Energy & Sustainability Services

Access Expert Energy Solutions at No Cost

Climate solutions do more than address climate change - they also save money, improve business operations, and keep more money in local communities. However, most small organizations don’t have the luxury of on-staff expertise to identify and implement cost-effective solutions.

That’s why C3 offers low- or no-cost technical expertise for local businesses and non-profits! Our team of certified “energy detectives” conduct energy assessments, recommend next steps, and assist with project facilitation for your organization.

We believe that local organizations can act collectively to make a big difference! Fill out the form linked here to talk to our on-staff experts or to join our 2026 Richmond Solar + HVAC Cohort.

I'm interested

You can also explore on your own with our Resource Library for businesses and nonprofits. Reach out to us at any time at corp@theclimatecollaborative.org for questions, advice, review of contractor estimates, or other assistance.

Explore on my own

  • Pro bono services: Non-profits, faith-based organizations, educational institutions, and some microbusinesses in Richmond, Charlottesville City, and Albemarle County.

    Free or low-cost services: Local businesses of all shapes and sizes.

  • Organizations receive:

    • Basic (ASHRAE Level I) energy assessment for nonprofits; shorter walkthrough for microbusinesses

    • Overview report of your building’s energy savings potential

    • For organizations with vehicles, analysis of your fleet’s fuel efficiency and carbon footprint

    • Written report outlining the findings of the preliminary energy assessment include:

      • Energy and carbon footprint

      • Recommended solutions, with emphasis on feasible and cost-effective actions

      • Estimated return on investment (ROI) for budget and operations planning

    • Follow-up coaching to help implement solutions, including connection to financial resources and referrals to service providers

    • Continued energy monitoring to assess the impact of energy upgrades and track GHG emissions reductions

    • Participating organizations can:

      • Quantify and baseline their energy costs (electricity, gas, and fuel)

      • Cut operating expenses

      • Improve building conditions and occupant health

      • Reduce greenhouse gas emissions

    • Increased energy efficiency has a positive financial impact for many years. Many strategies will pay for themselves very quickly!

    • Readily available technology - like insulation, smart controls and solar - can reduce utility costs in buildings by up to 50% putting net-zero in reach for many organizations.

    • Coles Jennings, C3’s Director of Business Partnerships, is a Professional Engineer, LEED Accredited Professional, AEE Certified Energy Auditor, and ASHRAE Building Energy Modeling Professional. He brings over 15 years of commercial building engineering experience with a passion for sustainability, energy conservation, and affordability.

    • Jacqui Bauer, Certified Energy Auditor, has worked for over 20 years in energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainability, with a particular focus on efficiency in residential and small- to mid-sized business settings.

Success Stories