Small Business

Reduce energy costs and boost your bottom line with financial incentives for energy-saving equipment upgrades.

With the rising cost of doing business, we know that every penny counts. Energy efficiency is one area of potential cost savings that’s often overlooked. Ameren Illinois offers a wide range of financial incentives to make equipment upgrades and energy efficiency projects more affordable for small business customers.

Starting in 2026, small businesses can now get financial incentives for air leak sealing, insulation and other weatherization measures through the Small Business Direct Install (SBDI) Program. 

Small Business Direct Install Program

The Small Business Direct Install (SBDI) Program offers a simple, streamlined process for small business customers to reduce their energy costs by installing lighting, weatherization and refrigeration products. Our network of trained Program Ally contractors will handle installation, application processing and any questions you may have.

Eligible Financial Incentives Through SBDI Include:

Lighting and Lighting Controls

  • Lighting (interior and exterior)
  • LED tube and fixture replacements
  • Networked lighting controls
  • Occupancy and daylight sensors
  • LED open and exit signs

Weatherization

  • Air sealing
  • Duct insulation
  • Duct sealing
  • Roof/attic insulation
  • Small pipe insulation
  • Wall insulation

Refrigeration Equipment

  • Efficient motors for walk-in/reach-in coolers and freezers
  • Evaporator fan controls for walk-in coolers and freezers
  • Anti-sweat heater controls for reach-in coolers and freezers
  • Cooler/freezer door closers
  • Zero energy doors

Most small businesses are eligible for SBDI incentives including restaurants, convenience stores, gas stations, retail stores, office buildings, nonprofits, municipal buildings, places of worship and more. Click below to find out if your business is eligible.

Don’t miss out on energy savings! Get started by requesting a FREE Energy Consultation to discuss opportunities to boost your bottom line.

In 2024, almost half of all SBDI projects were completed at no cost to the customer!

How it Works

FREE Energy Consultation

Program Ally Contractor performs FREE Energy Consultation.
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Step 1

Receive Assessment Report

Learn how much incentive dollars you will receive and project payback period (if applicable).
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Step 2

Equipment Installation

Program Ally Contractor submits paperwork and completes the equipment installation.
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Step 3

Start Saving!

Energy savings can be reinvested back into your business.
Step 4

Find a Small Business Program Ally

A Small Business Program Ally is a local contractor who is registered with the Ameren Illinois Energy Efficiency Program. A Program Ally can help secure financial incentives on your behalf and complete recommended energy efficiency projects in your facility. Use the interactive map below to find a Small Business Program Ally near you.

2024 Small Business Direct Install Program

$1,284

Customers Served in 2024

$7.65 Million

Total Electric Incentives Paid

46%

of Projects Completed at NO COST to the Customer

80%

Average Projects Costs Covered by Ameren Illinois

12 Months

Average Time for Simple Return on Investment

*Incentive amounts may vary based on project energy savings.

More Ways to Save on Equipment Upgrades

Standard Incentives

Businesses of all sizes and industries can take advantage of standard program incentives on a wide range of equipment and project upgrades.

Online Business Store

Discounted products such as LED lightbulbs, advanced power strips and smart thermostats are available to all Ameren Illinois business customers.

Business Forms Library

Find the latest incentive applications and other forms.

Questions? Call 1.866.800.0747 or email IllinoisBusinessEE@ameren.com.