An estimated 42% annual cost reduction for both electricity and gas

Highlights

• SPAN faced fluctuating energy rates that were impacting their budget.
• DNE recommended a Load Following program with fixed rates.
• A 42% annual cost reduction for both electricity and gas compared to the regulated program over the previous 12 months
• Savings were redirected to community projects supporting individuals with disabilities.
• SPAN was honored by the NRG during the 2024 Excellence in Energy Awards. It received the Community Award for its philanthropic achievements and leadership in its local community.

About the customer

St. Paul Ability Network (SPAN) is a charitable agency that supports individuals with disabilities or challenging conditions, helping them participate more fully in their community. With an estimated annual electricity consumption of 350,000 kWh and gas consumption of 6,500 GJ, SPAN operates 39 sites offering various living options, including 24-hour supervised care, peer support, and independent living.

SPAN also provides a range of day options, such as senior care, community access, employment opportunities, activities, vacation options, and personal connections to enhance the quality of life for those with disabilities. Additional services include support for brain injury survivors, individuals with mental illness, families needing respite care, and advice on guardianship and personal directives.

In recognition of their outstanding community service and philanthropic leadership, SPAN was recently honored at the 2024 Excellence in Energy Awards presented by NRG. The organization received the prestigious Community Award, acknowledging their significant contributions and dedication to improving lives in local communities.

Challenge: fluctuating energy costs impacting budget stability

St. Paul Ability Network (SPAN) was experiencing significant fluctuations in its energy rates, which created financial instability and unpredictable budgeting. Operating 39 sites with high energy demands, SPAN’s reliance on the open market for electricity and gas led to inconsistent and often elevated costs. This instability was a significant concern for SPAN, a nonprofit organization supporting individuals with disabilities. The fluctuating rates hindered their ability to allocate funds efficiently toward their core mission and community support projects.

Upon contacting SPAN, DNE identified the critical need for a more stable, cost-effective energy solution. SPAN’s desire to reduce its operational costs while ensuring predictable energy expenses became the focal point of the analysis conducted by DNE.

Solution: implementing a load following program for stability and savings

DNE comprehensively analyzed SPAN’s energy consumption and market conditions. The goal was to identify a solution that would stabilize SPAN’s energy costs and provide substantial savings. The analysis revealed that a Load-Following program with competitive fixed rates for electricity and gas would benefit SPAN most.

DNE presented their findings to SPAN, highlighting the potential for significant cost reductions. By transitioning to the Load Following program, SPAN could lock in fixed rates, shielding themselves from market volatility. The estimated annual cost reduction for electricity and gas ranged from 40-47%, translating to savings of approximately $25,000 to $28,000 annually. This strategic move gave SPAN the financial predictability to manage its budget more effectively and allocate resources toward its primary mission.

Results: significant energy savings redirected to community support

Implementing the Load Following program yielded impressive St. Paul Ability Network results. By securing competitive fixed rates, SPAN achieved an estimated annual cost reduction of 40-47% for electricity and gas—this substantial saving of approximately $25,000 to $28,000 annually provided SPAN with additional financial resources.

As a nonprofit organization, SPAN redirected these savings towards community projects and initiatives to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. The cost savings facilitated enhanced support for their various programs, including 24-hour supervised care, peer support, independent living, and day options such as senior care and employment opportunities. Moreover, the savings enabled SPAN to expand its services, offering more activities, vacation options, and personal connections, ultimately enriching the quality of life for those it serves.

The collaboration with DNE stabilized SPAN’s energy costs and empowered them to better fulfill their mission, demonstrating the significant impact of strategic energy management on nonprofit organizations.