When Grace Community Church in Eyota, Minnesota, began a 1,600-square-foot expansion in spring 2002, it became clear the building’s old boiler needed replacing.

Two members, both Alliant Energy employees, convinced the building committee to choose geothermal heating and cooling and take advantage of Alliant Energy’s Energy Efficiency rebate program.

Alliant Energy Small Business Account Manager Joanne Hanson gave church leaders a rebate check for $10,882.50, which represents the energy savings the church is expected to enjoy.

“Over time, Grace Community Church should reduce its heating costs by 36 percent and cooling costs by 43 percent,” said Hanson.

“We are very impressed with Alliant Energy’s rebate program,” said Dan Carlson, chairman of the church building committee. “You’d think when you double the size of a building, you’d double your expenses. Not so!”