Cedar Falls Utilities - Energy Conservation Loan Program

January 08, 2010

Summary

The process for acquiring a zero interest loan with CFU begins with inviting a CFU energy specialist to visit the customer's home to identify potential energy savings and collect data to determine the optimum size for any new heating or cooling equipment that may be needed. Customers should get estimates from the vendor of their choice, collect documentation, and deliver it to CFU Qualifying credit is required for all loans. For loan amounts of $3,000 or more, CFU will refer the application to a local bank for underwriting. After approval notification, the vendor or contractor may complete the project. Customers will then present the final bill to CFU, which will prepare a promissory note and disburse the funds. Loan funds will be disbursed directly to the vendor or to reimburse project costs paid by the borrower and documented with vendor receipts. Equipment purchased with the loan must meet the following requirements:

  • Gas furnaces - 90% efficient or more with a variable speed DC blower motor.
  • Central Air Conditioner - minimum 14 SEER.
  • Air Source Heat Pump - minimum 15 SEER and 8.0 HSPF, two-stage units.
  • Variable Speed Air Handler - equipped with an ECM motor.
  • Boiler - natural gas-fired - AFUE of 92% or more.
  • Ground source heat pump - minimum 14 SEER rating and COP 3.0 or greater.
  • Insulation - Professionally installed and appropriate for the home’s construction.
  • Program Overview

    Implementing Sector: Utility
    Category: Financial Incentive
    State: Iowa
    Incentive Type: Loan Program
    Web Site: http://www.cfu.net/energy_conservation_loans.php
    Administrator: Cedar Falls Utilities
    Start Date:
    Eligible Renewable/Other Technologies:
    • Geothermal Heat Pumps
    • Furnaces
    • Heat pumps
    • Air conditioners
    • Building Insulation
    • Motor VFDs
    Maximum Loan: $10,000
    Loan Term: Rate: 0%
    Repayment: One year per $1,000 borrowed ($84 loan payment added to monthly utility bill)

    Contact

    Name: Energy Services
    Organization: Cedar Falls Utilities
    Address: P.O. Box 769
    Cedar Falls IA 50613
    Phone: (319) 266-1761
    Email: energyservices@cfunet.net

    This information is sourced from DSIRE; the most comprehensive source of information on incentives and policies that support renewables and energy efficiency in the United States. Established in 1995, DSIRE is operated by the N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center at N.C. State University.