Montana communities can participate in Last Best PACE, a statewide program that helps commercial property owners save energy and money, create jobs, and boost local economies—without taxpayer funding. Through Commercial Property Assessed Capital Enhancements (C-PACE), authorized by Section 90-4-1306, MCA, Montana counties and municipalities can offer access to low-cost, long-term financing for energy efficiency, water conservation, and renewable energy projects.
Projects create jobs, stimulate investment, and reduce building operating costs, thereby boosting local economies
Low-interest financing cuts capital costs, lowering overall business expenses
Building improvements, such as efficient windows, HVAC, and lighting, enhance property values and expand the local tax base
Local benefits
Last Best PACE offers a uniform, statewide program for implementing and providing oversight for C-PACE projects, covering program guidelines, project qualification, and oversight. It is east to adopt in communities due to:
No cost to local governments: Local governments incur no financial burden, as the Montana Facility Finance Authority (MFFA) administers the program and recovers costs through project fees.
Statewide approach: Uniform standards, documents, and best practices apply across the state, simplifying participation for all stakeholders; lenders, contractors, and building owners.
Centralized administration: MFFA serves as a single access point, enforcing program guidelines and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and repayment terms.
Open market: Any qualified lender or contractor can participate, offering competitive financing and fostering local business support.
Voluntary participation: Property owners voluntarily apply to the program, only paying the tax assessment if they choose to improve their property.
Lender consent: Mortgage lenders must consent to financings, ensuring project buy-in and economic viability.
how to participate
Last Best PACE is available to commercial property owners in all Montana communities, contingent on the local government’s decision to participate. To opt in, a local government must:
Adopt a Resolution of Intent;
Hold a public hearing for feedback on the program; and
Adopt a Resolution Establishing a Program its terms
Local governments do not approve individual projects. MFFA coordinates the Last Best PACE program and supports participating communities. Interested local governments should contact the program directly for more information.
