Nonprofit Cultural Institution
Business Activity: Nonprofit, Museum
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Project: Energy Efficiency, Energy Purchasing, Management Services
One of Chicago’s premier not-for-profit cultural institutions initially engaged Sieben Energy Associates (SEA) to conduct an Energy Issues Assessment. Through this process, the client recognized the value in working with a knowledgeable energy consultant to limit energy price risks, improve operational efficiency, and reduce their carbon footprint. Since the initial assessment over seven years ago, SEA has partnered with the client on a continual basis to provide ongoing energy management, efficiency, and purchasing services.
The Energy Issues Assessment provided the client with a comprehensive evaluation of their energy purchasing practices, building energy consumption, and energy information administration. SEA reviewed existing practices, performed building walk-throughs, and interviewed physical plant staff to fully understand the client’s current energy profile and future needs. The firm also provided broader consulting expertise regarding energy markets, expansion plans, and grant opportunities to help underwrite energy-saving improvements. SEA’s team of analysts, engineers, and principals worked closely with the organization to develop a report detailing these findings.
Following this assignment, the client engaged SEA on a long-term basis for energy management and consulting services. Through timely negotiation of electricity supply contracts and hedging natural gas requirements, SEA has saved the organization millions of dollars relative to tariff or existing contract rates. Despite the energy efficiency challenges of the client’s carefully climate-controlled facilities, SEA’s energy audits still identified measures to cut energy usage. The firm’s energy management team has even discovered utility billing errors that have saved the organization thousands of dollars.
Sieben Energy Associates is a valuable resource for the client’s Departments of Operations and Physical Plant, helping senior leadership navigate shifting energy trends and manage risks. SEA ‘s energy management team monitors the organization’s position relative to energy market trends and provides timely counsel on purchasing strategies. In addition, SEA produces customized monthly energy consumption and cost reports that not only provide up-to-date figures, but also articulate what they mean and address potential causes of fluctuation. SEA’s results-driven strategies continue to help this client make informed energy decisions that support their organizational mission, minimize their environmental impact, and strengthen their bottom line.