About SEF

Have questions about our programs, financing, or how to get started? Here’s what to know.

Who/what is Regenerative Energy Initiative (Formerly known as Sustainable Energy Fund)?

Regenerative Energy Initiative (formerly known as Sustainable Energy Fund) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in the Lehigh Valley. We work with energy users across Pennsylvania to overcome financial, educational, and regulatory barriers—enabling action toward a regenerative energy future, including serving as the C-PACE administrator for 30 counties across the Commonwealth.
Our work focuses on advancing energy systems that renew, revitalize, and regenerate environmental, economic, and social systems.
We provide and facilitate commercial financing and Stipulated Energy Savings Agreements, invest in solutions that strengthen communities and local economies, and convene leaders through initiatives like Energypath—one of the premier energy conferences in the Mid-Atlantic region.

How was Sustainable Energy Fund formed?

Sustainable Energy Fund was established in 1999 as part of Pennsylvania’s electric utility deregulation settlement, approved by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission.
Today, as Regenerative Energy Initiative, we build on that foundation—expanding our impact beyond efficiency toward energy systems that restore, renew, and strengthen environmental, economic, and social systems.

I’m interested in energy efficiency or renewable energy upgrades. Can you help me get started?

Yes. While Regenerative Energy Initiative does not perform energy upgrades directly, we finance projects for commercial, governmental, nonprofit, and agricultural organizations.
Our team also provides technical guidance—reviewing and helping verify proposals from Energy Service Providers—so clients can move forward with confidence and take action on their energy projects.

Financing

Commercial Loans

What projects are eligible for a commercial loan from Regenerative Energy Initiative?

A project must meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • Reduce energy consumption
  • Generate energy consumption
  • Replace higher-emission energy sources with cleaner or more efficient solutions (such as combined heat and power systems) (CHP)
Who does Regenerative Energy Initiative provide financing to?

We provide financing to businesses, nonprofits, municipalities, and agricultural entities across Pennsylvania.

What are loan terms?

Financing terms vary based on the project. Typically, projects are funded for up to 5 years, with options such as extended amortization periods (up to 20 years) to help reduce monthly payments. Clients may choose to pay a balloon payment or refinance at the end of the term.

What are the interest rates?

Regenerative Energy Initiative offers competitive rates for projects ranging from $5,000 to $1,000,000. Rates vary depending on project size and term, with smaller projects typically carrying slightly higher rates.

Stipulated Energy Savings Agreement

How do I save money through the Stipulated Energy Savings Agreement?

With a Stipulated Energy Savings Agreement, a portion of the energy savings generated by your project is used to repay the cost of the improvements. We structure the agreement so that your total monthly energy-related costs (utility bills plus repayment) are lower than what you were paying prior to the project—allowing you to achieve immediate savings.

Can I still participate in a SESA if I’m applying for a grant?

Yes. While SESA agreements require contractual payments over time, they can be used alongside other funding sources. If you are eligible for a grant but still need additional funding, a loan from Regenerative Energy Initiative may be a better option, as there is no prepayment penalty.