Florida Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
August 7, 2015 7:51 a.m.

Mark Pierson, Outreach Manager with the PACE Funding Agency, presented an overview of his program and its opportunities for Florida’s residents during the August 4, 2015 Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC) meeting.

Formed under Florida Statutes, the program is designed to help property owners finance any qualifying improvement (except appliances) that becomes a permanent part of the building or home, to increase energy efficiency, wind resistance or renewable energy. The program is designed to help people who might not qualify for conventional loans, and covers all property types except public property and mobile homes.

PACE was formed through collaboration between Flagler County and the City of Kissimmee in June 2011. Nassau County subscribed to the program in August 2014. The government agency, authorized to issue up to $2 Billion in bonds to finance qualifying improvements that result in energy savings to consumers, insulates local governments from legal liability, financial risk and mitigates staff time and expense to develop and manage a PACE program. Its website (www.EvestFlorida.com) helps homeowners find contractors and get quotes to determine what type of financing might be available to them for a specific property improvement.

Pierson asked that questions be directed toward the website cited above or to him directly at (904) 430-7309 or [email protected] .

Editor’s Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne’s many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.