Focus on Energy, MG&E Assist Saeman Lumber with Energy Efficiency Upgrades

CROSS PLAINS – Dane County’s oldest lumber and building supply dealer is saving energy and money thanks to an incentive from Wisconsin’s Focus on Energy program.

Saeman Lumber Co. has operated at the same Cross Plains location for 140 years. Its fourth-generation owner, Bob Saeman, knew its lighting and HVAC equipment were in need of upgrades.

The payback on that investment is quickened thanks to a $6,966 incentive from Focus on Energy’s Small Business Incentive Program.

Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) supplies Saeman Lumber’s electric and natural gas needs. MGE and 107 other Wisconsin utilities partner with Focus on Energy to help eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses install cost-effective energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.

Saeman worked with two area Focus on Energy Trade Allies, BayBrookes Heating and Cooling of Sauk City and Nelson Electric of Cross Plains, to upgrade an inefficient HVAC system and replace outdated lighting fixtures with LED (light emitting diode) technology. Each were familiar with Saeman’s facilities and the incentive requirements necessary to make the projects happen.

Since 2001, Focus on Energy information, resources and financial incentives have helped businesses and homeowners to implement projects that otherwise would not get completed (or completed much sooner than scheduled).

A January 10 gathering at Saeman Lumber celebrated their energy and cost savings thanks to the recently completed projects.

By saving an estimated 6.0 kilowatts (and 22,700 kilowatt hours) of electricity and 60 therms of natural gas in the first year, Saeman Lumber looks to save approximately $2,900 in energy costs. The project has the added value of helping to avoid potential future demand charges. In addition to saving energy and money, the upgrades have improved employee comfort and provide a higher quality of light. Saeman Lumber Co. is located at 1923 Market Street, near Highway 14 in Cross Plains.

Focus on Energy helps Wisconsin residents and businesses manage rising energy usage, promotes in-state economic development and conserves natural resources. For more information on how Focus on Energy can help your bottom line, visit www.focusonenergy.com.