EPACT

The Environmental Protection Act of 2005 (EPACT), which has been updated annually, offers tax incentives to businesses that are especially efficient. With tax offsets that can reach up to 60 cents per square foot, this incentive can reduce your taxable profits dramatically.

ECS has completed EPACT certifications for millions of square feet and has produced millions of dollars in tax incentives for its’ customers. ASHRAE / LEED: ASHRAE codes require that lighting be used efficiently. When undertaking a major renovation or new construction project, many states require that your lighting is built to ASHRAE codes. ECS can help specify proper lighting to meet these codes and your COO will be on its way. One of the first steps in a LEED certification process is a lighting upgrade. If you are considering LEED certification ECS can complete a comprehensive analysis and turn-key upgrade to get you well on your way.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, lighting represents 40% of the average commercial building’s electric bill, followed by motors/HVAC (40%) and other equipment (20%).

For years, energy-efficient lighting solutions have been available that can reduce lighting energy costs while maintaining or potentially improving lighting quality. According to the Energy Cost Savings Council, energy-efficient lighting projects generate an average 45% return on investment, paying for themselves in just 2.2 years. Due to energy codes and its economic advantages, energy-efficient lighting is now a common feature in new construction; lighting is generally considered the easiest, most profitable investment in energy-saving building systems.

According to the Department of Energy, however, only 20% of existing commercial buildings feature some degree of upgraded lighting technology, while 80% continue to operate lighting systems installed before 1986. The reason typically given is initial cost of changing out an older lighting system and replacing it with a newer one. Energy-efficient lighting typically costs more to purchase and necessitates skilled labor for its installation.

The Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction was created to enhance the financial attractiveness of investment in the most energy-efficient lighting and other building technologies.