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Bond program may drive big-ticket upgrades to large Dayton-area buildings

The Dayton region may be on the cusp of some major investments in large industrial facilities and office buildings.

That’s because economic development officials and contractors are ramping up efforts to spur more energy efficiency projects.

Using a little-known program called PACE — Property Assessed Clean Energy — building owners can pay the cost of the projects under an assessment. The idea is that the monthly energy savings can cover the semi-annual tax bill without the risk — or hassle — of securing a conventional loan.

Locally, The Dayton-Montgomery County Port Authority would issue bonds to pay for the projects, which would revolve around things like HVAC systems, windows and lighting. The math says PACE projects — which can typically be paid off within five to 10 years — make the most sense for owners of industrial buildings and office towers. Read more.