It's probably not a coincidence, but more of a convenience that PaceControls LLC operates out of an old air conditioning factory it completely re-tooled in York. While myriad start-ups are popping up with a focus on solar, wind and other alternative energy sources, this green technology company has honed in on energy efficiency controls for existing HVAC and refrigeration systems (HVACR). As it turns out, meeting people's immediate needs in a way that requires little lifestyle change or investment can be a big selling point.

PaceControls' PACE2 technology consists of energy efficiency algorithms that establish optimal run times for HVACR compressors and burner units--the primary energy-consumption elements in most HVACR equipment. The units pace the equipment's consumption of electricity, natural gas, fuel oil or propane, allowing for more efficient heat transfer and boosting the overall efficiency of the HVACR unit.  The company sold 1,000 units in the third quarter of 2009 alone, bringing its presence in the marketplace to 10,000 units at major customers that include McDonald's, Whole Foods and the City of New York.

The company boasts 30 independent studies and trials and more than 9 million datapoints backing up its claims, a rare combination in an era that has seen many businesses attempt to "green-wash" the marketplace. Third-party testing reveals a 26 percent energy savings on heat pumps, 23.4 percent savings on 30-ton chiller units, and 27.3 percent savings on package and split system air conditioning units.  Investors are taking notice. PaceControls received a nearly $250,000 investment from Ben Franklin Technology Partners in the fall of 2009.

The units are priced at about $1,000 per unit application to start, and have been extremely well-received by commercial and residential customers alike. The company expects to hire several highly-skilled technical and business development employees heading into 2010 and beyond.