Paying for a Commercial Energy Project
Energy upgrades can be paid for with cash, a rebate, a loan, or a special financing program. Here is how the pieces fit together in Colorado.
Last checked: September 1, 2026
Programs we track
Colorado C-PACE
Colorado C-PACE
C-PACE is a long-term way to pay for some energy and water projects on business buildings. It is paid back through a special tax on the property. Whether you can use it depends on the county, the building, and the work you plan.
Read the C-PACE guideBasics
Three things to check before you borrow
Utility rebates first
A rebate lowers the amount you need to finance. Confirm the program rules before you buy equipment, because many programs need an application first.
Simple payback
Take the project cost and subtract any rebate you get. Then divide by your guessed yearly savings. That is the time to pay back the cost.
Cash flow, not just cost
If the monthly payment is smaller than the monthly savings, the project can be easier to approve inside a budget.