More than eight years ago, Pacific Air Compressors became an Energy Trust trade ally contractor to help small industrial and commercial business customers use less energy and save money. Operating in Portland for the last 25 years, Pacific Air Compressors specializes in installation and maintenance of compressed air systems, filtration systems and refrigeration in commercial and industrial facilities. The company’s 16 staff members complete as many as 30 Energy Trust projects per year through the Existing Buildings and Production Efficiency programs.

In 2013, Pacific Air Compressors helped Galvanizers Inc. upgrade its compressed air system. Within six months, Galvanizers Inc. was already spending less on energy costs, and the company now saves an average of $4,000 per year—paying for the project through energy savings in just four years.

Energy Trust incentives and technical assistance help Pacific Air Compressors attract customers and promote projects. “[Energy Trust] incentives are great and extremely helpful,” said Paula Dahlstrom, partner, Pacific Air Compressors. “Our company and our customers love it.”