Nearly 200 businesses in the Newton-Needham area have received more than $2.7 million in incentives to fund energy-saving upgrades in the first year of the Newton-Needham Regional Chamber’s Business Energy $avers Program.

“Massachusetts leads the nation in delivering cost-effective energy efficiency to our residents and businesses,” said Gov. Charlie Baker. “I applaud members of the Newton-Needham Chamber for their participation in the Mass Save program, their collaboration with various stakeholders, and their commitment to producing important savings for local ratepayers.”

After recognizing the burden high-energy costs were having on its member companies, the Chamber partnered with World Energy Efficiency Services, the City of Newton, and Chambers for Innovation and Clean Energy to launch the Business Energy $avers program. Together, the team has connected 40 percent of member companies to the Mass Save program to help cut down on operating costs.

Through the Newton-Needham Business Energy $aver program, eligible businesses receive free energy audits, financing for upgrades, and rebates on lighting, heating, cooling and other upgrades through the Mass Save program, which is run by the local utilities.

“Energy efficiency isn’t just good for our planet, it’s good for the bottom line,” said Chamber President Greg Reibman. “We’re committed to helping local businesses and non-profits find ways to reduce unnecessary energy use while saving money at the same time.”

For information on the Newton-Needham Energy Savers Program call 774-420-2764 or go to http://worldenergyes.com/Home/NewtonNeedham.