Texas, USA
Lower project costs and simplify the entire incentive process.
Blink Energy Services provides independent capital improvement c...
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SUMMARY
Blink Energy Services provides LIHTC utility allowance services in coordination with Energy Bees. Together, and depending on project needs, we calculate utility allowances using either Energy Consumption Modeling or the HUD Utility Schedule Model.
Utility allowances directly impact maximum allowable LIHTC rents in two ways:
A higher utility allowance results in a lower maximum rent
A lower utility allowance allows for a higher maximum rent
A property that replaces outdated HVAC equipment and appliances may qualify for a custom utility allowance that reflects lower energy use, improving the property’s financial position while remaining fully compliant with LIHTC requirements.
WHAT LIHTC UTILITY ALLOWANCES ARE
Utility allowances estimate a resident’s expected monthly utility costs. Many properties rely on default schedules issued by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs), which are often conservative and do not account for building-specific efficiency.
A custom utility allowance uses actual building characteristics instead of generalized assumptions.
When properties include upgraded HVAC systems, high-efficiency appliances, or improved envelope performance, residents typically consume less energy than predicted by default schedules.
ENERGY CONSUMPTION MODELING
Energy Consumption Modeling estimates expected energy use based on detailed building data.
This approach is well-suited for properties with modern systems or those that have undergone recent upgrades.
Energy Bees produces the technical energy model. Blink Energy Services manages the process, explains the results, and prepares documentation for housing agency review.
These include:
Unit size and layout
Building orientation
Insulation and envelope performance
Mechanical system efficiency
Appliances and lighting
Local climate conditions
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HUD UTILITY SCHEDULE MODEL
The HUD Utility Schedule Model applies federal schedules adjusted for unit type, local utility rates, and climate data. It provides a compliant, custom allowance without requiring full energy modeling.
Energy Bees produces the technical energy model. Blink Energy Services manages the process, explains the results, and prepares documentation for housing agency review.
HUSM is often:
Faster to complete
More budget-friendly
Appropriate when limited building data is available
HOW BLINK SUPPORTS LIHTC PROJECTS
Blink Energy Services coordinates the entire utility allowance process.
Our deliverables are formatted to meet the expectations of state housing agencies and local housing authorities. As third-party inspection services providers, we focus on clarity, accuracy, and predictability.
This process includes:
Collecting and reviewing building data
Selecting the appropriate calculation method
Coordinating with Energy Bees
Financing PrograPreparing final utility allowance packagesms
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We also help owners understand how utility allowances affect:
Maximum rents
Annual operating budgets
Financing and underwriting
Long-term asset planning
A custom utility allowance may be beneficial when:
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WHAT YOU RECEIVE
The final utility allowance package includes:
A completed utility allowance model
Summary of assumptions and methodology
Supporting documentation for agency submission
Clear tables by unit type
Explanation of all inputs used
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If some information is unavailable, our team can support you by estimating or gathering what you need. Most projects start with a brief introductory call and an initial information review.
If some information is unavailable, our team can support you by estimating or gathering what you need. Most projects start with a brief introductory call and an initial information review.
To begin, we request:
Basic property information
Unit types and counts
Mechanical and appliance details
Recent improvements or upgrades
Utility providers and rate information
WHERE WE WORK
Blink Energy Services provides LIHTC utility allowance services throughout multiple areas.
We expand throughout:
Dallas–Fort Worth
Austin
San Antonio
Houston
Additional Texas markets
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