The logo of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power is shown on January 9, 2014. (AP Photo/Nick Ut)

If you’re a small to medium-sized business owner or own property with five or more units, then you know energy bills can get expensive. 

That’s why the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power is helping qualified property owners lower their utility bills for free.

LADWP partnered with the Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce on Thursday to inform dozens of small business owners about the Commercial Direct Install Program, designed to help them save money on energy costs.  Willdan is the certified CDI program installer, according to LADWP. 

“The installation is free and it lowers their monthly bills,” said JC Lacey, president of the Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a big help to the local businesses.”

Who qualifies for the program?

  • LADWP non-residential electric customers whose average monthly demand is less than or equal to 250 kW
  • Renters are eligible with landlord approval 
  • Multifamily properties (5+ units) can qualify for upgrades to common areas 
  • Accounts for those qualified must be in good standing

What will businesses receive?

  • Free energy-efficient equipment and installation 
  • No upfront cost, no hidden fees
  • Immediate energy and cost savings 
  • Minimal disruption to operations

What upgrades are available?

  • Lighting upgrades (LED fixtures and lamps)
  • LED exit signs
  • High-efficiency electric water heaters called heat pump water heaters 
  • Refrigeration improvements like electronically commutated motors, LED case lighting, door closers and  anti-sweat heater controls

How does the process work?

  • Qualify: Submit interest using this form or contacting Willdan by email or their customer support by phone (​​877-714-1254) to confirm eligibility
  • Assess: LADWP performs a free assessment onsite and recommends upgrades and estimated energy cost savings 
  • Installation: A CDI subcontractor completes upgrades completed at no cost 

Here’s how to apply

Visit LADWP’s Commercial Direct Install website, email Willdan at ladwp-cdi@willdan.com or call their customer support at (877) 714-1254.

My background: I was raised in LA’s Crenshaw District and spent nearly a decade as an educator in the Los Angeles Unified School District before starting my journalism career in TV news. I was a broadcast news reporter for 14 years.

What I do: I cover Inglewood and South LA as a reporter for The LA Local. I’m honored to be a part of community-powered news in Los Angeles and helping people tell their stories.

Why LA: LA is my home and after living all over the country, there’s no other place I’d rather be. The weather, the diversity, the global appeal and the laid-back vibe is just what I need.

The best way to contact me: My email is lamonica@thelalocal.org.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *