• What is the Sustainable Energy Utility?
• What is Energize Delaware?
• How is the SEU different from other utility programs?
• How are the programs under Energize Delaware funded?
• Is this the same program I am hearing about that the Federal Government is funding?
• What goals does the SEU plan to achieve?
• What are the plans for renewable energy?
• Can small changes in our homes and business really make a difference? 

Q: What is the Sustainable Energy Utility?

The Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) is a nonprofit organization created by the state of Delaware to foster a sustainable energy future for the state through conservation, efficiencies and the use of renewable energy sources, like solar, wind and geothermal. Its model is the first of its kind to be established in the U.S.

Q. What is Energize Delaware?

Energize Delaware is the program banner of the Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU). Through the Energize Delaware web site and programs, residents and businesses in Delaware will have a single point of contact for education, resources and programs that will include low and no-cost steps to save thousands on energy bills, boost the economy and improve the environment through new clean energy sources.

Q. How is the SEU different from other utility programs?

The SEU does not supply electricity, natural gas or other fuels. Unlike a utility program that is available only to their consumers, the SEU is the first comprehensive effort of its kind to enlist all Delawareans to take collective action. The program is designed to generate both money and energy savings, create new jobs, and help the environment. It is not attached to a single market and includes businesses, residential consumers and all fuel types.

Q.How are the programs under Energize Delaware funded?

The design of funding is self sustaining using proceeds from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, portions of the sales of Renewable Energy Credits, tax-exempt bonds and other funding sources that may develop as the program grows. No new state taxpayer money will be used.

Q. Is this the same program I am hearing about that the Federal Government is funding?

The SEU plan was put in place prior to the newly created American Recovery & Reinvestment Act. Some of these funds will be used to help the SEU get started and to accelerate its programs.

Q. What goals does the SEU plan to achieve?

The goals set forth in the planning are the reduction of energy waste by 30% by 2015 for each participant along with a 33% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2020. Another very important goal is the creation of hundreds of in-state “green” jobs for Delaware.

Q. What are the plans for renewable energy?

Energize Delaware programs will include education and assistance in residential and business renewable energy. The goal is to have 300 MW of renewable energy by 2019.

Q. Can small changes in our homes and business really make a difference?

Yes it really can! We’ve probably all heard how efficient compact florescent bulbs (CFL) are (the twisty bulbs). In one year using 5 CFL bulbs in areas of home where you use lights the most, you can save $70 each year. That equates to over $26 million dollars each year if every household in Delaware made that switch! Energy efficiency is truly the easiest way to save on household bills.