New Construction FAQs
What is the UniSource New Construction program?
The UniSource Commercial New Construction Program (“Program”) provides rebates to UniSource’s non-residential customers for the installation of energy-efficiency equipment in new construction.
Can anyone participate in the program?
No. The program is only available to non-residential customers within the UniSource service area.
Which energy efficiency measures are included in the program?
Rebates are provided for qualified equipment commonly installed in new construction projects. Qualified equipment and documentation is listed within the measure worksheets. Customers must present their case for an energy efficient building design.
How do I know if my building or design qualifies for a rebate?
Simply fill out an application and worksheet. You will need to compare your building or building design to an industry-recognized design standard. This standard design will be referred to as a base case. If your building or design uses less energy than the base case, it is likely that you will qualify for a rebate. The Societal Cost Test (SCT), as calculated by the UniSource Business Energy Solutions team, must be greater than 1.0.
What is the base case design?
The base case refers to an industry standard, ASHRAE 90.1 2010, which is commonly used when designing and constructing new buildings. New buildings are required to be built to at least IECC 2012/ASHRAE 90.1 2010 standards. Building above this standard typically results in a more energy efficient building.
How do I submit an application for the program?
It’s easy! Follow the Application Process here.
Is there a limit on the rebate amounts?
Yes. The program is designed to pay rebates for projects with a maximum rebate of 50 percent of each incremental measure cost (the difference between the cost of installing a high-efficiency piece of equipment and lower-cost standard equipment). The maximum rebate amount that a customer can receive in a calendar year for a new building construction project is $75,000 per project.
I understand that funding through this program is limited. Can I reserve funding in advance of the project installation?
Yes, in fact submitting a Pre-Notification Application is required. Simply download the Application Form (coming soon) from the website, note “Pre-Application” at the top of the first page and complete the application and worksheets. Submit the completed materials along with supporting documentation to UniSource’s Business Energy Solutions program by email or U.S. mail. Funding for projects approved through the Pre-Notification Application process will be reserved for 90 days.
Submit a Final Application along with the appropriate documentation within 60 days of project completion, before the funding reservation end date or by December 1 of the program year, whichever is earlier. Incentives are not guaranteed as funding for this program is limited. Interested customers are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.
I would like to apply for a rebate for a new building, but the project may be delayed and not completed within 90 days. Can I receive an extension to reserve my funding?
Yes, applicants may request a one-time 30-day extension for their project but may not be granted. Extension requests are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. To request an extension, contact the Business Energy Solutions team in writing prior to the expiration of the 90-day reservation.
Do I have to send in a Pre-Notification Application for my project to apply for a rebate?
Yes. Applications submitted without a reservation will be ineligible for a rebate.
Can I assign the rebate check to a third party?
Yes. A customer can designate who should receive the rebate check by including this information on their application. The third party must sign the application and provide a completed and signed W9.
When will I receive my rebate check?
Rebate checks will be issued in approximately six weeks of receipt of the final application and all necessary documentation.
How can I get more information about the program?
It’s easy!
Email: ces@uesaz.com
Free Rebate Assessment
These free assessments help our customers identify energy-saving opportunities and potential rebates for qualifying businesses, schools and nonprofit organizations.