“The CETCAP program was key in understanding the documentation that is needed for submission and maintain clear records to make filing easier.” – David Reedy, Sustainability Coordinator
Project overview
The City of Issaquah, a small local government with approximately 282 employees, is located 17 miles south of Seattle. The city engaged the CETCAP team to explore energy tax credits through elective pay, aiming to secure funding for eight electric vehicles scheduled to be placed into service by December 2024.
Technical assistance provided
With the help of L4GG and filing partner Giraffe Financial, the City of Issaquah was able to file for $52,200 — 12% of the total project cost. The city was able to qualify for the Internal Revenue 45W: commercial clean vehicle credit for four Ford Lightnings, two Chevy Blazers, and one Ford E-Transit.
Legal partner Avisen also assisted Issaquah with technical guidance in early 2025 prior to filing. With funding support sourced from Puget Sound Energy, the Washington State Department of Commerce, and King County, the city was able to make notable strides toward installing EV chargers.
Outcomes and impact
The elective pay provision has sparked discussions about expanding the City’s EV fleet, installing charging stations, and developing solar projects. The city plans to submit more applications for these initiatives in 2026.
“The city noted that after EVs were placed in service, staff was highly satisfied with their capabilities and comfort.”
– Local public official
Washington Clean Energy Tax Credit Assistance Program (CETCAP)
In partnership with Lawyers for Good Government and Giraffe Financial, the Washington Clean Energy Tax Credit Assistance Program (CETCAP) team has helped more than 150 organizations statewide secure hundreds of thousands of dollars in tax credits by providing legal and filing assistance for hundreds of projects.
