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PACE: Partners for a Clean Environment

PACE: Partners for a Clean Environment

August 2026

Welcome to the PACE newsletter! Each month, we share resources to help Boulder County businesses save money, promote environmental health, and improve climate impact and sustainability.


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Your PACE website just got easier to use

A screenshot from the PACE homepage which shows an image of downtown Longmont and text from the website.

Earlier this year, we introduced you to an updated PACE website. We hope you like the new look and feel as much as we do!


We recently made some additional changes to the PACE website to make it easier to find what you need. Here's what changed:


  • Improved menu navigation and page organization
  • A dedicated Programs section 
  • A simplified Rebates and Grants section — and coming soon, a new page for Utility and Municipality Incentives!


If you had a PACE webpage bookmarked and the link no longer works, or you’re having trouble finding program or incentive information, just reach out to us at info@pacepartners.com. We'll point you in the right direction!

PACE Landscaping Grant – second round opens today!

Our popular Electric Landscaping Equipment Grant is returning for a second round this year! Registration for the random lottery opens today, Wednesday, Aug. 5


Here are the details:



For 2026, grants cover 50% of the cost of electric landscaping equipment (before tax), up to $5,000. Eligible applicants include professional landscaping businesses in Boulder County that meet the program criteria on our website.


Applicants selected by the lottery can use their grant to purchase eligible equipment like blowers, trimmers, chainsaws, and mowers from AGZA Field Tested and Certified manufacturers. PACE advisors and our retail partners will help guide you through the process to ensure your selections qualify.

Energy bills looking a little... wonky? PACE can help

A woman is looking at a bill and looks frustrated. She

Many businesses closely track their expenses, but utility bills often get less attention — until something seems off. Recently, PACE learned that some local businesses are seeing unexpected changes in their Xcel Energy bills. These changes include higher-than-expected bills, bills that cover only part of a billing cycle, and even negative bills.


Utility costs normally change throughout the year. But if you notice a dramatic or unexpected change, take a closer look. Make it a habit to review all your utility bills regularly and compare them to previous months and years. Catching problems early can help you avoid budget surprises. The sooner you spot a big change, the sooner you can fix an error or adjust your operations.


Not sure where to start? PACE can help! Our advisors can tell you if you're on the best rate for your business. We can also help you understand your bill and point you toward the right contact if your utility needs to fix a billing issue.


The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is also collecting feedback from customers about billing and service issues. Visit the PUC's Customer Response Surveys and Feedback webpage to learn more.


Don't assume billing issues will fix themselves. Take a few minutes each month to review your statements and catch problems early. Remember, PACE is a trusted energy resource for Boulder County businesses — we're here to help!

Power Ahead Colorado launches heat pump rebate

An illustration of commercial buildings with mountains in the background and hills and trees in front.

A new heat pump rebate is now available for businesses across the region. As the summer heat persists, the Power Ahead Colorado rebate makes it easier and more affordable to install a heat pump. Heat pumps can cool your business now and heat it in the winter.


Eligible customers can receive $1,500 off the equipment price of an ENERGY STAR-rated, cold-climate heat pump installed by a verified Power Ahead Colorado contractor. The rebate can be combined with other available rebates (including rebates from PACE and utility providers) and incentives. Visit the Power Ahead Colorado website for more information. 

Grey to Green Fund accepting applications for 2027 projects

Graphic shows the benefits of the grey to green project, converting flood and erosion prone areas to more pervious bio swales and rain gardens

Boulder County's Grey to Green Fund is now accepting applications for 2027 projects. Municipalities, businesses, homeowner associations, non-profit organizations, and schools can apply.


The fund supports projects that replace "grey" features, like parking lots and pavement, with "green" features, like rain gardens and micro-forests. Awards range from $20,000 to $50,000. These projects can reduce flood risk, improve water quality, and recharge groundwater.


Submit your application by Monday, Aug. 31. Visit the Grey to Green Fund program webpage for more details.

City of Boulder Resiliency Hub Program applications close August 14

A building is showing with a large solar array on the roof.

The City of Boulder has a new pilot program to help nonprofits install battery backup systems for resilience during power outages. Qualifying nonprofits can receive up to $50,000 toward a battery or battery-plus-solar system, plus support from a PACE advisor.



Organizations that provide — or want to provide — critical services during power disruptions (like shelter, food storage, medical equipment use or charging stations) are encouraged to apply. Submit an interest application by Aug. 14, 2026, or contact PACE (info@pacepartners.com) to learn more.

Now is the time to upgrade lighting!

A woman stands in an apron smiling with her arms crossed. The text reads Efficiency Works

Commercial LED lighting fixture rebates are scheduled to end after Dec. 31, 2026, and will no longer be available for projects submitted in 2027.

 

High-efficiency lighting offers:

  • lower energy costs
  • improved lighting quality
  • reduced maintenance


Securing rebates before they sunset can help maximize your return on investment.

Visit the Efficiency Works website to learn more about commercial lighting rebates and eligibility.


Not sure where to start? Efficiency Works Business can help with free advising and assessments.



Rebates are available to commercial electric customers of Estes Park Power and Communications, Fort Collins Utilities, Longmont Power & Communications, or City of Loveland Utilities. To learn more, contact the Efficiency Works Business team at business@efficiencyworks.org.

PACEpartners.com303-786-7223info@PACEpartners.com


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