September 2026 Newsletter
In this month's issue:
- ComEd Clean Energy Solutions
- Low-Interest Loans for Clean Energy Businesses
- Technology Primers from the Hub
- New on the Podcast: Jessica Miller & Chyanne Husar
- Hub Events: Intro to Luminaire Level Lighting Controls Technology
- Partner Events: Unlocking Stretch Code Resources & More!
Looking for ways to reduce energy costs and improve building performance? The Hub now features the ComEd Clean Energy Solutions page, providing members with easy access to information on energy efficiency, incentive opportunities, technical assistance, project support, and educational resources.
Whether you're planning facility upgrades, evaluating energy-saving projects, or looking for resources to share with customers, this convenient hub makes it easy to access the tools and guidance you need. From lighting and HVAC improvements to other building efficiency measures, you'll find practical information to help identify cost-saving opportunities and move projects forward.
State Small Business Credit Initiative:
Low-Interest Loans for Clean Energy Businesses
Illinois small businesses working in clean energy can access low-interest loans through the Illinois Climate Bank's SSBCI program. Loans range from $25,000 to $2 million at a flat rate of 1–2% annually, with terms up to 7 years. Eligible projects include solar, wind, EV charging, energy conservation, and more. Businesses must have fewer than 750 employees and operate in Illinois.
Hub Resources: Technology Primers
The Building Energy Hub offers free Technology Primers to introduce an array of audiences to high-performance technology in buildings. These solutions can help cut energy costs and improve comfort in your building. Explore technologies for weatherization, lighting, and HVAC for your building.
New on The Building Energy Pod
In this episode, Jessica Miller, Chief Program Officer at the Institute for Market Transformation, discusses the translation work at the heart of decarbonizing buildings: turning policy into something local partners can actually use, building trust with community organizations, and designing rules that work for owners, tenants, and government at the same time.
Chyanne Husar,
founder and CEO of HUSARCH, sat down with us to explore how a traditional architecture firm can evolve into a broader sustainability and energy efficiency practice. She explains how peer networks like AIA and Illinois Green helped her find support, build cross-sector connections, and move from single-building work into portfolio-scale impact.
Upcoming Hub Events
Introduction to Luminaire Level Lighting Controls Technology
Join us for a virtual session on Luminaire-Level Lighting Controls (LLLC)— a lighting system that combines LED lighting with integrated sensors and controls at each fixture to create a flexible, networked lighting system. LLLC is relevant for building professionals interested in practical approaches to high-performing buildings.
So You Have Benchmarking Data, Now What?
This session helps building owners and managers in Chicago, Evanston, and Oak Park put their benchmarking data to work. Staff from each jurisdiction will kick things off with important local program updates, followed by a look at the BEAM platform and the data summary and analysis options available through it.
Upcoming Partner Events
Understanding the Future of Rooftop HVAC: Efficiency, Comfort, and Intelligent Control
Sponsored by Carrier
September 30 | Virtual
With increasing demands for energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and sustainability, rooftop equipment must deliver more than ever before. Join Carrier experts for an in-depth look at the new WeatherExpert® 48/50WE rooftop unit with Puron Advance™ refrigerant.
Unlocking Stretch Code Resources: How Illinois Communities Can Access up to $1 million in New Climate Bank Funding
Hosted by Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance
October 6 | Virtual
Join MEEA, the Illinois Finance Authority Climate Bank, and the City of Evanston for a webinar exploring a funding opportunity available to communities pursuing the Illinois Stretch Energy Code. Learn how municipalities can leverage this grant resource to support local climate goals, and accelerate high-performance building practices. Speakers will share program details, eligibility considerations, and practical insights from real-world implementation efforts.
Office of Economic Equity & Empowerment Webinars: Financial Resources for Small Businessesg
Hosted by the Office of Economic Equity & Empowerment (OE3)
October 7 | Virtual
Is access to financial capital important for your business? The Office Economic Equity & Empowerment (OE3) Business Development Managers invite you to an online conversation to learn more. Team OE3 will share the latest financial resources across multiple sectors, federal and state programs, and other opportunities for your business. As Team OE3 will answer any questions you may have about your business, we can take your questions in English and Spanish.
