Mississippi Power’s Small Business Energy Efficiency Program beneficial to local company

Local property management/construction businessman Andries Butler is always looking for something extra to offer his clients.

As an active participant in Mississippi Power’s Small Business Energy Efficiency Program, Butler analyzes a facility’s energy use and identifies energy efficiency improvement areas.

His latest project is the installation of indoor LED lighting at Mary Mahoney’s Old French House restaurant in Biloxi.

“With these guys spending so much money per month on their other equipment, bringing in LED bulbs makes sense,” said Butler. “We’re installing LED bulbs all throughout the property. It’s a new world in lighting, so it’s a new world in lighting design due to the LED’S low consumption of power. For restaurant owners, it’s all about consistency in their food and their service. We try to sell the consistency of the ambience, thanks to LED lighting.”

That sounds pretty good to longtime restaurant owner Bobby Mahoney.

“Anytime you can find easy ways to save money, I’m all for it,” he said.

Butler, a military veteran, is not only focused on energy efficiency, but he’s also watched his business expand enough to bring on a partner, fellow military veteran Kenny Craig.

“Once you become a civilian, your military identity is somewhat gone,” Craig said. “It’s important to have a mission, and we do with this business.”

Along with Craig, several other veterans have worked with Butler on a part-time basis.

“I was a military brat,” Butler added. “I get along with soldiers, and we all have the same objectives in mind. We know how to rely on each other.”

The Small Business Energy Efficiency Program is in accordance with the Mississippi Public Service Commission’s adoption of energy efficiency programs and standards.