating costs, decreasing environmental impact, and enhancing brand image.

Narrator: Are you a small business owner who is interested in lowering your operating costs, decreasing your environmental impact, and enhancing your brand image?

Well, these are just some of the potential benefits you can enjoy when you increase your building’s energy efficiency.

Drawing of a small business owner looking puzzled.

Small business owner: Sounds great, but I am not sure I have the money, nor time, to pursue something like that.

Drawing of computer screen, showing NREL’s small business website.

Narrator: No problem! Luckily for you, there are a number or resources and financing options available through the NREL Buildings website.

Onscreen text:

  • Reduce operating costs
  • Lower utility bills
  • Increase profits
  • Improve indoor environmental quality
  • Increase rental income and future value of real-estate asset
  • Increase marketability of products or services
  • Enhance brand image

Narrator: A number of agencies, such as the Small Business Administration, offer government-backed loan programs that can be used to improve the energy efficiency of your building. These improvements have both energy and non-energy related benefits.

Drawing of money, buildings, machinery, and furniture.

Narrator: Loans up to $5.5 million dollars can be taken out and can used for real estate purchases, building construction and renovation, renewable energy installations, as well as the purchase of equipment, machinery, furniture, fixtures, supplies, and materials.

Drawing of a community of small businesses.

Narrator: Join the community of sustainable small business owners today to reap the environmental, social, and financial benefits.

Onscreen text: Visit www.nrel.gov/small-business.html for more information and next steps.

Narrator: Visit www.nrel.gov/small-business.html for more information and next steps.

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