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Energy Specialists for LIHTC Utility Allowance Services
Blink Energy Services supports affordable housing projects with accurate and compliant utility allowance modeling for Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties. As trusted energy specialists, we help owners understand real utility costs, protect maximum rents, and plan with confidence.
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SUMMARY
Accurate Utility Allowance Modeling for Affordable Housing
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:
Example:
A property that replaces outdated HVAC equipment and appliances may qualify for a custom utility allowance that reflects lower energy use, improving the property’s financial position while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
Understanding LIHTC Utility Allowances
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 for LIHTC Properties
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:
HUD UTILITY SCHEDULE MODEL
HUD Utility Schedule Model (HUSM)
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:
HOW BLINK SUPPORTS LIHTC PROJECTS
Full-Service Coordination from Energy Specialists
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:
We also help owners understand how utility allowances affect:
Maximum rents
Annual operating budgets
Financing and underwriting
Long-term asset planning
WHEN A CUSTOM UTILITY ALLOWANCE MAKES SENSE
Is a Custom Utility Allowance Right for Your Property?
A custom utility allowance may be beneficial when:
01. HVAC or mechanical systems have been upgraded
02. Envelope improvements reduce heating or cooling loads
03. Appliances or lighting systems are more efficient
04. Default PHA schedules do not reflect actual energy use
05. More accurate financial projections are needed
06. A property is planning a refinance, recapitalization, or major renovation
WHAT YOU RECEIVE
LIHTC-Compliant Utility Allowance Deliverables
The final utility allowance package includes:
WHAT WE NEED TO BEGIN
Getting Started Is Simple
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
LIHTC Utility Allowance Services Across Texas
Blink Energy Services provides LIHTC utility allowance services throughout multiple areas.
We expand throughout:
Request a Utility Allowance Review
If you want to know whether a custom utility allowance could benefit your LIHTC property, contact Blink Energy Services. Our energy specialists will review your project and outline clear next steps.
