Greater Nebraska Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) District
About the PACE Program
The Greater Nebraska PACE District (GNPD) helps commercial, industrial, and multifamily property owners in Lincoln make energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements. Through Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing, private lenders provide up-front funding for projects such as solar panels, high-efficiency HVAC systems, EV charging stations, and water-saving upgrades. The financing is repaid over time through a special voluntary assessment tied to the property, not the individual owner.
This program supports long-term investments that improve building performance, reduce utility expenses, and promote a healthier, more sustainable built environment. Whether you're upgrading an existing facility or developing a new one, GNPD can help you incorporate high-impact improvements that benefit both your property and the broader community.
Why PACE?
Many building upgrades that improve energy efficiency pay for themselves over time, but the initial investment can be a hurdle. PACE solves that by enabling upfront capital, which is then repaid through a special assessment.
PACE is a strategic, low-cost way to boost long-term property value, preserving cash and balance sheet flexibility, all while aligning tenant-owner incentives.
Eligibility
The program is open to owners of commercial, industrial, and multi-family properties (more than four units). Properties must be located in the City of Lincoln's jurisdiction and meet qualifications including being current on property taxes and mortgage payments.
Residential (single-family) PACE is not offered in this program. As PACE funds the energy project up front, retroactive financing is not allowed.
Eligible PACE-Financed Expenses
PACE funds can be used for a wide range of improvements, including:
- Energy-efficient HVAC systems and controls
- Insulation (walls, roofs, floors, foundations)
- High-performance windows and doors
- Lighting upgrades and controls
- Energy management and automation systems
- Water-saving fixtures (e.g., toilets, faucets, irrigation)
- Solar, wind, geothermal, and other renewable energy systems
- Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and wiring upgrades
- Green roofs, rain gardens, and other stormwater solutions
- Permeable paving and pavement removal
- Urban tree canopy (private property only)
- Professional engineering reports and energy modeling
- Permit and inspection fees
- GNPD program administration and financing costs
If your project saves energy or reduces water use, there's a good chance it's eligible.
Your PACE Project Journey
Here's what to expect from your first inquiry to final project completion.
- Explore eligibility: Review the PACE Program Manual(PDF, 1MB) to confirm your property and project qualify and submit an Intake Form(PDF, 166KB).
- Receive invitation to apply: After initial approval from GNPD, work with contractors and engineers to define your project scope and expected savings.
- Secure financing: Locate a PACE lender who will provide financing for the project. Projects are funded up front.
- Make building improvements.
- Obtain certifications for project completion and loan amount.
- Repay the loan: Make payments on the special property assessment over time, with terms up to the average useful life of the energy project.
Ready to Get Started?
Please review all the program details in the PACE Program Manual(PDF, 1MB) and fill out the Intake Form(PDF, 166KB). Email the completed form to the PACE Administrator at GNPD@lincoln.ne.gov.
The PACE program team will review your Intake Form and confirm your eligibility to apply. After you receive approval to apply to the PACE program, the following downloadable forms and worksheets will need to be submitted with your complete application.
Additional Application Forms