Montgomery County Launches C-PACE Program to Boost Energy-Efficient Commercial Development

by Bren Brewer

Montgomery County, TX is taking a significant step toward sustainability and smart growth with the launch of its Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program. This innovative financing model allows commercial property owners to fund energy-efficient and water-saving building upgrades—without using public funds or adding financial risk to the county.

💡 What Is the C-PACE Program?

The C-PACE Program (Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy) enables property owners to finance improvements such as:

High-efficiency HVAC systems, LED lighting, and insulation
Renewable energy systems like solar panels
Water conservation features such as low-flow fixtures and smart irrigation systems

Financing is repaid through a voluntary property tax assessment, making it a secure, long-term investment that stays with the property—not the owner.

🗣️ “There is no risk, no liability to the county,” said Lee McCormick of Lone Star PACE. “This is private dollars going to private projects. It’s a great economic tool.”

🏢 C-PACE Projects Already in the Works in Montgomery County

The new C-PACE program is already being applied to key development projects across Montgomery County, including:

A medical office facility in Conroe
A retail shopping center near Lake Conroe
A multifamily residential property in Magnolia, TX

These projects signal a growing trend in energy-efficient commercial real estate and demonstrate how C-PACE funding can drive responsible development across the region.

🌿 A Model for Sustainable Commercial Development in Texas

With this launch, Montgomery County joins over 100 other local governments nationwide, including Harris County, Fort Bend County, and Denton County, in adopting C-PACE as a tool for sustainable growth. The program supports commercial real estate investors, developers, and property managers in making long-term, cost-effective improvements—without drawing from public budgets.

🧭 Why It Matters for Commercial Real Estate in Montgomery County

This initiative has major implications for the Montgomery County commercial real estate market, especially in areas like:

Conroe, a fast-growing hub for medical and retail development
Magnolia, known for multifamily and mixed-use expansion
Lake Conroe, a destination area with ongoing commercial activity

The C-PACE program is expected to make these locations even more attractive to investors, developers, and business owners focused on energy savings and long-term value.