Year: 2016

Press Release: Michigan Saves Finances More than $80 Million in Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Improvements

December 19, 2016November 17, 2020SmartEnergy

Michigan Saves, a nonprofit organization that provides affordable financing to make energy improvements easier for Michigan energy consumers, has just surpassed $80 million dollars in residential and commercial loans. As a green bank, Michigan Saves stimulates and supports investment in energy-efficiency and renewable energy measures in Michigan homes, businesses and public buildings.

Mid-Michigan’s Premier Running and Fitness Store Takes a Unique Approach to Customer Service

October 27, 2016November 17, 2020SmartEnergy

In today’s highly competitive retail environment, where margins are small and choices are plentiful, businesses are constantly looking for ways to gain an edge. Go-to options include lowering prices, increasing service speed and enhancing product quality and selection. But what about improving customer experience by making energy-efficiency improvements? The people at Playmakers — an award-winning footwear and fitness apparel store — think that might be the factor that tips the scale.

Meet the Board: Rose Tantraphol Discusses How Michigan Saves Board Members Inspire One Another

October 27, 2016November 17, 2020SmartEnergy

Although facts and figures tell the story of Michigan Saves’ extensive efforts to improve energy efficiency in Michigan, we couldn’t do what we do without the talented and dedicated people who help lead the organization. To that end, we’d like to introduce you — our readers — to the Michigan Saves board members. This edition of Smart Energy features Rose Tantraphol, founder and principal of Moonsail North, a startup that uses storytelling and strategy to help innovators communicate and grow.

Governor’s Energy Excellence Awards Affirm Winners’ Commitment to Reducing Energy Waste

July 26, 2016November 17, 2020SmartEnergy

Well-known cultural anthropologist and author Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” These words aptly describe the work of 14 Michiganders who came together in 2015 to create the Governor’s Energy Excellence Awards (GEEA) — a program designed to recognize individuals and organizations that have made implementing energy-efficient practices part of their everyday lives.

Michigan Saves Contest Rouses Contractors’ Competitive Spirit

July 26, 2016November 17, 2020SmartEnergy

If there’s one thing Michigan Saves knows about its authorized contractors — other than that they’re dedicated to helping customers become more energy efficient — it’s that they thrive on friendly competition. That’s why the organization created its spirited Beer and Wings contest.

Michigan Saves Ramps Up Service to Multifamily and Commercial Solar Markets

July 26, 2016November 17, 2020SmartEnergy

What do upgrading drafty windows, improving aging HVAC systems, replacing old light fixtures, sealing air leaks and adding more insulation have in common? They’re all good ways for owners of multifamily dwellings to create a more comfortable living environment for their tenants. Those efforts can also lower energy expenditures, give residential proprietors a competitive edge and keep out pesky bugs and rodents.

Meet the board: Greg Bergtold Talks About How Michigan Saves Benefits His Company’s Customers

July 26, 2016November 17, 2020SmartEnergy

Although facts and figures tell the story of Michigan Saves’ extensive efforts to improve energy efficiency in Michigan, we couldn’t do what we do without the talented and dedicated people who help lead the organization. To that end, we’d like to introduce you—our readers—to the Michigan Saves board members. This edition of Smart Energy features Greg Bergtold, business advocacy director for Dow Building and Construction, a business group within the Dow Chemical Company.

Michigan Saves Partners with Contractors in Creative Ways

April 28, 2016November 17, 2020SmartEnergy

If Staples—the world’s largest office products company—hadn’t trademarked the “easy” button, Michigan Saves probably could have. Through the years, they have tried to make the process of implementing energy-efficiency improvements as easy, affordable and smart as possible for everyone involved, including their authorized contractors.

Michigan Saves’ Unique Win-win Approach Helps Lenders Respond to Customer Needs

April 28, 2016November 17, 2020SmartEnergy

In a time of what often feels like considerable divisiveness, Michigan Saves stands out as an organization committed to helping and uniting the many players involved in improving energy efficiency.

Michigan Saves Collaborates with Other Organizations to Help Schools Reduce Their Energy Footprint

April 28, 2016November 17, 2020SmartEnergy

Imagine you’re the facilities director or a business official for a Michigan school district and someone tells you there is a way to put money back into the general fund, lower maintenance costs, reduce the district’s energy footprint and, most importantly, improve the learning environment for students. Sound too good to be true?