Turning off all computers and related equipment from 6 pm to 8 am M-F saves $90.00 per work station annually. Turning off lights from 8 pm to 8 am M-F saves 7% to 12% per year.

Staff participation in a “Turn-It Off” Campaign Lights, computers, equipment, fans etc.

Convert incandescent light bulbs with Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) which last much longer and use about 35 percent as much energy to produce an equivalent amount of light.

Programmable Thermostats improve energy efficiency:
Winter: 72 occupied, 66 un-occupied
Summer: 72 occupied, 76 un-occupied
A one degree reduction saves 5% per year.

Purchase HVAC systems, computer equipment, refrigeration, and appliances with Energy Star labels.

Implement Lighting Projects:
Convert incandescent light bulbs with Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) which last much longer and use about 35 percent as much energy to produce an equivalent amount of light.

Chambers of Commerce

Deregulation legislation allows Maryland commercial customers to stay with their current energy supplier or purchase on a contract basis from a licensed supplier. CQI Associates developed the concept of Chamber of Commerce-sponsored energy purchasing cooperatives in 2003 starting with the Ocean City, Maryland Chamber of Commerce .

Today, we remain the industry leader in this exciting new program designed to help small to mid sized businesses realize long-term budget stability. Chambers of Commerce are built upon the core concept of many businesses coming together to accomplish what no one business can do alone. Energy Purchasing Cooperatives are based upon the same premise – bringing your members together to procure energy at rates lower than any single member can purchase it on their own.

The first goal of this initiative is to provide education to Maryland businesses on deregulation rules and regulations. Secondly, we strive to help protect the members (especially the smaller businesses in Maryland) to proactively transition to the deregulated market cushioning the increase in energy costs to provide long term budget stability. Thirdly, to spark competition for electricity supply services from the licensed suppliers to businesses, small to large throughout Maryland.

This page provides a list of chambers that CQI has been working with. The list provides links to the respective Chamber websites and also any news/press releases issued by that Chamber regarding Cooperative activities. This page will be periodically updated so please check back often for these updates and new press releases.

Read The Chamber of Commerce Coop Status Report

Chambers of Commerce

Maryland

Delaware

Illinois