Skip to main content.

Small Business Energy Savings Program

Energy Efficiency Made Simple for Your Business

The Small Business Energy Savings (SBES) program helps eligible small businesses lower energy use by installing high-efficiency equipment. From your initial equipment assessment to contractor coordination and installing high-performance equipment, our program team handles the details so you can focus on running your business.

The program covers up to $50,000 per building per year of eligible project costs, making energy upgrades simple and affordable. From LED lighting and smart thermostats to HVAC maintenance, we help your business run as usual—while using less energy.

How the program works:

Step 1

Get a Free Assessment 

Submit an interest form for a no-cost, no-obligation assessment that identifies equipment eligible for upgrades. You’ll be notified by the program team at ICF whether you qualify.* If eligible, they’ll help schedule your assessment.

 

Step 2

Custom Recommendation 

An assessor will conduct the assessment and provide a report of qualifying energy-saving upgrades designed to help lower your energy usage.

 

Step 3

Select Your
Installer 

Ready to move forward? You can choose the installer you’d like to handle the recommended upgrades, or we can connect you with a program-eligibile installer in your area using the Find a Participating Contractor portal.†

 

Step 4

Instant
Rebates 

We’ll cover up to 70% of project costs, capped at $50,000 per building per year. All projects must comply with the Terms & Conditions.

 

* ICF is a separate company from Georgia Power but serves as a trusted contractor to help support the program.

 Contractors outside our network must apply to become an SBES Participating Contractor at georgiapower.com/workwithus before installation begins.
 

Which High-Efficiency Equipment Qualifies for Rebates? And How Much?

Please click the category for more information about qualifying equipment and rebate amounts.


CUSTOMER TESTIMONIAL

Hear from businesses like yours

Maximum Impact Love is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving those in need. We’re proud to support their mission by helping save energy and create brighter spaces for the communities they serve.


Frequently Asked Questions

Get the details by reading common questions and answers.

Did the name of the program change?

Yes. The program was previously called the Small Commercial Direct Install (SCDI) program and is now the Small Business Energy Savings (SBES) program. The new name is designed to be more recognizable, memorable, and clearly convey the benefits to small business customers.

How does ICF support the program?

As our trusted program-delivery contractor, ICF helps guide customers like you through the following:

 

  • Scheduling and conducting equipment assessments to identify savings opportunities.
  • Connecting you with Participating Contractors to complete your project efficiently.

Do I need to find my own contractor?

If you already work with a trusted contractor, have them contact ICF at 1‑855‑762‑6732 or email smallbiz@southernco.com. ICF will guide the contractor through the process to join the SBES Participating Contractor network so they can complete the installation at your facility. Contractors must meet program requirements to participate.

What improvements does the program offer?

The program currently provides:

  • LED lighting upgrades
  • Smart thermostat installation
  • HVAC maintenance (only available when paired with a smart thermostat installation)
     

If you already have a smart thermostat, HVAC maintenance is not offered as a standalone service.

How do I provide feedback about the program directly to Georgia Power?

We value your input! If you have feedback about the Small Business Energy Savings program, please email us at smallbiz@southernco.com. Your thoughts help us improve and better serve you. 

Who is eligible?

Small business customers with a 12-month peak demand of 249 kW or less qualify for the program.


Equipment considered for upgrades must:

  • Operate for a minimum of 1,000 hours annually.
  • Lighting upgrades must achieve at least a 10% reduction in wattage.

 

See full Terms & Conditions

How much of the project cost does the program cover?

The program covers up to 70% of eligible project costs with a maximum of $50,000 per building per year. 

Will I save money on my energy bill?

Installing energy‑efficient equipment can reduce energy use and costs, though savings vary based on individual operations.

If I get a free assessment, am I obligated to participate in the program?

The free, on-site equipment assessment is offered with no obligation. It’s designed to help you understand potential savings and upgrade options through the program.

A representative recently visited my business to discuss the program. Can you confirm if this is an official outreach and not a scam?

ICF assessors may approach you to discuss the program and will always carry an identification badge verifying their employment with ICF. If you would like to confirm their credentials, you may contact ICF directly at 1‑855‑762‑6732.

ICF logo

ICF is our trusted program-delivery contractor.

One less worry.

Each day brings new responsibilities for small business owners. Our Small Business Energy Savings program gives you one less thing to worry about. We can help you reduce energy use and see the benefits beyond energy savings with incentives for energy efficiency upgrades.

If you have any additional questions about the program, please call 1-855-762-6732 or email smallbiz@southernco.com.