ESPC Cohort
The Central Arkansas Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC) Cohort is a five-month technical assistance and training initiative designed to help local governments and other public institutions evaluate, procure, and implement energy efficiency projects under Arkansas’s Energy Performance Contracting framework. Participants receive direct support from Metroplan’s Energy Ambassador, access to model procurement and contract documents, peer-learning opportunities, and guidance from local, state, and national experts in building efficiency, financing, and performance contracting.
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Throughout the cohort, participants complete a series of structured milestones, including development of a building inventory, collection and review of utility data, preliminary energy benchmarking, establishment of an internal energy team, procurement planning, ESCO selection, and preparation for an Investment Grade Audit (IGA). By the conclusion of the program, participants will have a clear understanding of their facility improvement opportunities, available financing pathways, and the steps necessary to develop a viable Energy Performance Contract. Participation in the cohort does not obligate an entity to move forward with a project, but it provides the technical foundation needed to make an informed decision.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Cohort
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Application to Join Cohort Starting Fall 2026
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Cohort Onboarding Worksheet
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Cohort Timeline
Participation in the cohort does not obligate your organization to pursue an ESPC project, nor does participation guarantee funding. The cohort is intended to help communities determine project feasibility and prepare for future Energy Performance Contracting opportunities.
Eligible entities may later apply for stipend or rebate funding of up to 50% of eligible project costs, not to exceed $500,000 per entity, subject to funding availability and program requirements.
ESPC Campaign
Metroplan is proud to serve as a Campaign Leader in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC) Campaign, a national initiative that promotes best practices, peer learning, and technical resources for public-sector energy projects. Through this partnership, cohort participants gain access to nationally recognized tools, case studies, and guidance that complement Arkansas’s Energy Performance Contracting Program and help communities leverage public and private investment to modernize facilities, reduce operating costs, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Contact the Energy Ambassador, Brittany Nichols, to answer any questions about the cohort, rebate process, eligibility, or to request technical assistance.
