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
Incentive Types
- Lighting (interior and exterior)
- LED tube and fixture replacements
- Networked lighting controls
- Occupancy and daylight sensors
- LED open and exit signs
Weatherization
Incentive Types
- Air sealing
- Duct insulation
- Duct sealing
- Roof/attic insulation
- Small pipe insulation
- Wall insulation
Refrigeration Equipment
Incentive Types
- 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
Additional incentives are available through SBDI for smart thermostats, demand-controlled ventilation and advanced power strips.
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 2025, more than half of all SBDI projects were completed at no cost to the customer!
How SBDI Works
FREE Energy Consultation
Receive Assessment Report
Equipment Installation
Start Saving!
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.
2025 Small Business Direct Install Program
1,282
Customers Served in 2025
$10.87 Million
Total Incentives Paid
58%
of Projects Completed at NO COST to the Customer
80%
Average Project Costs Covered by Ameren Illinois
8 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.
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