STATE CAPITOL, PHOENIX – Arizona State Representative Chris Lopez today announced his leadership on legislation to establish a Commercial Property Assessed Capital Expenditure (C-PACE) program in Arizona, a market-driven financing tool designed to expand private investment, modernize infrastructure, and strengthen economic growth in Pinal County and across the state.

The legislation would authorize local governments to offer C-PACE financing for commercial and industrial properties, allowing property owners to access low-cost, long-term private capital for energy efficiency, water conservation, resiliency, and infrastructure improvements.

Eligible projects would include energy systems, water and wastewater infrastructure, building retrofits, manufacturing facilities, agricultural processing, and logistics development—investments critical to Pinal County’s rapidly growing economy.

“Pinal County is one of the fastest-growing regions in Arizona, and we need smart, market-driven tools to help our communities keep pace,” said Representative Lopez. “C-PACE unlocks private capital for major commercial and industrial projects without raising taxes or creating new government debt. It’s a win for local governments, job creators, and property owners.”

Unlike traditional public financing programs, C-PACE relies entirely on private investment. Participation is voluntary, and property owners repay the financing through a special assessment tied to the property, providing long-term certainty for lenders and developers while protecting taxpayers.

The legislation is expected to benefit a wide range of Pinal County industries, including advanced manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, energy, and water infrastructure—sectors driving the county’s emergence as a statewide economic engine.

“As Pinal County continues to attract major employers and advanced manufacturing facilities, we must ensure our communities have the infrastructure to support that growth,” Representative Lopez said. “This legislation gives cities and counties another tool to compete, attract investment, and build for the future.”

If enacted, Arizona would join more than 40 states that have authorized C-PACE programs, helping unlock billions of dollars in private investment nationwide.

Chris Lopez is a Republican member of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 16, which includes portions of Pinal and Pima Counties.