Energy efficiency companies in North Carolina play a vital role in reducing energy waste and lowering costs for businesses and consumers alike. This industry includes service providers specializing in HVAC, building automation, energy modeling, and solar installations, among other services. With a focus on sustainability and innovative technologies, these companies are evolving rapidly in response to increasing environmental concerns. Notably, the market is shifting toward integrated solutions that combine energy efficiency with renewable energy sources. This trend indicates a growing emphasis on long-term sustainability and economic resilience in the face of climate change.


This list features 20 noteworthy energy efficiency companies based in North Carolina, showcasing a range of sizes from small teams to firms with over 500 employees. Founded between 1947 and 2020, these companies primarily operate out of cities like Charlotte, Durham, and Raleigh. They specialize in various sectors, including HVAC solutions, solar technology, and energy consulting, all aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability. Their collective expertise and innovative approaches highlight the industry's focus on reducing energy costs and enhancing building performance.


Read on to discover the top energy efficiency companies in North Carolina.


Top 20 Energy Efficiency Companies in North Carolina


1. PowerSecure, Inc.

  • Website: powersecure.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: $431.0M, February 2016
  • Founded year: 1991
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: powersecure

PowerSecure, Inc., based in Durham, North Carolina, is an energy solutions provider that has been operational since 1991. The company specializes in innovative energy management and efficiency services, catering to a wide array of sectors such as healthcare, government, and manufacturing. PowerSecure's offerings include advanced microgrids, energy storage systems, and comprehensive energy efficiency services. They have successfully implemented over $900 million in energy efficiency upgrades, showcasing their expertise in delivering tailored solutions that enhance operational efficiency and reduce energy costs. As a subsidiary of Southern Company, PowerSecure leverages its extensive resources and industry knowledge to provide reliable and resilient energy solutions. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their focus on renewable energy integration and their efforts to help clients achieve their energy efficiency objectives.


2. Crete United

  • Website: creteunited.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
  • Founded year: 2020
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: crete-mechanical-group

Crete United, founded in 2020 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a service provider that specializes in energy efficiency, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and building automation services. With a workforce of approximately 135 employees, the company serves various sectors, including hospitality, healthcare, and education. Crete United focuses on improving operational efficiency and sustainability through a comprehensive range of services. These include energy and sustainability advisory services, design-build installations, maintenance, and smart building solutions. Their approach integrates advanced technologies and practices aimed at reducing energy consumption and enhancing the performance of built environments. Crete United is committed to making communities healthier and more sustainable, reflecting their ambition to drive impactful change in the energy efficiency sector.


3. MCI - Mechanical Contractors, LLC

  • Website: mcihvac.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Greece 3%, Saudi Arabia 3%, Other 8%
  • Latest funding: November 2024
  • Founded year: 1948
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: mechanical-contractors

MCI - Mechanical Contractors, LLC, established in 1948, is a service-oriented company based in Charlotte, North Carolina. With a workforce of approximately 216 employees, MCI specializes in HVAC services, construction, engineering, and energy efficiency solutions. The company caters primarily to commercial builders and property owners, ensuring efficient building operations and occupant comfort. MCI's expertise spans various sectors, emphasizing quality and customer satisfaction. Their Energy Services team is dedicated to creating environmentally responsible strategies that reduce energy consumption and operational costs. MCI also engages in energy audits, modeling, and certifications, including Energy Star and LEED, showcasing their commitment to sustainable practices. Their in-house engineering staff and innovative approach to building automation further enhance their capabilities in delivering energy-efficient solutions.


4. Commercial Green Solutions


Commercial Green Solutions (CGS), founded in 2014 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a consulting firm dedicated to enhancing energy efficiency in commercial buildings. With a team of 23 employees, CGS focuses on providing tailored solutions that help businesses reduce their utility costs and improve their sustainability practices. Their services include forensic utility audits, HVAC tune-ups, and efficient lighting installations, primarily targeting clients in the hospitality sector. CGS has successfully assisted over 10,000 facilities across 50 states, achieving significant savings for their clients. Their unique business model ensures that they only profit when their clients do, as they receive a percentage of the utility funds they secure on behalf of their clients. This aligns their interests with those of their clients, fostering a collaborative approach to energy efficiency.


5. Piedmont Service Group


Piedmont Service Group, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, has been providing HVAC and plumbing solutions since 1971. With a workforce of around 214 employees, the company serves a variety of sectors including commercial, industrial, healthcare, and education. Their service offerings include operational assessments, planned maintenance, emergency repairs, and notably, energy optimization. This focus on energy efficiency is evident in their commitment to helping clients reduce operational costs and improve building performance. They also provide building controls and analytics, which are essential for monitoring and enhancing energy use. Piedmont Service Group is recognized for its efforts in promoting energy sustainability and has established partnerships to facilitate energy management programs. Their status as an ENERGY STAR partner further underscores their dedication to energy efficiency practices.


6. Southern Energy Management

  • Website: southern-energy.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: $4.0M, June 2012
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: southern-energy-management

Southern Energy Management, founded in 2001 and based in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a company dedicated to enhancing energy efficiency through solar energy solutions and building performance services. With a workforce of approximately 137 employees, the firm provides a range of services including home and commercial solar installations, energy efficiency consulting, and HVAC design. Their clientele spans homeowners, businesses, and builders, all seeking to optimize energy use and minimize costs. The company has also achieved B Corp certification, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Southern Energy Management has been active in the industry for over two decades, demonstrating a consistent focus on improving energy practices and supporting clients in achieving their energy goals.


7. Building Efficiency Resources, LLC


Building Efficiency Resources, LLC (BER), founded in 2010 and based in Brevard, North Carolina, is a consulting firm dedicated to energy efficiency and green building services. With a small team of 1-10 employees, BER offers a range of services including HERS ratings, energy modeling, HVAC design, and training programs tailored for professionals in the construction and energy sectors. Their clientele primarily consists of builders and energy raters who seek to meet environmental standards and enhance building performance. BER is recognized as a RESNET accredited HERS Rating Provider and a USGBC accredited LEED for Homes Provider, showcasing their commitment to quality and compliance in energy efficiency. They also provide technical support and quality assurance services, which are vital for the success of their clients in navigating complex energy efficiency programs.


8. Sud Associates, P.A.

  • Website: sudassociates.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1979
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: sud-associates-p.a.

Sud Associates, P.A., founded in 1979 and based in Durham, North Carolina, is a consulting engineering firm that specializes in engineering study, design, and research services. The firm employs a team of professionals, including LEED Accredited Professionals and certified energy managers, who are dedicated to sustainable design and energy efficiency. Sud Associates has worked extensively with local governments, educational institutions, and various sectors, focusing on innovative solutions that enhance energy performance. Their portfolio includes numerous projects that have achieved LEED certification, ranging from Certified to Platinum levels. The firm is known for its hands-on approach and commitment to delivering high-quality engineering services, which has resulted in a high percentage of repeat business from satisfied clients. Their expertise in energy modeling and sustainable technologies positions them as a relevant player in the energy efficiency sector.


9. Phase Change Solutions, Inc.

  • Website: phasechange.com
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Greensboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, United Kingdom (UK) 6%
  • Latest funding: Other (Grant), July 2020
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: phase-change-energy-solutions-inc

Phase Change Solutions, Inc. is a smart materials company based in Greensboro, North Carolina, founded in 2011. The company is dedicated to developing innovative temperature control and energy efficiency solutions using phase change materials (PCMs). Their flagship product, BioPCM®, is designed to stabilize temperatures across a wide range of applications, significantly benefiting industries such as logistics, pharmaceuticals, and data centers. With a mission to decarbonize their footprint and promote human health, Phase Change Solutions has completed over 20,000 projects, demonstrating their commitment to energy efficiency. They have also formed strategic partnerships to enhance their offerings and expand their market reach, including collaborations aimed at decarbonizing the building and construction sector. The company has received recognition for its contributions to clean technology, including being named a 2020 BNEF Pioneer by BloombergNEF.


10. Palmetto

  • Website: palmetto.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
  • Latest funding: Other (Debt), $1.2B, January 2025
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: palmetto%e2%84%a2

Palmetto, founded in 2009 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a solar energy provider dedicated to helping homeowners transition to renewable energy. The company specializes in customized solar solutions, offering products like solar panels and energy plans designed to reduce electricity costs. Palmetto provides comprehensive support throughout the installation and maintenance process, ensuring that customers have a seamless experience. Their innovative LightReach Energy Plan allows homeowners to adopt solar energy without upfront investment, covering equipment, maintenance, and installation costs. With a workforce of over 500 employees, Palmetto has established itself as a significant player in the solar industry, receiving substantial funding to support its growth and expansion. The company also emphasizes home electrification, providing resources and products that promote energy efficiency and sustainability.


11. Hoffman & Hoffman, Inc.

  • Website: hoffman-hoffman.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Greensboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1947
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: hoffman-%26-hoffman-inc.

Hoffman & Hoffman, Inc., founded in 1947 and based in Greensboro, North Carolina, is a private company that specializes in HVAC solutions and building automation services. With a workforce of approximately 398 employees, the company serves a variety of sectors, including healthcare, education, and industrial manufacturing. Their offerings include HVAC equipment, custom solutions, and comprehensive training programs aimed at improving occupant comfort and energy efficiency. Hoffman & Hoffman is dedicated to providing high-quality, effective solutions that maximize productivity and safety in the workplace. They also emphasize the importance of energy conservation through their various projects and services, which are designed to meet the unique needs of their clients. The company operates multiple divisions, including Hoffman Mechanical Solutions and Hoffman Building Technologies, which further enhance their capabilities in delivering energy-efficient solutions.


12. CCAC Building Solutions


CCAC Building Solutions, based in Greensboro, North Carolina, has been a prominent player in the HVAC industry since its inception in 1967. The company provides a comprehensive range of services tailored for commercial, industrial, and institutional markets. Their offerings include maintenance, building automation, energy solutions, and engineering design, all aimed at optimizing facility operations and minimizing costs. CCAC's expertise in building automation systems allows clients to manage energy consumption effectively, ensuring that facilities operate at peak efficiency. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, CCAC has established a solid reputation for quality service and customer satisfaction. Their commitment to energy solutions is evident in their focus on sustainable practices and innovative technologies that enhance energy efficiency across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and retail.


13. United Mechanical Corporation

  • Website: unitedhvac.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: united-mechanical-corporation

United Mechanical Corporation, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, has been a significant player in the HVAC industry since its founding in 1977. The company provides a comprehensive range of services, including maintenance, repair, energy upgrades, and building automation, primarily targeting commercial and industrial clients. With a team of skilled engineers, United Mechanical is dedicated to ensuring optimal HVAC system performance. Their engineering-driven approach allows them to diagnose and resolve complex issues, ultimately enhancing energy efficiency. The firm has successfully completed numerous projects, demonstrating their capability in delivering tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of their clients. Their focus on energy upgrades, particularly in older buildings, positions them as a proactive partner in the pursuit of energy efficiency.


14. Performance Heating Cooling


Performance Heating & Cooling, based in Wilson, North Carolina, has been a prominent player in the HVAC industry since its establishment in 1993. With a dedicated team of 15 employees, the company provides a range of services including installation, repair, and maintenance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for both residential and light commercial clients. They emphasize energy efficiency and indoor air quality, offering advanced solutions such as geothermal systems and energy-saving agreements. As a Trane Comfort Specialist, Performance Heating & Cooling is committed to high standards of service and customer satisfaction, ensuring that their installations achieve optimal efficiency. The company is also actively involved in community initiatives, supporting various local charities and organizations, which reflects their commitment to social responsibility.


15. Hoffman Building Technologies

  • Website: hbtech.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Greensboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1947
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: hoffman-building-technologies

Hoffman Building Technologies, based in Greensboro, North Carolina, has been a player in the building automation industry since its founding in 1947. The company focuses on energy solutions and systems integration, providing a range of services that include building automation systems, critical technologies, and training for various sectors such as healthcare and education. Their approach is centered on enhancing building efficiency and occupant comfort through integrated solutions. Hoffman Building Technologies collaborates with notable partners to deliver advanced building management systems that optimize energy use, reduce operational costs, and improve overall building performance. Their commitment to energy efficiency is evident in their projects, which often involve sophisticated controls and analytics to monitor and manage energy consumption effectively.


16. Building Automation Services

  • Website: basllco.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: High Point, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: buildingautomationservices

Building Automation Services (BAS), founded in 1985 and based in High Point, North Carolina, is a private company that specializes in building automation and environmental controls. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, BAS focuses on providing mechanical controls, enterprise security systems, and fixed wireless solutions. Their services cater to municipalities, educational institutions, and corporate clients, emphasizing energy efficiency and security enhancements. BAS is known for its innovative approach to integrating existing infrastructure with modern technology, allowing clients to maximize their energy efficiency without incurring the costs associated with complete system overhauls. The company prides itself on its objective analysis and hands-on support, ensuring that clients receive practical and user-friendly solutions tailored to their specific needs. BAS has established itself as a reliable partner in the industry, committed to improving building operations and fostering sustainable practices.


17. Phononic Inc

  • Website: phononic.com
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, Taiwan 5%, Thailand 3%, Other 3%
  • Latest funding: Series E-K, January 2023
  • Founded year: 2008
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: phononic

Phononic Inc, founded in 2008 and based in Durham, North Carolina, is a technology company that specializes in advanced cooling solutions. The firm focuses on solid state technology, which is applied across various sectors including data centers, HVAC systems, and cold chain logistics. Their innovative products are designed to improve thermal management efficiency, thereby enhancing performance and sustainability for their clients. Phononic's offerings include the TTAP (Terminal Treatment of Air with Peltier) platform, which provides a refrigerant-free HVAC solution that is both energy-efficient and cost-effective. The company has garnered attention for its commitment to sustainability, aiming to transform how cooling and heating are approached in modern applications. With a workforce of approximately 125 employees, Phononic continues to push the boundaries of thermal management technology, making significant strides in energy efficiency across multiple industries.


18. CMS Controls

  • Website: cms-controls.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1971
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: cms-controls

CMS Controls, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a private company founded in 1971. With a workforce of approximately 51-200 employees, the firm specializes in building automation and control systems. Their offerings include a range of services such as building automation, analytics, systems integration, and energy management solutions. CMS Controls is dedicated to helping businesses and organizations improve operational efficiency and achieve energy savings across various facility types. They have executed numerous installations throughout the Southeast, showcasing their commitment to cost-effective energy-saving designs. The company also provides maintenance services, ensuring that systems operate at peak performance, which further supports energy efficiency initiatives.


19. Crenshaw Consulting Engineers

  • Website: crenshawconsulting.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: crenshawconsulting

Crenshaw Consulting Engineers, Inc., based in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a private engineering firm established in 1995. With a workforce of 38 employees, the company provides a comprehensive range of engineering services, including mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural design. A notable aspect of their operations is their emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability. They offer specialized services such as LEED coordination, energy modeling, and building commissioning, which are critical for optimizing energy use in buildings. Their portfolio includes a variety of projects across sectors like commercial, educational, and governmental, showcasing their capability to address complex engineering challenges. Crenshaw Consulting has also been involved in numerous solar and renewable energy initiatives, further solidifying their role in promoting energy efficiency within the industry.


20. Optima Engineering

  • Website: optimaengineering.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1992
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: optima-engineering-pa

Optima Engineering, founded in 1992 and based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is an engineering firm that specializes in mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and technology design services. With a workforce of approximately 115 employees, the company serves clients across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and commercial properties. Optima Engineering is dedicated to enhancing building performance and sustainability through its consulting, design, and project management services. The firm has a notable focus on energy efficiency, having designed several Net Zero Energy buildings and implemented renewable energy solutions such as solar PV systems. Their commitment to sustainability is further highlighted by their recognition in the industry, including awards for their innovative designs and contributions to energy-efficient practices. Optima Engineering's expertise in commissioning and advanced technologies like BIM and VDC also supports their mission to improve energy efficiency in building operations.



Energy Efficiency Insights: Key Companies in North Carolina


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
PowerSecure, Inc.Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)501-10001991Corporate
Crete UnitedCharlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002020Private
MCI - Mechanical Contractors, LLCCharlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001948Corporate
Commercial Green SolutionsCharlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-502014Private
Piedmont Service GroupRaleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)201-5001971Private
Southern Energy ManagementRaleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002001Corporate
Building Efficiency Resources, LLCBrevard, North Carolina, United States (USA)1-102010Private
Sud Associates, P.A.Durham, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-501979Private
Phase Change Solutions, Inc.Greensboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002011Venture Capital
PalmettoCharlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)201-5002009Private Equity
Hoffman & Hoffman, Inc.Greensboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)501-10001947Private
CCAC Building SolutionsGreensboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001967Private
United Mechanical CorporationCharlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001977Private
Performance Heating CoolingWilson, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-501993Private
Hoffman Building TechnologiesGreensboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001947Private
Building Automation ServicesHigh Point, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-501985Private
Phononic IncDurham, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002008Venture Capital
CMS ControlsRaleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001971Private
Crenshaw Consulting EngineersRaleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-501995Private
Optima EngineeringCharlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001992Private


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