The changes occurring at Michigan Saves these days are as frequent as the shifts in Michigan's weather. There's so much big news, so many important advances in the cause of energy efficiency, we decided to create "Smart Energy." This bimonthly newsletter will keep you current on all that is happening at Michigan Saves, and provide a regular opportunity to learn how we can help you and your community.
Helping more people is a good one. Thanks to a partnership with the Opportunity Resource Fund, we are introducing a new program to serve homeowners who didn't qualify for financial packages under our existing underwriting criteria. This is a tremendous advance as we work to unlock the benefits of energy efficiency for every family in this state.
Our Home Energy Loan Program continues to grow, providing nearly $30 million in needed capital across Michigan to help families take control of their energy costs and enjoy a more comfortable home.
We're fresh off jump-starting our Business Energy Financing (BEF) program, where Michigan Saves, with big help from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Michigan Energy Office, encouraged more than $8 million in energy investment in the state's commercial sector. Now, Consumers Energy, DTE Energy, and the Lansing Board of Water and Light are partnering with us to enhance BEF with an array of enticing incentives.
We are diving into the multifamily and public sector markets, continuing our commitment to busting barriers to energy efficiency adoption for everyone in Michigan.
Our public service announcement (PSA) campaign — Avoid Energy Drama — is in full swing across the state, thanks to a deep collaboration with Consumers Energy, DTE Energy, and Dow Chemical. Check out the website and learn how this innovative and fun approach to talking about energy efficiency is helping residents across Michigan become drama-free.
We trust you will find this first edition of Smart Energy informative and motivational. If you have questions, or suggestions for how we can advance the cause of energy efficiency, contact us at info@michigansaves.org.