In recognition of the significant energy savings, along with other energy-saving practices (such as shutting off lights when not in use and using electric fans to reduce air conditioner use), World of Carpets received national recognition with the Sixth Annual ENERGY STAR Small Business Network Award.

Since the Small Business Energy Alliance’s Energy Savers Program paid for 75% of the installation cost with public goods funding, the new lighting at Cline Cellars will pay for itself in less than six months. “Thanks to the Small Business Energy Alliance, productivity and profits are up, and we’re doing our part to keep Sonoma County green,” explained Peggy.

Since state-sponsored funding from the SBEA paid for half of the costs, Henry’s share of the lighting retrofit was about $3,000. With monthly savings of approximately $330, his payback period will prove to be less than a year. “With solar electric systems, the payback ranges from five to 15 years,” explained Henry. “A payback of less than one year is a no brainer.”

Since the Small Business Energy Alliance’s Energy Savers Program paid for 50% of the installation cost with state-sponsored energy efficiency funding, the new lighting at Valley Wine Warehouse will pay for itself in approximately one year. “The Small Business Energy Alliance has helped us improve our operation, our client service and our bottom line,” said Don Wittschiebe, business manager of Valley WineWarehouse.