We developed this project in response to a growing local­level demand for information and
guidance on accessing local, state, and federal energy financing programs. Knowledge regarding
these programs is currently scattered across independent websites and agencies, making it
difficult for a lay user to identify available options for funding energy efficiency efforts. We
collaborated with The Ecology Center, an Ann Arbor nonprofit, to develop an information­based
tool that would provide tailored recommendations to small businesses and organizations in need
of financing to meet their energy efficiency aspirations. The tool was developed for use by The
Ecology Center along with an implementation plan to strengthen their outreach to local
stakeholders and assist their efforts in reducing Michigan’s energy consumption. We researched
and analyzed existing clean energy and energy efficiency policies and financing opportunities
available from local, state, federal, and utility entities for institutions in the educational, medical,
religious, and multi­family housing sectors. The design and content of the tool and its
accompanying educational materials was influenced by a series of social surveys and interviews
conducted with local business and nonprofit representatives. The surveys and interviews
revealed the level of existing institutional knowledge on energy efficiency, local barriers to
accessing financing and implementing projects, and the motivations and concerns of individuals
regarding efficiency upgrades. The resulting information tool will help fulfill the project’s goal
of improving accessibility to energy efficiency financing for qualified stakeholders in
Washtenaw and Oakland Counties.