Brought to you by ComEd’s Energy Efficiency Program. Visit www.comed.com to learn more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated Chicago’s small business community, forcing many stores and community organizations to shut down.
But vacant spaces have also provided an opportunity for business owners to reassess their facilities, and in some cases to make changes that will not only help them financially survive the economic downturn, but also improve experiences for their customers and members far into the future.
Business owners and community groups have taken advantage of the Energy Efficiency Program from ComEd, specifically designed to help small businesses reduce energy costs.
Examples from two local Chicago organizations -- Sneaker Cleaners on the South Side and Calvary Memorial Church in Oak Park -- showcase the huge impact simple lighting upgrades can make on the bottom line, helping businesses meet their financial obligations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
After going dark, a sneaker service gets a lighting upgrade
It was hard enough for Brandon Smith to shut down his shoe repair and customization shop, Sneaker Cleaners, when the pandemic hit. But when he finally returned to reopen his business months later, he discovered an additional, unexpected challenge. The lights in his shop no longer worked.
Instead of reaching for a quick fix, though, Smith made the astute decision to upgrade his lighting system when he had the opportunity. He called in an expert from ComEd for a facility assessment. Smith noted that the technicians wore masks and maintained social distancing during the 20-minute examination, making it an easy experience that he now recommends to other small business owners.
Soon, not only did Smith have his lights back, but the ComEd team had also designed a custom solution with LED strip lighting, which gave the sneaker lover detailed control over the mood of the lighting in his space. The high-efficiency lights will also save him money in the long run, making the entire process a net benefit to his business. Even in tough times, smart business owners like Smith are finding ways to make the best of the situation, with a little help from ComEd and his electric service provider.
When worship services moved to video chat, a church needed new stage lighting
The pandemic has challenged all faith groups, who can no longer safely gather in large numbers. Leaders of the Calvary Memorial Church in Oak Park faced that challenge head-on, determined to continue providing guidance and prayer to their members, even if it meant holding services online.
There was just one hitch: Their lights weren’t bright enough. The church needed to upgrade its lighting setup so that congregants could easily see their pastor during online streaming services.
With the church empty, ComEd energy efficiency service providers were able to easily visit without coming into contact with too many people, allowing them to design an optimal solution for Calvary Memorial’s unique interior.
Custom recessed fixtures installed in the vaulted ceilings, as well as strategic lights located throughout the seating area, helped illuminate key areas of the main hall. Changing over to more efficient LED lighting, complete with occupancy sensors that automatically turn off lights when not in use, will also save the church money, with financial payback within a year’s time. That’s especially welcome news for an organization with an unpredictable revenue stream, a factor for many small businesses.
Cavalry Memorial was so thrilled with their lighting upgrade that they quickly investigated improvements to their HVAC system as well.
Learn more about ComEd’s small business solutions for Sneaker Cleaners and Cavalry Memorial Church.