ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – This Earth Day, Escanaba residents and businesses can save energy–and some cash–thanks to the Energy Optimization Program.
Anyone who gets their electricity through the City of Escanaba can apply for the Energy Optimization Program. It was started more than a decade ago due to a state mandate.
“In 2021, the mandate ended for municipal utilities,” said City Electric Utility Director Gerald Pirkola. “Escanaba decided to continue a program. We offer energy rebates to our customers for ENERGY STAR type products, LED lighting.”
Pioneer TV & Appliance on Ludington Street offers a wide selection of approved ENERGY STAR products.
“Refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, all that kind of stuff is going to be ENERGY STAR,” said store manager Dan Derouin. “All the new washing machines–top load washers, front load washers–are going to get ratings, and some of the new dryers now are even considered to be ENERGY STAR as well.”
An ENERGY STAR label means an appliance meets efficiency standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
“For instance, a refrigerator has to meet a certain energy consumption for a yearly amount of energy,” Derouin explained. “Once it gets that criteria, then they get the ENERGY STAR rating.”
The City of Escanaba expanded the Energy Optimization Program this year, so customers can now save more than ever. There is a $7,500 maximum rebate for commercial customers, but there is no limit on savings for residents.
“However, there are limits on each item, like one refrigerator, one freezer, room air conditioners, things like that,” Pirkola said.
Residents and business owners must apply for the program to be eligible for rebates. Once accepted into the program, customers can submit receipts and photos of their new, approved products to the City.
Pirkola says the Energy Optimization Program is a great way to be a little kinder to both your wallet and the planet this Earth Day.
“It’s good to reduce our energy use,” said Pirkola. “It’s just good for the country; it’s good all-around.”
To apply for the Energy Optimization Program, visit escanaba.org/electric. Click here for a list of eligible ENERGY STAR appliances.
Derouin says Pioneer TV & Appliance will help those in the Energy Optimization Program find products that qualify for rebates. The store is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
