SWEPCO brought contractors and industry partners together on Dec. 4 to explore strategies for reducing energy consumption and improving efficiency in commercial facilities across Louisiana at its kickoff workshop for the 2026 Louisiana Commercial Solutions Program.
The program, launching January 19, 2026, offers incentives for new construction and retrofit installations of energy-saving measures in non-residential facilities served by SWEPCO, helping businesses lower electric demand and energy costs while exceeding state and federal efficiency standards.
Team SWEPCO is powering progress! Our Energy Efficiency & Consumer Programs team (From L to R): Leslie Williams, EE & Consumer Programs Coordinator Sr.; Debra Miller, EE & Consumer Programs Manager; Steve Mutiso, EE & Consumer Programs Manager; Kansas Cooley, EE & Consumer Programs Coordinator Associate; Nickolas Mayfield, EE & Consumer Programs Coordinator; Whitney Watson, EE & Consumer Programs Budget Payment Coordinator; Robert Paddy, EE & Consumer Programs Compliance Coordinator
“This workshop is about empowering our partners with the tools and knowledge they need to deliver real energy savings,” said Kansas Cooley, SWEPCO Energy Efficiency and Consumer Programs Coordinator Associate. “By working together, we can help customers upgrade to efficient technologies that reduce costs and support sustainability.”
The kickoff workshop welcomed more than 20 contractors and representatives from companies across SWEPCO’s footprint reflecting the growing commitment to energy efficiency. The program benefits both retrofit projects and new construction by making high-efficiency equipment more affordable through incentives. For businesses, this means lower upfront costs and long-term energy savings, while communities benefit from reduced overall energy demand, improved sustainability, and economic growth as companies reinvest their savings locally.
“Our goal is to make participation simple and rewarding,” said Debra Miller, SWEPCO Energy Efficiency and Consumer Programs Manager. “These programs not only benefit businesses financially but also strengthen our communities by promoting responsible energy use.”
The Commercial Solutions Program includes incentives for HVAC systems, LED lighting, heat pump water heaters, smart thermostats, and advanced controls such as variable frequency drives and demand-controlled ventilation. Eligible participants include commercial customers, energy service companies, and contractors committed to improving energy efficiency.
“Many industrial facilities still rely on outdated equipment,” said attendee Jon Carnes of AIM Companies, a division of Tavoron. “Upgrading to technologies like variable speed drives can save customers thousands of dollars each month. With SWEPCO’s incentives and Tavoron’s automation capabilities designed to increase efficiency, improve quality, and enhance safety, these projects deliver even greater impact and long-term value.”
The workshop marked the beginning of an exciting year to come for energy efficiency in Louisiana. With the 2026 Commercial Solutions Program set to launch in January, SWEPCO and its partners are paving the way for smarter energy use, cost savings, and innovative solutions that benefit businesses and communities alike.
For more information about SWEPCO’s Energy Efficiency programs, visit SWEPCOsolutions.com, or to receive more information on the commercial rebates available contact Kansas Cooley at khcooley@aep.com.