Utility Rebates Cover 30–70% of Cost
Most electric utilities offer energy efficiency incentive programs that cover a significant portion of compressed air optimization projects. We handle the entire rebate process from application to collection.
Types of Utility Rebates
Multiple rebate pathways exist for compressed air efficiency projects. We identify and pursue the most lucrative option for your facility.
Prescriptive Rebates
$2,000–$15,000Fixed-dollar rebates per sequencer unit installed. Pre-approved amounts make budgeting straightforward with fast processing times.
- Per-unit fixed dollar amount
- No custom measurement required
- Fastest application processing
- Typically paid within 60–90 days
Custom / Performance Rebates
$0.05–$0.15/kWhBased on verified energy savings measured through pre/post monitoring. Higher total rebate potential for larger systems.
- Based on measured kWh savings
- Requires pre/post energy data
- Higher rebate for larger savings
- M&V documentation provided by us
Compressed Air Audit Subsidies
50–100% FundedMany utilities fund comprehensive compressed air audits. These audits identify savings opportunities and serve as rebate pre-qualification.
- CAGI-compliant audit methodology
- Supply and demand side analysis
- Leak survey and quantification
- Rebate pre-qualification included
Custom Rebate Application Process for Sequencer Installations
Custom (performance-based) rebate applications yield the highest incentive dollars for compressed air sequencer projects. Unlike prescriptive rebates with fixed amounts, the custom pathway pays based on actual verified kWh savings—often resulting in 2–5× the rebate value. Here's exactly how the process works.
Pre-Installation Baseline Measurement (2–4 Weeks)
Before any equipment is installed, the utility requires a documented energy baseline of your existing compressed air system.
What We Measure
- Individual compressor kW draw (via power loggers or CT metering)
- System pressure at multiple points (supply, headers, point-of-use)
- Total system flow (CFM) using insertion or inline thermal mass meters
- Compressor run status, load/unload cycles, and blow-off events
- Operating hours by shift, day, and weekend/holiday schedules
Baseline Deliverables
- kW demand profiles at 1-minute intervals (min 2 weeks)
- Specific power calculation: kW per 100 CFM baseline
- Annual energy consumption estimate (kWh/year)
- Load profile analysis identifying waste periods
- Leak load quantification during non-production hours
Custom Application Submission & Pre-Approval
We prepare and submit the formal custom rebate application to your utility's energy efficiency program administrator.
Application Package Includes
Detailed description of the sequencer installation, existing system deficiencies, and expected operational improvements.
Full data logs, load profiles, and calculated annual kWh consumption under current operating conditions.
Engineering analysis showing estimated kWh reduction based on sequencer simulation against baseline demand data.
Allen-Bradley PLC specifications, I/O count, communication protocols, metering equipment, and installation scope.
Itemized project cost including hardware, software, installation labor, commissioning, and M&V monitoring.
Net project cost (after rebate) divided by annual energy savings to demonstrate payback period under utility thresholds.
Important: Most utilities require pre-approval before equipment is purchased or installed. Submitting after installation risks forfeiting the rebate entirely. We coordinate this timeline to ensure approval is secured before the project begins.
Sequencer Installation & Commissioning
With pre-approval in hand, the Allen-Bradley PLC sequencer is installed, programmed, and commissioned on your compressed air system.
PLC Programming
Custom sequencing logic for your specific compressor fleet—load/unload, VFD trim, cascade pressure bands, and fail-safe modes.
Sensor Commissioning
Power meters, flow meters, pressure transducers, and dew point sensors calibrated and verified against reference instruments.
Performance Tuning
Pressure bands, staging delays, and rotation schedules are optimized over 1–2 weeks to maximize efficiency before M&V begins.
Post-Installation Measurement & Verification (2–4 Weeks)
The M&V period captures actual energy performance with the sequencer running, under comparable operating conditions to the baseline.
M&V Methodology (IPMVP Option B)
We follow the International Performance Measurement & Verification Protocol (IPMVP) Option B—Retrofit Isolation with All Parameter Measurement. This is the gold standard accepted by virtually all utility programs for custom compressed air projects.
Final Submission & Rebate Collection
The complete post-installation documentation package is submitted to the utility for final review and rebate payment.
Final Package Contents
- Completed M&V report with verified annual kWh savings
- Final project invoices and proof of payment
- Equipment cut sheets and installation photos
- Commissioning sign-off from facility operations
- Updated simple payback calculation with actual costs and savings
per kWh saved
check processing
typical rebate range
Example: Custom Rebate Calculation for 500 HP System
Baseline (Before Sequencer)
Post-Installation (With Sequencer)
Custom Rebate @ $0.10/kWh saved
$60,480 Rebate
Project payback reduced from 10 months to under 4 months
Additional Rebate-Eligible Measures
Beyond sequencers, many complementary compressed air improvements also qualify for utility incentives.
Our Rebate Process
We manage the complete utility rebate lifecycle so you can focus on operations.
System Assessment
We evaluate your compressed air system and identify all rebate-eligible improvements.
Utility Coordination
We contact your utility, confirm program availability, and submit pre-approval applications.
Installation & M&V
Equipment is installed and we conduct measurement & verification to document energy savings.
Rebate Collection
We prepare and submit all required documentation. You receive your rebate check—typically within 60–90 days.
Don't Leave Money on the Table
We'll identify your utility's available rebate programs and handle all documentation—at no additional cost to you.