Energy-saving upgrades make sense on several levels. First, you’ll spend less on your energy costs. Second, there are several rebates and programs available to defer some of the initial cost of the upgrades. Finally, you can feel good knowing you’re conserving our Earth’s resources. California offers many incentives in the form of rebates, tax exemptions, and special programs to help make energy-saving alternatives more affordable.
California’s Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) Program
California’s Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) Program is designed to provide homeowners and renters who qualify with free home weatherization services. The program is available to homeowners and renters who receive gas and electric services from any California-based energy service provider and qualify financially. If you are eligible for the Energy Savings Assistance Program, a professional contractor will visit your house and provide the following services:
- Insulation of your attic
- Installation of energy-efficient lights
- Weather stripping services for your door
- Replacement of eligible appliances
- Caulking
- Minor repairs
- Installation of low-flow shower heads
Contact your energy service provider to see if you qualify.
Energy Upgrade California Home Upgrade Program
The Energy Upgrade California Home Upgrade Program focuses on the energy efficiency of the entire home. This package approach will increase your home’s energy efficiency, cut down on your energy use, and increase the overall comfort of your home.
The program includes two tiers: Home Upgrade and Advanced Home Upgrade. Base measures such as duct replacement and sealing of ducts and attics fall under the Home Upgrade Program. The Advanced Home Upgrade level involves insulation of floors, walls, and ducts and replacement of heating and air conditioning units, water heaters, and windows.
Rebates are determined on a point scale. The more improvements you make, the more points you will earn and the greater your rebate will be. Homeowners who take advantage of the program will be eligible for up to $5,500 in rebates. Additionally, they’ll use less energy, spend less on energy, increase the value of their home, and have better indoor air quality.
California’s Solar Incentives
California is making major strides in solar energy. In fact, all newly built homes must have solar installed by 2020. As a clean, renewable energy source, solar is a cost-effective, environmentally-friendly power alternative. Fortunately, there are incentives to help make the switch to solar more affordable.
Rebates are available through some municipal utilities in the state. Additionally, some utilities will pay for the energy you produce through solar or offer net metering credits. Check with your energy provider for details.
Solar installations are exempt from additional property taxes until 2024. That can mean an exemption of up to $11,000 from the value of your home.
California offers the Single-Family Affordable Solar Housing (SASH) Program for low-income families looking to go solar. More information can be found by contacting Grid Alternatives. Additionally, the state’s Multi-Family Affordable Solar Housing (MASH) Program assists landlords in installing solar panels on affordable housing.
Finally, in addition to California’s incentives, federal Energy Star rebates are available for the purchase of several major appliances. Visit the Energy Star site to search for rebates available in your area.
Sunergy is committed to changing the way energy is produced and construction projects are built by providing safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly options for our communities. We would love to work with you to explain your options for affordable solar and efficiency upgrades. Call today to learn how we can help.