Pathway Energy Efficiency Loan Program

TN Loan Program commercial industrial local government nonprofit schools

Administered by: Pathway Lending Community Development Financial Institution

Quick Summary

Pathway Lending offers below-market loans—as low as 4% for 5 years or 6% for 10 years—to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects up to $5 million, with 100% financing available to cover equipment, installation, design, and assessments. You can apply if you're a Tennessee business, nonprofit, or governmental entity with a project that reduces utility consumption across electric, gas, or water; local governments must provide a third-party energy audit or vendor proposal showing estimated savings. The loan structure is designed so that energy cost savings repay the debt, improving your operating costs and cash flow.

AI-generated summary • Updated 7/12/2026

Program Details

Program ID
4328
Effective Date
8/1/2010
Last Updated
1/2/2026

Eligibility

Eligible Sectors
commercial industrial local government nonprofit schools
Eligible Technologies
solar photovoltaics combined heat & power lighting heat pumps air conditioners processing and manufacturing equipment comprehensive measures/whole building custom/others pending approval

Incentive Amount

Varies

Program Summary

Pathway Lending's Energy Efficiency Loan Program provides Tennessee business and non-profit entities with below-market loans for energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements. All costs related to the efficiency measures may be financed, including assessments, design, equipment, and installation. Any project that reduces utility consumption, across electric, gas, or water, may apply for financing through this program. The loans are designed to allow for energy cost savings derived from each project to provide the repayment of the loan.

Starting in 2016, EELP began offering up to six years of financing for qualified energy efficiency and renewable energy projects to Tennessee local governmental entities, including municipalities, counties, school districts, and other similar public agencies. To be eligible for a loan, a governmental entity must have a complete third-party energy audit, assessment, or vendor proposal that details estimated energy savings.

Contact & Resources

Contact Email
[email protected]

Please verify current program details with the administering agency before making any financial decisions.

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