The energy-efficient tax credit for commercial buildings in Austin, TX has the potential to make a significant impact on the building owner’s bottom line. A tax deduction of up to $1.88 per square foot is available to owners of commercial buildings that demonstrate a 50% reduction in energy usage. The 179D commercial building energy-efficiency tax deduction is available for both existing buildings and new construction. 

“For properties placed into service on or before December 31, 2020, the energy and power cost shall be compared with the minimum requirements of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007. Projects placed into service on or after January 1, 2021, shall use the most recent Standard 90.1 affirmed no later than the date that is 2 years before the date that construction of the qualifying property begins, or the date the construction permit of the qualifying property is issued.” - U.S. Department of Energy

Combining energy-saving efforts can help your commercial building meet the minimum requirements. Commercial window systems with better insulating properties mean your building needs a less robust heating and cooling system to maintain a comfortable room temperature. Eliminating all air leaks ensures high-efficiency systems work properly and save you money. Using the tax deduction to offset costs combined with other cost-saving actions will maximize your return on investment. 

All energy efficiency-related improvements help to lower operating costs. Lowering operating costs improve asset value which in turn makes your commercial building more valuable. These improvements also have hard to quantify benefits like making your building more comfortable due to less noise and less humidity. 

We are happy to assist with a professional assessment of your building’s energy use and will uncover all the ways you, the building’s owner or manager, can take advantage of the Consolidated Appropriations Act tax deduction. We have decades of experience in green commercial building services in Austin, TX. Contact us today to discuss how we can help.