Using C-PACE to Protect the Texas Power Grid 

Triple-digit temperatures have once again arrived in Texas, putting immense strain on the state’s power grid as homes and businesses crank the A/C.  

The summer heat comes as thousands of new residents move into the state. Historic population growth, combined with the rise of artificial intelligence, cloud computing and bitcoin mining, are pushing demand for power in Texas to new heights.  

ERCOT officials now predict the capacity of the Texas power grid will need to double by 2030 to accommodate continued growth. Demand from data centers is expected to account for more than half of that demand. 

As one of the largest consumers of power, the commercial real estate market plays a major role in ensuring the grid can handle what’s to come. Energy use is the single largest operating expense in commercial office buildings, representing approximately one-third of typical operating budgets and almost 20% of the nation’s annual greenhouse gas emissions, according to Energy Star. 

Buildings that consume less energy and water by incorporating sustainability not only see reduced utility costs but also increased property value. It feels like a win-win, but property owners are often deterred by the considerable up-front cost associated with energy-efficient upgrades. 

Fortunately, Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy allows landlords to finance improvements that save energy and water through a low-interest, long-term assessment. Well-designed C-PACE projects often realize energy savings that exceed the C-PACE payments, creating a cash-flow-positive project. 

Texas’ business success rivals that of economies around the world, but it comes at a cost. If you’re interested in learning more about how your property can reduce strain on the grid and protect the state’s long-term competitive edge, give Lone Star PACE a call at 214-256-3209 or email us at info@lonestarpace.com.