Solar Rebates for California Home and Business
Alameda Power & Telecom offers an incentive program to their customers who install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Rebates will be provided to their commercial and residential customers on a per-watt AC basis, which, in keeping with the terms of the California Solar Initiative, will decline over the life of the program according to a ten-year schedule. Each succeeding year has a lower incentive amount and a higher maximum aggregate capacity for installations. Additional restrictions and eligibility requirements, as well as the full 10-year schedule can be found on the website below.  Contact:  Alameda Power & Telecom, Solar Electric Rebate Program, P.O. Box H, Alameda, CA 94501; 510-814-6403; http://www.alamedapt.com/electricity/solar_pv_info.html
Application:  http://www.alamedapt.com/electricity/solar_rebate.app_081808.pdf

Up to $100,000 for Green Building Projects

Anaheim Public Utilities offers the Green Building Program to assist in implementing green building design and construction in the City of Anaheim. The program rewards developers, owners, and construction firms who select building practices that encourage environmental innovation beneficial to both the health of the Anaheim community and its economy. Services and incentives include:

• waive plan check fees: maximum $50,000/project
• new construction incentives: maximum $75,000/commercial facility
• Energy Star® appliance incentives: maximum $100,000/project
• design review assistance: maximum $10,000
• LEED certification: maximum $30,000
• green building rater incentives: maximum $6,000
• technical assistance and support throughout the application process

Individuals interested in participating in the program should contact the Green Building Action Team here: http://www.anaheim.net/utilities/adv_svc_prog/green_power/Grnbuild.pdf or contact:  Anaheim Public Utilities, Anaheim City Hall, 200 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92805; 714-765-4259 or 888-459-4205; http://www.anaheim.net/section.asp?id=162

Incentives for Installing Energy Saving Systems

Anaheim Public Utilities offers a rebate to its residential and business customers who install a solar photovoltaic (PV) system. The incentive for residential customers is $4/watt AC. For commercial installations, the incentive is $2.80/watt AC.  Residential customers who participate in the Home Investment Package (HIP) get a solar bonus of $1 more per installed Watt.  To optimize the solar energy installation, residential applicants can participate in the Home Utility Check-Up program offered by Anaheim Public Utilities. To qualify, PV systems must have a minimum capacity of 1,000 watts.  To learn more, contact:  Anaheim Public Utilities, Anaheim Advantage, City Hall West, 201 S. Anaheim Blvd., Suite 801, Anaheim, CA 92805; 714-765-4182; Fax:  714-765-4152; http://www.anaheim.net/article.asp?id=1644
Application:  http://www.anaheim.net/utilities/adv_svc_prog/pv/pv_intro.pdf (residential); http://www.anaheim.net/utilities/adv_svc_prog/Solar4HIP.pdf (HIP participants); http://www.anaheim.net/utilities/pdf/CommercialPhotovoltaicProgramFinal.pdf (commercial)

Pay Only 50% to Install Solar Energy System

The City of Banning Electric Department provides their commercial and residential customers with rebates on the purchase of photovoltaic (PV) systems. The rebates are worth $4 per watt and cannot exceed 50% of the total system cost which includes photovoltaic cells, modules, mounting or tracking structures, wiring, inverters, and utility required interconnection equipment.  To learn more, contact:  City of Banning, Public Benefits Department, 176 E. Lincoln Street, Banning, CA 92220; 951-849-5224; http://ci.banning.ca.us/index.asp?NID=122

$37,500 for Renewable and Solar Energy Projects
Berkeley's Financing Initiative for Renewable and Solar Technology (FIRST) allows property owners to borrow money from the city's Sustainable Energy Financing District to install photovoltaic (PV) systems and repay the cost over 20 years through an annual special tax on property tax bills. The FIRST Program will provide financing up to $37,500 per installation for either residential or commercial properties. Payments will be made through a special tax on the participant's property tax bill. If the owner moves out of their house during the 20 year repayment period, the property tax assessment and the PV system remain with the property.  Get more details by contacting:  FIRST Administrator - Renewable Funding, Berkeley FIRST Program, 1746 Broadway, 3rd Floor, Oakland, CA 94612; 510-451-7900; http://www.cityofberkeley.info/ContentDisplay.aspx?id=26580
Application:  http://www.berkeleyfirst.renewfund.com/apply-now/application-process

Rebate Incentive for Installing PV Systems

Burbank Water & Power (BWP) offers customers a rebate for PV systems. As of October 2008, the incentive is $3.00/W AC if the customer keeps the RECs or $3.50/W AC if BWP gets the RECS. Additionally, schools, affordable housing projects and non-profits can get a rebate of $4.00/W if they give the RECs to BWP.  Owners of systems larger than 30 kW can receive a performance based incentive (PBI) for the actual electricity their system produces during the first 5 years of operation. As of October 2008 the PBI is $0.414/kWh if customer keeps RECs, $0.483/kWh if customer grants RECs to BWP, and $0.552/kWh for schools, affordable housing, non-profits. Owners of systems smaller than 30 kW can elect to receive the PBI rather than the up-front payment, but systems over 30 kW can only receive the PBI.  All customers applying for a Burbank Water and Power solar incentive are required to first conduct an energy-efficiency audit of the building where the solar system would be installed. To learn more, contact:  Burbank Water and Power, 164 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502; 818-238-3653; Fax:  818-238-3594; http://www.burbankwaterandpower.com/incentives-for-all-customers/solar-photovoltaic-power

California Solar Initiative
The California Solar Initiative (CSI) provides more than $3 billion in incentives for solar-energy projects.  The CPUC manages the solar program for non-residential projects and projects on existing homes, while the CEC oversees the New Solar Homes Partnership, targeting the residential new construction market. For a complete list of incentives, visit:  http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/PUC/energy/solar or contact:  Program Manager, California Solar Initiative Program, PG&E Integrated Processing Center, P.O. Box 7265, San Francisco, CA 94120-7265; 800-743-5000; Fax: 415-973-2510; http://www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov/news/program_updates/2006-12-06_PROGRAM_TRANSITION.PDF

Businesses Get $75,000 for Solar Water Heating
In addition to solar electric projects, the California Solar Initiative (CSI) also provides incentives through a solar water heating program. This program is available to only retrofit systems for existing residential, commercial, agricultural, and industrial electricity customers of San Diego Gas & Electric.  For residential and small commercial systems, the maximum incentive is $1,500 and for larger commercial systems, the maximum incentive is $75,000.  Incentives will be paid to qualified, licensed contractors to be passed through to the customer or directly to owners of self-installed systems. Contact: Center for Sustainable Energy, 8690 Balboa Ave, Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92123; 877-333-SWHP; Fax:  858-244-1178; http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/PUC/energy/Solar/080220_SD_SolarPilot.htm

Solar Incentives for Newly Built Homes

The New Solar Homes Partnership (NSHP) is a 10-year, $400 million program to encourage solar in new homes by working with builders and developers to incorporate into the homes high levels of energy efficiency and high-performing solar systems. The NSHP specifically targets the market-rate and affordable housing single-family and multi-family sectors.  Incentives are determined by the housing type and the expected performance of the system, which depends on factors like equipment efficiency, geographic location, orientation, tilt, shading, and time-dependent valuation. To qualify for incentives, the residential dwelling unit must be achieve at least 15% higher energy efficiency than the current Title 24 Building Energy Efficiency Standards. The incentive is paid once the system is installed, operational, and has met all program requirements.  For a complete list of all four incentive levels, see the website below.  Contact:   Public Information Officer, California Energy Commission, New Solar Homes Partnership, 1516 Ninth Street, MS-45, Sacramento, CA 95814-5512; 800-555-7794; http://www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov/nshp/index.html

Rebates for PV Systems

Through The City of Healdsburg's PV Buy-Down Program, residential and commercial customers are eligible for a $2.52-per-watt AC rebate on qualifying grid-connected PV systems. In keeping with SB1, the incentive level will decrease annually over the 10 year life of the program. Rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis.  Other rebate incentives are available.  Contact:  City of Healdsburg, Attn: Efficiency Services, PO Box 421, Clackamas, OR 97015; 503-658-4239; http://www.ci.healdsburg.ca.us/cms/content.jsp?id=com.tms.cms.section.Section_fin_Energy_Efficiency_Program_Rebates

Cash Incentives for Installing a PV System
The City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU) PV Partners Program offers incentives to customers that install qualifying PV systems. The program, which has a budget of approximately $13 million over 10 years, is divided into 10 steps, each funded at $1.3 million. Each step is allocated across four customer rate classes: residential, small/medium commercial, large commercial and non-profit/public sector.  There is a specified PV capacity allocated to each rate class.  For specific rebate incentives per class, see the website.  Contact:  Utility Marketing Services, City of Palo Alto Utilities, 250 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94301; 650-329-2241; Fax:  650-617-3140; http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/depts/utl/news/details.asp?NewsID=622&TargetID=224

Get $75,000 for Solar Water Heating
The City of Palo Utilities is offering incentives for their residential, commercial and industrial customers to install solar water heating systems on their homes and facilities. There are two incentive options: Prescriptive Method and Area Method. Residential and Small Commercial installations must use the Prescriptive Method, which is calculated based on the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC) rated savings of the system, and a design-based Solar Orientation Factor (SOF). Prescriptive incentives are capped at $1,500. Large Commercial installations must use the Area Method, which is based on the type of system installed, SRCC rated savings of collectors in various Climate Zones, and SOF. Area Method incentives are capped at $75,000.  For more information:  City of Palo Alto, Utility Marketing Services, 250 Hamilton Avenue, 3rd Floor, Palo Alto, CA 94301; 650-329-2241; http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/news/displaynews.asp?NewsID=1032&targetid=223

$50,000 for Business Owners to Install Solar Electric System
Customers of Colton Electric Utility who install a photovoltaic system that is connected to the utility's electric system are eligible for a rebate of $4.00/watt (PTC), up to 50% of total installed costs. The maximum incentive is $20,000 for residential customers and $50,000 for commercial customers. System size must not exceed the peak load of the facility.   Contact:  Colton Public Utilities, 150 S. 10th Street, Colton, CA 92324; 909-370-5561; Fax:  909-370-5132; http://www.coltononline.com/csprog.html

Fee Waiver for Green Building
The City of Costa Mesa waives building permit fees for green installations. The City Council thinks that waiving these fees could act as an incentive to encourage the community to build green and reduce its carbon footprint. Resolution 07-71 waives permit fees for green installations, and provides a rebate for the cost of green building certification, not to exceed the cost of the building permit.  Green installations include home and business construction improvements requiring building permits for installing class A roof assembly, residential cool roofs, garden roofs, insulation above minimum energy code standards, renewable energy systems, biomass, wind turbine, geothermal heat pumps, cogeneration fuel cells, photovoltaics, skylights, tankless domestic water heaters, waterless urinals, grey water system, high performance windows and doors, high efficiency HVAC systems, and other green installations or innovations as approved by the Building Official.  Contact:  City of Costa Mesa Development Services Department, 77 Fair Drive, Second Floor, Costa Mesa, CA  92626; 714-754-5277; Fax:  714-754-4856; http://www.ci.costa-mesa.ca.us/departments/green-building/green-bldg.htm

Incentives for Renewable Energy Projects
The California Energy Commission offers cash incentives to promote the installation of grid-connected small wind and fuel cell renewable energy electric-generating systems through its Emerging Renewables Program. To qualify for an incentive, the participant must be a customer of one of the utilities contributing funds to support the program: Pacific Gas& Electric Company, Southern California Edison Company, San Diego Gas & Electric Company, or Southern California Water Company (doing business as Bear Valley Electric Service).  Funding levels for the Emerging Renewables Program are:
• Small Wind Turbines (up to 50 kW): $2.50/W for first 7.5 kW and $1.50/W for increments > 7.5 kW and < 30 kW 
• Fuel cells (<30 kW) using renewable fuels: $3.00/W for systems less than 30 kW
Rebates for eligible renewable energy systems installed on affordable housing projects are available at 25% above the standard rebate level up to 75% of the system’s installed cost.  Contact:  Energy Call Center, California Energy Commission, Emerging Renewables Program, 1516 9th Street MS-45, Sacramento, CA  95814-5512; 800-555-7794; Fax:  916-653-2543; http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/erprebate/

Cash Back If You Go Solar
The Solar Solutions program provides all customer groups with an incentive to install photovoltaic (PV) systems on their homes and buildings. The rebate levels for 2008 are $4.00 per watt (up to 50% of total costs) for the installation of a photovoltaic (PV) system of a size less than or equal to 30kW. Larger systems can receive a rebate of $ 0.490 per kWh of actual electric production for the first 5 years. Systems installed at qualified affordable housing projects are eligible to receive larger incentives. Systems must be sized to produce no more than 125% of the customer’s past 12 months kWh consumption. The minimum installed cost for the customer after all grants, rebates, and a GWP incentive is $2.50/watt.  Eligible costs include expenditures for photovoltaic panels, mounting and tracking structures, wiring, inverters, foundations for free standing systems, interconnection equipment and meters, as well as applicable State licenses, permits, fees, and sales taxes. In addition to the $4/W incentive, all necessary City of Glendale licenses, permits, or fees are 100% reimbursable.  Contact:  Glendale Water and Power, 141 North Glendale Avenue, Glendale, CA 91206; 818-548-2750; http://www.glendalewaterandpower.com/save_money/solar/program.aspx

$10,000 Cash Back for Going Solar
Hercules Municipal Utility offers a $3-per-watt AC rebate to its residential and commercial customers who purchase and install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Systems up to 10 kW are eligible, and the maximum incentive is $10,000.  To learn more, contact: Hercules Municipal Utility, 111 Civic Drive, Hercules, CA 94547; 510-799-8209; http://www.ci.hercules.ca.us/index.aspx?page=160

Rebates for PV Systems
Through the PV Solutions Rebate Program, Imperial Irrigation District provides rebates to its residential and commercial customers who install grid-tied photovoltaic systems. The rebate level will decrease over time as specific capacity goals are reached. As of February 2008, the first and second tier of incentives have been fully claimed. The rebate level for the third round of installations is $2.42/W-AC.  For more details, contact:  IID Public Programs Office, Imperial Irrigation District, 1284 Main St., El Centro, CA  92243; 760-303-7756, ext. 6 or 760-339-9032; Fax:  760-482-9611; http://www.iid.com/Energy_Index.php?pid=388
Application: http://www.iid.com/Media/APPLICATION-FOR-DIST-GEN-INTERC.pdf

Solar Incentive Program for Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power's (LADWP) Solar Incentive Program has 10 phases with declining incentive levels as certain installed megawatt (MW) targets are met. There are separate goals for residential and non-residential participants, and the incentive levels for each will decline irrespective of the other. Starting at $0.14 per kilowatt-hour (adjusted for expected performance) for residential, non-profit and governmental participants, and $0.11 per kilowatt-hour (adjusted for expected performance) for commercial participants, the incentive levels will decrease by one cent ($0.01) every time a MW goal is reached. Bonus incentives of $0.02 per kilowatt-hour (residential, non-profit, government) and $0.01 per kilowatt-hour (commercial) are available if the installed system was manufactured in Los Angeles.   To find out more, contact:  Solar Program Information, Los Angeles Department of Water & Power, 111 North Hope Street, Los Angeles, CA 90051; 800-473-3652 or 213-367-4122; http://www.ladwp.com/ladwp/cms/ladwp000787.jsp

New Green Construction Projects Get Free Help & Fee Waiver
The Community Development Agency of Marin County provides incentives for new construction that incorporates green elements. The incentive program includes the following incentives:  waiver of the Title 24 energy fee (new construction projects only); fast-track permit processing; and free green building technical assistance, design consultation, resources and information for all Marin County residents.  Contact:  Marin County Community Development Agency, 3501 Civic Center Drive, #308, San Rafael, CA 94903-4157; 415-507-2797; http://www.co.marin.ca.us/depts/CD/main/comdev/advance/Sustainability.cfm

New Green Construction Projects Get Free Help & Fee Waiver
The Community Development Agency of Marin County provides incentives for new construction that incorporates green elements. The incentive program includes the following incentives:  waiver of the Title 24 energy fee (new construction projects only); fast-track permit processing; and free green building technical assistance, design consultation, resources and information for all Marin County residents.  Contact:  Marin County Community Development Agency, 3501 Civic Center Drive, #308, San Rafael, CA 94903-4157; 415-507-2797; http://www.co.marin.ca.us/depts/CD/main/comdev/advance/Sustainability.cfm

Up to $500 to Install Solar Energy Systems
The rebate program offered by the Marin County Sustainability Team provides incentives to local residences, businesses and County employees who install solar energy systems. Rebates include $500 for a photovoltaic system, $300 for a solar hot water heater, and $200 for a solar pool heater. To qualify for this rebate, the applicant must live in unincorporated Marin County or be an employee of Marin County. In addition, the applicant must submit an energy efficiency checklist and the systems must meet the minimum qualifications listed on the program website.  Contact:  Marin County Community Development Agency, 3501 Civic Center Drive, #308, San Rafael, CA 94903-4157; 415-507-2797;  http://www.co.marin.ca.us/depts/CD/main/comdev/advance/Sustainability/Energy/solar/incentives/solar_financing.cfm#local_incentives

Up to $70,000 for Businesses to Put in a PV System
Merced Irrigation District (MID) offers their residential, commercial and non-profit customers a rebate for installing solar electric photovoltaic (PV) systems on their homes and offices. In keeping with the terms of Senate Bill 1, the incentive amount is scheduled to drop every year during the 10-year life of the program. The rebate available for 2008 is $2.80 per Watt (W), adjusted based on the expected performance of the system.  Maximum incentives are:  residential: $8,400 and commercial: $70,000.  Contact:  Merced Irrigation District, 744 W. 20th Street, Merced, CA 95340; 209-722-5761, ext. 119; Fax:  209-726-7010; http://www.mercedid.org/solarprogram

Photovoltaic Rebate Program Offers Rebates
Modesto Irrigation District offers a photovoltaic rebate program for all of their electric customers. The capacity-based rebate is $2.60 per installed watt AC, per customer account, not to exceed 50% of total project costs. Public agencies will receive an additional $0.47 per watt, bringing their incentive up to $3.07 per watt.  The performance-based incentive is $0.233 per kWh of actual electricity production over a 10-year period. The rebate levels will decline over time.  To learn more, contact: PV Program Coordinator, Modesto Irrigation District, 1231 11th Street, Modesto, CA 95352; 209-526-7455; Fax:  209-526-7575; http://www.mid.org/rebates/solar/default.htm

Pasadena Solar Initiative
Pasadena Water & Power (PWP) offers its electric customers a rebate for photovoltaic (PV) installations. The rebate amount varies depending on the customer class installing the system and the system's size.  As required by the California Solar Initiative, the PBI and EPBB incentive levels will step down annually over the 10 year life of this program. The 2008 base rate for the EPBB is $4 per watt AC for non-profits, and $3.50 per watt for all others. These levels are reduced depending on the Clean Power Estimator's analysis of the system. The 2008 rebate rate for the PBI is $0.632/kWh for non-profit applicants, and $0.552 / kWh for all others.  To learn more, contact:  Pasadena Water and Power, 150 Los Robles Avenue, Ste. 200, Pasadena, CA 91101; 626-744-4731; http://www.cityofpasadena.net/waterandpower/solar/default.asp

$1,500 to Make Your Property Energy Efficient
Through the Rebates for Multi-Family Properties Program, PG&E offers rebates for owners and managers of multi-family properties of five or more units. Insulation, appliances, HVAC and lighting improvements are among the eligible products for rebates and owners or managers can receive up to $1,500 in incentives per property.   Contact:  Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Residential Programs, P.O. Box 7265, San Francisco, CA 94120; 800-933-9555; http://www.pge.com/myhome/saveenergymoney/eebuyersguides/appliances/

Cash Rebates for Builders That Use Energy Saving Features
Residential New Construction Rebates are available for builders of residential dwellings that incorporate energy efficient features. Incentives are available if builders meet the Energy Star requirements – 15% more efficient than required by the 2005 Title 24 Energy Code. For those homes that do not meet the Energy Star label but still include energy conserving features, PG&E offers prescriptive rebates to builders.  To learn more, contact:  Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Residential Programs, P.O. Box 7265, San Francisco, CA 94120; 800-342-7737;  http://www.pge.com/mybusiness/energysavingsrebates/incentivesbyindustry/newconstruction/

$20,000 to Install a PV System
Plumas-Sierra REC offers an incentive for its customers to install photovoltaic (PV) systems on homes and businesses. Rebates are available for qualifying systems between one kilowatt (kW) and 25 kW; the rebate amount is based on the installed capacity. The rebate level will step down over the 10-year life of the program. During the first program year, the rebate level is $2.80 per watt AC; the level will decrease by 7% annually thereafter. The program is available to residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural and non-profit members of Plumas-Sierra REC. There are annual incentive caps for each customer class:  $6,000 for residential, agricultural, non-profit applications; $12,000 for small commercial applications; and $20,000 for large commercial and industrial applications.  Contact: Plumas-Sierra REC, 73233 State Route 70, Portola, CA  96122-7064; 530-832-4261, ext. 6004; http://www.psrec.org/energy_renewable_solar.php?sec=enersol&pag=enerrenew

Property Tax Exemption for up to 100% Cost of System
Section 73 of the California Revenue and Taxation Code allows a property tax exclusion for certain types of solar energy systems installed between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 2009.  This exclusion also includes the construction of an active solar energy system incorporated by an owner-builder in the initial construction of a new building that the owner-builder does not intend to occupy or use. Components included under the exclusion include storage devices, power conditioning equipment, transfer equipment, and parts. Pipes and ducts that are used to carry both solar energy and energy derived from other sources qualify for the exemption only to the extent of 75% of their full cash value. Likewise, dual-use equipment for solar-electric systems qualifies for the exclusion only to the extent of 75% of its value.  System owners should contact the applicable county assessor's office for further information:  http://www.boe.ca.gov/proptaxes/assessors.htm or contact:  Tax Specialist – BOE, California State Board of Equalization, P.O. Box 942879, Sacramento, CA 94279-0090; 800-400-7115; http://www.boe.ca.gov/proptaxes/pdf/lta08037.pdf

Up to $8,000 for Energy Upgrades at Home & Business
The Earth Advantage Rebate Program offers rebates to residential and business customers of Redding Electric Utility (REU) for solar PV, solar thermal, and geothermal heat pump systems.  Maximum rebate amounts are as follows:  PV: None; Solar thermal: $1,000 for the 1st panel, $500 for the 2nd panel, $250 for the 3rd panel; Solar PV attic fans: $100/unit; and Geothermal: $8,000.  Customers are paid directly by check for the PV and thermal rebates and receive a bill credit for the attic fan rebate. REU reserves the right to inspect all systems before issuing the rebate.  Contact:  Redding Electric Utility, Earth Advantage Rebate Program, P.O. Box 496071, Redding, CA 96049; 530-339-7215; Fax:  530-339-7389; http://www.reupower.com/energysvc/energy-rebates.asp

$$$ for Energy Efficient Improvements
Redding Electric Utility offers a variety of financial incentives for energy efficiency to its customers through its Earth Advantage Rebate Program. Rebates are for ENERGY STAR rated appliances, weatherization measures, HVAC equipment, renewable energy sources, and lighting equipment. Rebates are limited to upgrades and efficiency improvements on existing equipment, not new construction. Incentives maximum amounts range from $500 up to $8,000.  To learn more about individual rebates, see the website or contact:  Earth Advantage Rebates, Redding Electric Utility, PO Box 496071, Redding, CA 96049-6071; 530-339-7215; http://www.reupower.com/energysvc/energy-rebates.asp

Businesses Get $66,000 to Install a PV Solar System
Roseville Electric residential customers who install a qualifying photovoltaic (PV) system are eligible to receive a rebate of $3.00 per watt-AC, up to $10,000. Roseville's commercial and non-profit customers are eligible for a rebate of $3.00 per Watt-AC, up to $66,000.  For more details, contact:  Roseville Electric, 2090 Hilltop Circle, Roseville, CA 95747; 916-774-5617; http://www.roseville.ca.us/electric/business_customers/photovolatic_buydown_program.asp
Application:  http://www.roseville.ca.us/civica/filebank/blobdload.asp?BlobID=7757

Green Building Incentives
The Green County San Bernardino program includes a number of incentives to encourage residents, builders, and businesses to adopt more sustainable practices. Homebuilders who build homes in the county which meet the California Green Builder standard will receive expedited plan checks, guaranteed timelines, and priority field inspection service. Residents and businesses in existing buildings can also receive incentives for improving their building's energy use. Permit fees will be waived for the installation of solar energy systems, wind-generated electrical systems, tankless water heaters, and highly efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.  Contact:  Regional Building Inspector Supervisor, San Bernardino County Building and Safety, 385 N. Arrowhead Ave., 1st Floor, San Bernardino, CA 92415-0181; 909-387-4246; Fax: 909-387-4301; http://www.solarsantamonica.com

Build Green with These Incentives
The County of San Diego has a Green Building Incentive Program designed to promote the use of resource efficient energy usage in new and remodeled residential and commercial buildings. As part of the program, the County will waive the fee for the building permit and plan check for a photovoltaic system. In addition, for qualifying resource conservation measures, the County will reduce building permit and plan check fees by 7.5% and grant expedited plan checks, saving approximately 7 to 10 days on the project timeline. To qualify for these conservation incentives, the project must comply with the program requirements for either natural resources conservation, water conservation, or energy conservation.  Other rebates and incentives may be available to those building greener and more efficient homes and buildings. For more information, contact:  County of San Diego, Department of Planning and Land Use, 5201 Ruffin Road, Suite B, San Diego, CA 92123-1666; 858-565-5920; http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dplu/greenbuildings.html

Up to $30,000 for Businesses to Install PV Systems
The City and County of San Francisco is providing rebates to residents and businesses who install photovoltaic (PV) systems on their properties. Systems must be at least one kilowatt (kW) in capacity, and there is no maximum size limit to participate. There are four distinct funding levels for residential installations, ranging from $3,000 to $6,000. Commercial, non-profit and industrial installations receive a capacity-based incentive of $1,500 per kW, up to a maximum amount of $10,000. Multi-unit residential buildings that are operated by a non-profit may receive up to $4,500 per kW (depending on the number of units) up to a maximum of $30,000.  For more information on these incentives, contact:  San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, 1155 Market Street, First Floor, San Francisco, CA 94103; 415-554-1572; http://sfwater.org/mto_main.cfm/MC_ID/12/MSC_ID/139/MTO_ID/361 

Lease Program for Solar Water Heating
Under the Solar Water Heating Program, the City of Santa Clara supplies, installs and maintains solar water heating systems for residents and businesses through its Water & Sewer Utilities Department. Solar equipment is offered by the city for the heating of swimming pools, process water, and domestic hot water. The pieces of hardware (solar collectors, controls and storage tanks) are owned and maintained by the city under a rental agreement. The renter pays an initial installation fee and a monthly utility fee. These amounts vary according to the size of the installation:  Solar Pool Heating System: installation cost is $625 plus $40 per panel; and Solar Domestic Hot Water System (Multi-Family): varies; typical installation fee for system to serve 10 dwelling units is approximately $7,500.  For more information, contact:  Solar Engineer, City of Santa Clara Water & Sewer Utility, 1500 Warburton Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95050; 408-615-2000; Fax:  408-247-0784; http://santaclaraca.gov/pub_utility/ws_water_heating.htm

Building Permit Fee Waiver for Solar Projects
The City of Santa Monica waives building permit fees for solar energy systems. The hope is that waiving these fees could act as an incentive to realizing the City’s energy goals, and could persuade the public to invest in more efficient systems for their homes and businesses.  Contact:  City of Santa Monica, 1212 5th Street, First Floor, Santa Monica, CA 90401-3126; 310-458-8229; Fax:  310-395-2138; http://www01.smgov.net/finance/treasury/fees/toc3.htm

Expedited Permitting for Green Buildings
The City of Santa Monica has an ordinance in place to encourage the construction of sustainable buildings. The ordinance allows for priority plan check processing for building projects that are registered with the United States Green Building Council for certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System. The ordinance applies to all new buildings and major renovations which total an amount exceeding fifty percent of their replacement cost. All applicants wishing to receive priority plan check processing must submit proof of LEED registration and a checklist indicating all of the credits they plan to pursue before they can receive expedited permitting. Applicants must also clearly specify the materials, systems and strategies they will use to achieve the credits in the plans submitted to the City for plan check approval.   Contact:  City of Santa Monica, 1212 5th St., 1st Floor, Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310-458-8549; Fax:  310-395-2138; http://www.smgreen.org/

$35,000 Grants to Build Environmentally Friendly
The Santa Monica Green Building Program offers financial incentives for buildings and innovative building technologies certified to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, awarding two types of grants to promote green building throughout the city. Grants for new private sector buildings are based on the level of certification attained under the LEED standards:  LEED Certified - $20,000; LEED Silver - $25,000; LEED Gold - $30,000; and LEED Platinum - $35,000.  All new construction and major renovation in commercial, affordable housing, mixed use, and multi-family residential that register for LEED (LEED-NC) certification are eligible to apply.  For more information about program, contact:  City of Santa Monica, 1212 5th St., 1st Floor, Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310-458-8549; Fax:  310-395-2138; http://greenbuildings.santa-monica.org/mainpages/whatsnew.htm

Grants up to $5,000 for Innovative Technology Use
The City of Santa Monica also offers Innovative Technology Grants for energy efficient systems and urban runoff mitigation technologies. These grants do not apply to self-generation technologies, only energy efficiency measures. However, hybrid systems, such as solar absorption chillers or solar-assisted heating systems, may be considered. Grants cover 50% of the cost of eligible systems up to a maximum of $5,000.  Innovative Technology grants are available for all building types including commercial, affordable housing, mixed use, and single- and multi-family residential in both new and retrofit applications.  For more information about program, contact:  City of Santa Monica, 1212 5th St., 1st Floor, Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310-458-8549; Fax:  310-395-2138; http://greenbuildings.santa-monica.org/mainpages/whatsnew.htm

Loan Program for Solar Energy Systems
The Solar Santa Monica program makes it easier for homeowners and local businesses to improve the efficiency of their buildings and install solar energy systems. Through this program, homes and businesses will first have a trained member of the Solar Santa Monica team conduct an on-site energy assessment to see how the home or business can save energy in the most cost effective way. The homeowner can then decide which energy improvements they want to make, and Solar Santa Monica will put them in touch with one of their preferred providers to make the improvements.  After all of the desired energy improvements have been addressed, the provider will provide a bid to the homeowner for a solar installation. If the homeowner decides to go forward with a solar installation, Solar Santa Monica will direct them to one of their preferred lending institutions to provide financing for the installation. A down payment may be required, but will not exceed $1,000.  Contact:  City of Santa Monica, 1212 5th Street, First Floor, Santa Monica, CA 90401-3126; 310-458-8229; Fax:  310-395-2138; http://www.solarsantamonica.com/

$$ to Produce Electricity Using Wind or Fuel Alternatives
The Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) offers incentives to customers who produce electricity with wind turbines and fuel cells. The incentive payments range from $1/W - $4.50/W for renewable energy systems depending on the type of system. Retail electric and gas customers of San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE) or Southern California Gas (SoCal Gas) are eligible for SGIP.  The SGIP no longer provides rebates for solar photovoltaic (PV) installations.  To find out more about this program, contact:  Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), Self-Generation Incentive Program, P.O. Box 770000, Mail Code B27P, San Francisco, CA 94177-001; 415-973-6436; Fax:  415-973-2510; http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/PUC/energy/sgip/ 

Solar Electric Buy Down Program
Silicon Valley Power (SVP) offers incentives for the installation of new grid-connected solar electric (photovoltaic, or PV) systems. Residential SVP customers are eligible for a rebate of $4.50 per watt AC up to $45,000 (10 kW). Commercial SVP customers are eligible for a rebate of $3.00 per watt AC for systems up to 100 kW. Commercial systems greater than 100 kW but smaller than 1 MW are eligible for a performance based incentive of $0.40 per kilowatt hour (kWh). Performance based incentives are paid to the customer quarterly for a period of five years.  Customers must have received an energy audit by SVP or other approved entity within the last two years to identify all other energy efficiency opportunities in addition to PV.  Contact:  Energy Conservation Hotline, Silicon Valley Power, 1500 Warburton Avenue, Santa Clara, CA 95050; 408-244-7283; Fax:  408-244-2990; http://www.siliconvalleypower.com/res/?sub=rebatessolar

More Rebates for Energy Saving Appliances
Truckee Donner Public Utility District (TDPUD) offers incentives for their residential customers to increase the energy efficiency of their homes. Participants must be a TDPUD electric customer (and water customer for the clothes washers) to participate in TDPUD’s conservation rebate programs. Rebates are offered for:  dish washers, refrigerators, clothes washers, heat pumps and more.  Incentives range from $2 up to $250.  Contact:  Truckee Donner Public Utility District, PO Box 309, 11570 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96160; 580-582-3931 or 530-587-3896; http://www.tdpud.org/index.php?cId=34
Application:  http://www.tdpud.org/pdf/Rebate%20program%20pamphlet,May07.pdf

$25,000 to Go Green
The Truckee Donner Public Utility District is participating in the California Solar Initiative (CSI) by offering rebates to its customers who install photovoltaic (PV) systems. The incentive levels will step down annually during its 10 year existence. Currently, the incentive level is set at $5 per kilowatt (kW), adjusted based on expected-performance, with incentives capped at $15,000 for residential systems and $25,000 for commercial. Systems up to 2 MW may be installed, but the rebate will be applied to just the first 3 kW for residential and 5 kW for commercial systems.  Contact:  Truckee Donner Public Utility District, PV Buy Down Program, PO Box 309, 11570 Donner Pass Road, Truckee, CA 96160; 530-582-3922; http://www.tdpud.org/index.php?cId=62

PV System Installation Rebate
Turlock Irrigation District (TID) offers an incentive program to their customers who install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. In keeping with the terms of the California Solar Initiative, the incentive payment levels will decline over the life of the program in 10 steps as certain MW levels of PV systems are installed within the District. The incentive levels for the first step are $4 per watt AC of installed capacity for their residential customers, and $2.80 per watt AC for non-residential systems.  All existing customers will be required to have an energy efficiency audit conducted for their home or business as part of the PV reservation.  Contact:  Turlock Irrigation District, 333 East Canal Drive, P.O. Box 949, Turlock, CA 95380; 209-883-8506; http://www.tid.org/Res/Solar/index.htm

$15,000 for Business PV System Installation
Through Ukiah Utilities’ PV Buy-down Program, residential and commercial customers are eligible for a $2.52-per-watt AC rebate on qualifying grid-connected PV systems up to a maximum system size of 1 MW. In keeping with SB1, the incentive level will decrease annually on July 1 over the 10 year life of the program. Rebates are limited to $6,000 per residential installation and $15,000 per commercial installation.  Contact:  City of Ukiah, Attn: Efficiency Services, PO Box 421, Clackamas, OR 97015; 503-658-4239; http://www.cityofukiah.com/pageserver/?page=utilities_photovoltaic
Application:  http://www.cityofukiah.com/pdf/utilities/Ukiah_PV_Application_SB%201_tax_info.pdf

Loans to Help You Become Energy Independent
The Energy Independence Program (EIP) allows property owners in Palm Desert to borrow money from the city for energy projects at their home or facility, and to repay those loans through increased property taxes. There is no maximum loan amount, but loans over $60K must be approved by the City Manager. Loans greater than $200K must be approved by the City Council.  EIP loans do not require a down payment and the interest rate initially will not exceed 7%, but may increase up to 10% after the first $2.5 million of city appropriations are exhausted. Loans are available to all owners of real improved property, but $1.25 million of the initial funding is reserved for owners of residential property. Loans can be used to fund solar installations and a wide range of efficiency projects in existing buildings, not new construction. Contact:  Energy Independence Program, Palm Desert, Office of Energy Management, 73-710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite 200 A, Palm Desert, CA 92260; 760-837-0287; http://www.cityofpalmdesert.org/Index.aspx?page=484

Incentives for Producers of Renewable Energy
California enacted legislation requiring every electrical corporation to file with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) a standard tariff for renewable energy output produced by a public water or wastewater agency that is a retail customer of an electrical corporation. The California feed-in tariff allows eligible customer-generators to enter into 10-, 15- or 20-year standard contracts with their utilities to sell the electricity produced by small renewable energy systems, up to 1.5 megawatt (MW), at time-differentiated market-based prices. The price paid will be based on the CPUC’s market price referent (MPR) table, shown in CPUC Resolution E-4137. As the feed-in tariff is meant to help the utilities meet California's renewable portfolio standard (RPS), all green attributes associated with the energy, including renewable energy credits (RECs), transfer to the utility with the sale. For more information, contact the one of the program administrators for the utilities:  
• Southern California Edison; 626-302-4945;
http://www.sce.com/EnergyProcurement/WATERandCREST.htm
• Pacific Gas and Electric; 415-973-2847;
http://www.pge.com/b2b/energysupply/wholesaleelectricsuppliersolicitation/standardcontractsforpurchase/  
• San Diego Gas and Electric; 858-654-8270;
http://www.sdge.com/environment/renewableenergy/
Or you can contact:  California Public Utilities Commission, 505 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94102; 415-703-2743 or 415-703-1170; Fax:  415-703-1158; http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/PUC/energy/electric/RenewableEnergy/feedintariffs.htm

Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU) currently purchases Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) to meet the demand for the solar portion of their retail green power program, PaloAltoGreen. This program is a voluntary program through which CPAU customers can support renewable energy development by paying an extra 1.5 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for their electricity needs. CPAU then uses this money to purchase wind and solar power Renewable Energy Credits, or directly install city-owned systems.  In an effort to support solar development within CPAU's service territory, rather than purchasing SRECs from outside sources, the City Council decided to enter into contracts with their commercial and industrial customers for the purchase of the SRECs associated with their solar installations. CPAU currently pays $50/MWh for SRECs and prices are expected to vary between $30/MWh and $150/MWh in the future.  To learn more, contact:  Customer Service, City of Palo Alto Utilities (CPAU), 250 Hamilton Avenue, 3rd Floor, Palo Alto, CA 94301; 650-329-2241; http://www.city.palo-alto.ca.us/depts/utl/news/details.asp?NewsID=468&TargetID=224 and http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civica/filebank/blobdload.asp?BlobID=9933

$$ to Produce Electricity with Biomass Systems
Southern California Edison Company (SCE) offers a production incentive to customers who generate electricity with eligible biomass-energy systems, including landfill gas, municipal solid waste, wood and wood waste, fuel cells, digester gas, and sewer gas. Separate contracts are available to facilities with capacities of less than 1 megawatt (MW), facilities greater than or equal to 1 MW but not greater than 5 MW, and systems greater than 5 MW but not greater than 20 MW. The seller may select a term of 10, 15 or 20 years. The production incentive payment is tied to the Market Price Referent, which increases annually. Participants will receive the rate that is available when their project comes on-line for the duration of their contract period. All renewable-energy credits (RECs) are transferred to SCE.  For more information, contact:  Southern California Edison, 2244 Walnut Grove, Rosemead, CA 91770; 626-302-5358; http://www.sce.com/EnergyProcurement/bsc.htm
Application:  http://www.sce.com/NR/rdonlyres/8A92FD33-9052-414B-89FB-5355EFDB4931/0/BSC_Application_051107.pdf

$500,000 Energy Loans for Agricultural & Food Processing Companies
The California Energy Commission provides financing to the agricultural and food processing industries to purchase proven cost-effective energy efficient and renewable emerging technologies. Loans of up $500,000 are available with a fixed interest rate of 3.2%.  Eligible technologies include:  thermal heat pumps, electrodialysis membrane systems, enterprise energy management systems, heating and cooling topping cycle systems, ultra-low NOx controlled energy efficient burners, solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal systems, utilization of food and animal waste for bio-energy generation. These are the only technologies which can receive funding through this program. Eligible business entities include food and fiber processing, animal feeding and processing, breweries, wineries, creameries, irrigation districts and agricultural production.  Contact: California Energy Commission, Grants and Loans Office, 1516 Ninth Street, MS-1, Sacramento, CA 95814-5512; 916-654-4019; http://www.energy.ca.gov/process/agriculture/loan_solicitation/
Application:  http://www.energy.ca.gov/process/agriculture/loan_solicitation/2007-04_AG_LOAN_PACKAGE.PDF

$3 Million for Schools to Increase Energy Efficiency
The California Energy Commission will provide up to $26 million in loans to schools, hospitals, and local governments for the installation of energy-saving measures or for energy audits and studies. Interest rates are fixed at 3.95% for the term of the loan. The maximum loan amount is $3 million and there is no minimum loan. Loans must be paid back within 15 years from energy costs savings, or in 2 years for energy audits. Common projects include lighting and equipment upgrades and heating systems, but can also include other energy-saving measures and renewable energy systems.  Contact:  Public Programs Office, California Energy Commission, 1516 Ninth Street, MS #42, Sacramento, CA 95814-5512; 916-654-4147; http://www.energy.ca.gov/efficiency/financing/index.html
Application:  http://www.energy.ca.gov/2007publications/CEC-400-2007-010/CEC-400-2007-010.PDF

$25,000 Grants for Efficient Building Design Projects
Alameda P&T offers its commercial customers grants of up to $25,000 for energy efficient building design and equipment in new commercial construction, or other approved unique energy efficient projects.   To learn more, contact:  Alameda Power and Telecom, Energy Management Coordinator, PO Box H, Alameda, CA 94501; 510-748-3947; http://www.alamedapt.com/electricity/com_savings.html

$2,000 for Business Energy Makeovers
Burbank Water and Power (BWP) offers the Business Bucks Grant Program to its small and mid-sized business customers for installation of energy efficient equipment. Burbank businesses with monthly electricity costs falling in the range of about $100 to $3,000 are eligible to participate in this program.  Interested customers must call Richard Heath and Associates (RHA) in order to schedule a comprehensive energy and water survey. Businesses can select recommendations they would like to install and BWP's certified installers will conduct that work at the facility. BWP will pay up to $2,000 for recommended retrofits selected.  Contact:  Richard Heath and Associates; 877-290-2590; http://www.burbankwaterandpower.com/index.php/incentives-for-businesses/bwps-business-bucks-program

FREE Lighting Upgrades up to $2,500 for Your Business
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) offers up to $2,500 in free efficient lighting upgrades through their Small Business Direct Install (SBDI) Program. Small businesses on rate schedule A1 are eligible to participate in the SBDI program and receive energy saving lighting system upgrades for equipment, such as fluorescent lighting and energy efficient exit signs.  A SBDI Program Representative will visit the small business and conduct an on-site lighting assessment to help identify energy saving opportunities. Once the business has agreed to the energy plan, licensed professionals will retrofit the building with new, energy efficient lighting. The old equipment will also be removed and recycled in an environmentally friendly manner.  Contact:  Commercial Resource Center, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, 111 N. Hope St., Room 1063, Los Angeles, CA 90012; 800-499-8840; http://www.ladwp.com/ladwp/cms/ladwp010211.jsp

$100,000 Grants for New Energy Saving Ideas
Riverside Public Utilities (RPU) offers their Energy Efficiency Technology Grant Program to its business customers to fund research, development, and effective use of innovative energy technologies that are unique to that particular business or industry's specific manufacturing techniques or processes. Grant amount is up to 100% of the project cost with a maximum of $100,000 per project with no matching funds or repayment requirements. Proposals must meet one of the following categories to be eligible for consideration:  building end-use efficiency; environmentally preferred advanced generation; renewable generation; energy-related environmental research; strategic energy research; and electric transportation.  In addition, a feasibility study can help determine the effectiveness of the proposed projects, and RPU may provide up to $5,000 per project per calendar year to pay for the study. Contact:  Programs & Services, Riverside Public Utilities, 3460 Orange Street, Riverside, CA 92501; 951-826-5485; http://www.riversideca.gov/utilities/busi-technologygrant.asp

$50,000 to Buy Natural Gas Equipment
San Diego Gas and Electric's On-Bill Financing (OBF) program offers qualified business customers 0% financing from $5,000 to $50,000 for qualifying natural gas equipment. The program is open to all non-residential customers, including governments and owners of multi-family units who do not reside on premises. Participants must have had an active account for past two years, no disconnect notices in past 12 months and no deposit on hand. The funds can be used for a wide variety of efficiency improvement projects, and the monthly loan payments will be added directly to the customer's bill.  Contact:  Energy Information Center, San Diego Gas & Electric, P.O. Box 129831, San Diego, CA 92112-9831; 800-644-6133; http://www.sdge.com/business/esc/promo_obf.shtml
Application:  http://www.sdge.com/business/esc/documents/obf_application.pdf

Low-Interest Energy Saving Loans for Businesses
Sacramento Municipal Utility District offers low-interest loans to help their commercial customers finance energy efficient equipment in their facilities. Presently, SMUD offers financing at a fixed interest rate of 7.5%, but interest rates are subject to change. A loan application fee of $100 will be charged for all loan amounts over $1,000. SMUD will return this fee if they decline the application. Generally, all loan amounts over $2,500 or greater will be secured by a UCC1 Financing Statement fixture filing with the County Recorder. However, large loan amounts may be secured by a Deed of Trust, requiring a $150 filing fee. More information regarding loan application process, loan payment options, or fees can be found on the program website listed below.  Contact:  Commercial Services, Sacramento Municipal Utility District, 6201 S Street, PO Box 15830, Sacramento, CA 95852-1830; 888-742-7683; http://www.smud.org/en/business/Pages/index.aspx

Up to $50,000 for Qualifying Natural Gas Equipment
SoCalGas' On-Bill Financing (OBF) program offers qualified business customers 0% financing from $5,000 to $50,000 for qualifying natural gas equipment. The program is open to all non-residential customers, including governments and owners of multifamily units who do not reside on premises. Participants must have had an active account for past two years, no disconnect notices in past 12 months and no deposit on hand. The funds can be used for a wide variety of efficiency improvement projects, and the monthly loan payments will be added directly to the customer's bill. Contact:  On-Bill Financing Program, Southern California Gas Company, 555 W. Fifth Street, GT28A4, Los Angeles, CA 90013-1046; 800-427-6584, ext. 6; http://www.socalgas.com/business/documents/obfFactSheet.pdf

FREE Upgrades to Business Lighting & A/C Systems
Alameda Power and Telecom offers rebates for its commercial customers to install energy efficient lighting and air conditioning systems. To qualify, you must first fill out the application forms available on their website, and schedule a pre-installation inspection. Alameda Power and Telecom will then award the rebate once they receive the proofs of purchase and conduct a post-installation inspection. The incentives vary according to the type and efficiency of the equipment installed, and the type and efficiency of the equipment being replaced.  To learn more, contact:  Alameda Power and Telecom, Energy Management Coordinator, PO Box H, Alameda, CA 94501; 510-748-3947; http://www.alamedapt.com/electricity/com_rebates.html

Up to $75,000 in Business Efficiency Incentives
Anaheim Public Utilities (APU) offers several Business Efficiency Incentives Programs to commercial facilities interested in energy efficiency. Eligible businesses undergo a feasibility study that includes a demand and energy-impact assessment and examines any potential energy-efficient upgrades as well as a cost analysis. Note that APU will cover the cost of feasibility studies up to a maximum of $10,000 per project.  Rebates for air conditioners, motors, heat pumps and lighting vary according to system type, size, and efficiency rating. For more details, contact:  Anaheim Public Utilities, Anaheim City Hall, 200 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92805; 714-765-4259 or 888-459-4205; http://www.anaheim.net/article.asp?id=990

$6,000 for Dry Cleaners to Go Green
Anaheim Public Utilities (APU) offers the Green Cleaners Incentives Program, whereby dry cleaner businesses may receive up to $6,000 for upgrading to energy-efficient, environmentally friendly equipment. To be eligible, equipment must save energy and eliminate the use of the dry cleaning solvent perchloroethylene, which is being phased out by the South Coast Air Quality Management District. Qualifying businesses can receive $2,000 per unit for up to three units of equipment purchased and installed in a calendar year. Replacement equipment must not be removed from Anaheim for three years after receipt of incentive. Contact:  Anaheim Public Utilities, Anaheim City Hall, 200 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92805; 714-765-4259 or 888-459-4205; http://www.anaheim.net/utilities/adv_svc_prog/greenercleanerspage1_2.pdf

$75,000 to Help Pay for Cleaner Energy Equipment
Anaheim Public Utilities (APU) offers commercial, industrial and institutional customers the New Construction Incentives Program to offset installation and upgrade costs of energy efficient equipment. APU representatives assist in planning an energy efficient facility to meet or exceed California Title 24 standards and reduce future operating costs.  Interested customers must contact APU to set up initial consultation. Working with a design team and builder, APU will contribute up to $10,000 for design assistance. Total rebates can be up to $25,000 per measure and $75,000 per facility. Contact:  Anaheim Public Utilities, Anaheim City Hall, 200 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92805; 714-765-4259 or 888-459-4205;  http://www.anaheim.net/utilities/adv_svc_prog/new_con/index.pdf

FREE Energy Management Assistance for Businesses
Anaheim Public Utilities (APU) provides an energy efficiency incentive to its small business customers, generally defined as privately owned and having a monthly peak demand of less than 100 kW. Upon request, Anaheim Public Utilities will conduct a free on-site energy use survey and recommend energy efficient measures and technologies to reduce the energy consumption. APU will assist in replacing old equipment with energy efficient equipment.  The maximum incentives are generally: T8 fluorescent lights, electronic ballasts and controls: $5,000 and programmable thermostats: $800.  Contact:
Anaheim Public Utilities, Anaheim City Hall, 200 S. Anaheim Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92805; 714-765-4259 or 888-459-4205; http://www.anaheim.net/utilities/adv_svc_prog/small_bus_assist/intro.pdf

Solar Energy Incentives in California
Azusa Light & Water provides rebates to their customers who install photovoltaic (PV) systems through their Solar Partnership Program. The rebate amount is determined by the ownership of the Renewable Energy Credits (REC) associated with the system. If the customer elects to retain ownership of the RECs, they will receive the lower rebate amount of $2.80 per watt. The higher rebate amount of $4.00 per watt is available to customers who give the RECs to Azusa Light & Water.  For more information, contact: Azusa Light & Water, PO Box 9500, Azusa, CA 91702; 626-812-5154 or 626-812-5125; http://www.ci.azusa.ca.us/index.asp?nid=565

$100,000 + Free Shade Trees to Help the Environment
Burbank Water and Power offers a rebate to its business customers for installing energy efficient equipment in their facilities. The rebate is offered for a variety of energy efficient measures and technologies, and customers should call to be sure their specific project would qualify. Complete rebate applications must be submitted within four months after the project completion date.  The annual customer rebate total may not exceed $100,000. In addition to this and other business efficiency programs, Burbank Water and Power also offers its business customers up to 20 free shade trees to increase the facility's cooling efficiency.  Contact:  Burbank Water and Power, 164 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502; 818-238-3638; http://www.burbankwaterandpower.com/index.php/incentives-for-businesses/energy-solutions-business-rebate-programs

Business Get Help Buying Energy Saving Lights
City of Lompoc Utilities offers rebates to its commercial customers for upgrading their facilities with energy efficient lights. The City will rebate $15.00 per ballast to a small user and $10.00 to a large user to replace incandescent or old electromagnetic/T12 fixtures with electronic ballasts operating T-8 lamps. Contact CLU for more information, and for the full details of the exit sign incentive.  To learn more, contact:  City of Lompoc Utilities, Customer Service, 100 Civic Center Plaza, Lompoc, CA 93438; 805-736-1261; http://www.cityoflompoc.com/splash/utilprograms.htm

$50,000 to Install a Solar Energy System
City of Lompoc Utilities provides rebates to its electric customers who install photovoltaic (PV) systems. To qualify for the rebate the system must meet all the criteria as defined by the Lompoc City Electric interconnection agreement for self-generating electric systems and the requirements set forth by the California Energy Commission.  The incentive amount is $3.50 per watt AC or 50% of the project cost up to $50,000.  To learn more, contact:  City of Lompoc, Customer Service, 100 Civic Center Plaza, Lompoc, CA 93438; 805-875-8298; http://www.cityoflompoc.com/departments/utilities/conservation.htm or http://www.cityoflompoc.com/departments/utilities/solar_pv_info.pdf

$100,000 to Replace Your Business’s Equipment
City of Palo Alto Utilities, through the Commercial Advantage Program, offers several incentives for their commercial customers to replace old equipment with new, more efficient equipment. Rebates are available for:  lighting; boilers and water heating equipment; HVAC equipment; chillers and heat rejection equipment; food service equipment; refrigeration equipment; custom rebates; and appliances and general equipment.  The rebate is capped at $100,000 per fiscal year, and applies to replacement equipment only. Applications must be approved before the replacement equipment is purchased, and the equipment must be installed within 6 months of the application approval. Contact:  City of Palo Alto Utilities, Utility Marketing Services, PO Box 10250, Palo Alto, CA 94303; 650-329-2241; http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/depts/utl/news/details.asp?NewsID=471&TargetID=223
Application:  http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civica/filebank/blobdload.asp?BlobID=8056

$100,000 for Bigger Businesses to Improve Energy Efficiency
Glendale Water and Power (GWP) offers an incentive to its medium and large business customers to encourage energy efficiency through their Business Energy Solutions Program. The incentive amount is based on the projected cost of the efficiency improvement and the amount of energy saved through the measure. The incentive is capped at $0.10/square foot for energy audits, 25% of paid labor and materials costs for approved retrofit projects, or 100% of the incremental costs to bring a remodeling and/or new construction project above the minimum Title 24 energy standard. There is also a maximum limit of $100,000 in incentives to one customer per fiscal year.  Contact GWP's Business Account Representatives early in the process to ensure eligibility and the availability of funding. Contact:  Glendale Water and Power, Customer Service, 141 North Glendale Ave., Glendale, CA 91206; 818-548-2746 or 818-548-2747; Fax:  818-240-6492; http://www.glendalewaterandpower.com/save_money/large_business/incentives_program.aspx?section=Business_Resources

$$ to Replace Inefficient Air Conditioners
Glendale Water and Power (GWP) offers the Peak Hogs Cash Incentive program for small business owners and small business property owners as well as landlords and building owners of multi-family residential rental units to replace inefficient air conditioning units with new ENERGY STAR® qualified.  All air conditioning units to be replaced must be in working condition. Window air conditioning units do not qualify. The actual rebate amount is determined by the level of efficiency and can equal up to 50% of the installed cost.  Building owners must contact GWP to schedule a pre-retrofit inspection. Contact:  Glendale Water and Power, Peak Hogs Program, 141 N. Glendale Ave., Glendale, CA 91206; 818-548-3300; http://www.glendalewaterandpower.com/save_money/peak_hogs.aspx?section=Business_Resources&type=business_small

$1,250 for Small Business to Become Energy Efficient
Glendale Water and Power offers incentives to its small business customers (monthly electric bill is less than $3,000) to encourage energy efficiency through their Smart Business Energy Saving Upgrade Program. This program begins with a free survey of the customer's energy usage, and a free customized Energy Savings Report, which lists the energy saving opportunities specific to the customer's facility. The customer can choose from the list of potential improvements, and GWP will install those measures for free, up to $1,250. These improvements include:  new energy efficient lighting; window tinting; AC tune-ups; ENERGY STAR® thermostat; motion sensors or refrigerator gaskets. Interested customers must contact GWP to schedule an appointment.  Contact:  Glendale Water and Power, Smart Business Energy Saving Upgrade Program, 141 N. Glendale Ave., Glendale, CA 91206; 800-263-9313; http://www.glendalewaterandpower.com/save_money/small_business/energy_saving_survey.aspx?section=Business_Resources

FREE Money to Improve Irrigation Pumps
Designed for irrigation, golf course and municipal water pumping needs, the Agricultural Energy Efficiency Program (AEEP) promotes state-of-the art methods for improving irrigation pump efficiency. For customers who take advantage of the program, IID Energy will provide information and tools necessary to get the maximum operational efficiency from the water pumping system.  Trained technicians will determine the potential cost-savings opportunities through an equipment analysis. Once the recommended retrofits have been completed, IID Energy will help offset costs with a rebate based on anticipated energy savings.   To be eligible, pumps must be 10 HP or more.  Contact:  Imperial Irrigation District, RRP Processing Center, PO Box 937, Imperial, CA 92251-0937; 760-339-9032 or 760-391-5951; http://www.iid.com/Energy/BusinessEfficiency

Energy Rebates for Business Improvements
Imperial Irrigation District Energy offers incentives to its commercial customers to encourage energy efficiency. Qualifying equipment must retrofit, replace, or upgrade old equipment with new, energy-efficient technologies that meet and exceed the current Title 24 standards. Rebates are paid by check directly to the customer or to a third-party payee designated by the customer. The amount of the rebate depends upon the equipment installed.  IID also offers an A/C system check through their CheckMe! Program. To participate, call the nearest Certified Air Conditioning Contractor partnering with IID:  http://www.proctoreng.com/checkme/Find.html.  Contact:  Imperial Irrigation District, RRP Processing Center, PO Box 937, Imperial, CA 92251-0937; 760-339-9032 or 760-391-5951; http://www.iid.com/Energy/BusinessEfficiency

Energy Incentives for New Constructions
IID’s New Construction Energy Efficiency Program (NCEEP) is a non-residential new construction and renovation energy efficiency program that combines an integrated design process with financial incentives. NCEEP is geared toward assisting customers in moving beyond initial cost considerations and towards the realization of long term energy cost savings as well as avoiding lost opportunities as new non-residential buildings are designed and constructed.  For more information, contact:  Imperial Irrigation District, RRP Processing Center, PO Box 937, Imperial, CA 92251-0937; 760-339-9032 or 760-391-5951; http://www.iid.com/Energy/BusinessEfficiency

Free Money to Install Energy Saving Equipment or Systems
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power offers incentives for the installation of energy saving measures, equipment or systems that exceed Title 24 or minimum industry standards. Incentives are based on estimation software that determines the energy savings for each project. Some eligible projects include lighting and a/c upgrades and more.  Prior to beginning the project, customers should submit an application along with the applicable CPP efficiency measure input form. LADWP will calculate the energy savings based on the Energy Efficiency Measures listed in the application. Upon successful completion of the final post-inspection, LADWP will process the incentive payment.  Contact:  Non-Residential Rebate Programs, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, 111 N. Hope St., Room 1063, Los Angeles, CA 90012; 818-342-5397; http://www.ladwp.com/ladwp/cms/ladwp008836.jsp
Application:  http://www.ladwp.com/ladwp/cms/ladwp008865.pdf

$375,000 per PV System

Lodi Electric Utility offers rebates to its residential, commercial, industrial and municipal customers who install photovoltaic (PV) systems. Rebates for both residential and non-residential PV systems installed in 2008 is $2.80/watt. This incentive amount will decrease 7% each year after 2008. The maximum rebate is $375,000 per system, with a maximum payment of $75,000 per customer per year until the entire rebate commitment is paid.  Contact:  Lodi Electric Utility, Customer Programs, 1331 South Ham Lane, Lodi, CA 95242; 209-333-6815; http://www.lodielectric.com/commercial/rebateoffer.php?id=8
Application:  http://www.lodielectric.com/commercial/Solar_Rebate_Pilot.pdf

$50,000 Cash Rebates to Buy Energy Saving Products
Modesto Irrigation District’s Commercial Power Saver Rebate Program offers commercial, industrial and agricultural customers cash rebates for the purchase and installation of qualifying energy efficient products. Some of the incentives include:  sunscreens or window film; lighting; occupancy sensors; central A/C; heat pumps; and split or packaged unitary systems.  Rebates are for purchases made on or after November 1, 2007, and do not apply to new construction, additions to existing facilities, or reconstruction of existing facilities.  There is an annual rebate cap of up to $50,000.  For more details, contact:  Modesto Irrigation District, Energy Management Department, PO Box 4060, Modesto, CA 95352-4060; 209-526-7339; http://www.mid.org/rebates/business/default.htm

Over $10,000 for Businesses Energy Upgrades
The Custom Power Saver Rebate Program is available to larger commercial, industrial or agricultural customers that receive electric service from MID. Accounts billed on GS-1, FL or SL rate schedules are not eligible for this program. For projects that qualify for a rebate of $10,000 or more the savings estimate must be reviewed and stamped by a State of California licensed engineer. There is also a minimum rebate amount of $250. The rebate does not apply to new construction.  Almost any project that involves the replacement of existing equipment with high efficiency equipment may be eligible for the rebate.  To learn more, contact:  Modesto Irrigation District, Energy Management Department, PO Box 4060, Modesto, CA 95352-4060; 209-526-7339; http://www.mid.org/rebates/business/default.htm

Upgrade Your Irrigation System
Pacific Power, through the FinAnswer® Express and Energy FinAnswer® programs, offers incentives for agricultural irrigation customers to help upgrade their system and receive cash incentives. The Energy FinAnswer program provides no-cost pump testing, irrigation system analysis and custom incentives of $0.12 per kilowatt-hour annual energy savings plus $50 per kilowatt average monthly demand savings. In addition, eligible customers can receive cash incentives when replacing worn nozzles or upgrade to premium efficiency motors. The incentive amount is based on the equipment purchased and installed.  To learn more, contact:  Pacific Power, Energy FinAnswer, 6301 Bearden Lane, Modesto, CA 95357; 800-222-4335; Fax:  209-527-2921; http://www.pacificpower.net/Article/Article54795.html

Free Money to Improve Your Business’s Energy Usage
The Standard Energy Efficiency Rebate Program covers a variety of specified improvements, including:  agricultural improvements; appliances and general improvements; boilers and water heaters; business computing; food service improvements; heating, ventilation and a/c improvements; lighting; and refrigeration.   This program is offered to businesses and non-residential customers to increase their energy efficiency.  Proof of purchase must be received by PG&E within 90 days of purchase to receive the rebate.  Contact:  Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Business Center, P.O. Box 7265, San Francisco, CA 94120; 800-468-4743; http://www.pge.com/mybusiness/energysavingsrebates/rebatesincentives/ref/
Application:  http://www.pge.com/includes/docs/pdfs/mybusiness/energysavingsrebates/rebatesincentives/eefficiency/Final_EE_Rebate_Application.pdf

Get $$ to Make Your Vending Machine More Efficient
The Non Residential Retrofit (NRR) Program is a calculated incentive program that provides incentives for retrofit improvements that are not covered under the standard rebate program. For example, a vending machine controller could be covered under funding for this program. After a project proposal is reviewed and approved by PG&E, funding is appropriated in order for the project to be implemented.   To learn more, contact:  Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Business Center, P.O. Box 7265, San Francisco, CA 94120; 800-468-4743; http://www.pge.com/mybusiness/energysavingsrebates/rebatesincentives/ief/
Application:  http://www.spc-nrrdr.com/download/2008SPCDocs/PGE/2008%20PG&E%20app%20forms.xls

$150,000 for Green Building Projects
The New Construction Cash Incentives and Design Incentives Program offers rebates for technical assistance and design when building energy efficient facilities. A design team can receive up to $50,000 for energy efficient design, while an owner can receive up to $150,000 per facility.  To learn more, contact:  Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Business Center, P.O. Box 7265, San Francisco, CA 94120; 800-468-4743; http://www.pge.com/mybusiness/energysavingsrebates/rebatesincentives/inc/

Small Business Rebates for Helping the Environment
The Energy Management Solutions for Small Business Program offers rebates and incentives for energy-efficient technologies, whether the business is replacing existing equipment with new energy-efficient technologies or purchasing new. Additionally, cash incentives and design assistance are available for new buildings and system processes.  Examples of popular technologies available include:  agricultural products; appliances and general improvements; boilers and water heaters; business computing; food service; lighting and more.  To learn more, contact:  Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Business Center, P.O. Box 7265, San Francisco, CA 94120; 800-468-4743; http://www.pge.com/mybusiness/energysavingsrebates/incentivesbyindustry/smallbusiness/energymanagement/
 

Green Incentives for Home Builders
Pacific Gas and Electric provides rebates to homebuilders who construct energy efficient homes. There are three separate programs, each with their own requirements and incentive structure that builders can choose from:
• The ENERGY STAR Performance Method:  Builders of single-family homes can qualify for this incentive by constructing homes which meet energy requirements. Homes are eligible for a rebate of $400 if they are built in Coastal Climate Zones 1-7, or $500 if they are built in Inland Climate Zones 8-16 
• The New Solar Homes Partnership Performance Method:  Provides incentives for home builders to construct new homes with photovoltaics built in.
• The Prescriptive Method:  Builders not participating in either of the above methods can receive rebates for upgrading one or more specific prescriptive features in homes within their developments. An incentive will be paid for each qualifying feature that is not used to meet the 2005 Title 24 baseline.
To find out more about each of these incentives, see the website below or contact:  PG&E Integrated Processing Center, Residential New Construction, P.O. Box 7265, San Francisco, CA 94120-7265; 800-342-7737; http://www.pge.com/mybusiness/energysavingsrebates/incentivesbyindustry/newconstruction/

$50,000 Combined Incentives for Energy Saving Improvements

Riverside Public Utilities (RPU) offers a wide variety of rebates to its commercial customers who wish to increase the efficiency of their facilities. Rebates are provided for HVAC equipment; lighting; motors; and ENERGY STAR® rated appliances.  RPU also offers free pickup and recycling for old, inefficient refrigerators. The maximum combined incentive for all rebates is $25,000 per customer account per year, with the rebate being no more than 25% of the equipment cost.  In addition, commercial customers may be eligible to participate in the Energy Management Systems Assistance Program.  This program provides monetary incentives by assisting business electric customers with technology purchases that can provide energy savings and promote energy efficiency. Projects that promote energy efficiency and conservation will be evaluated individually by RPU and may receive up to $25,000 or up to 50% of the owner's cost.  Contact:  Programs & Services, Riverside Public Utilities, 3460 Orange Street, Riverside, CA 92501; 951-826-5485; http://www.riversideca.gov/utilities/busi-guidelines.asp
Application:  http://www.riversideca.gov/utilities/pdf/ProgAppl.pdf

$150,000 for Developers & Business Owners to Go Green
Riverside Public Utilities' (RPU) Energy Efficiency Construction Incentive is designed to encourage owners/developers to invest in energy efficient designs in new construction, building expansion and many other major retrofit projects. RPU incentives can cover up to 50% of the owner's cost for energy efficiency measures with a cap of $150,000 (whichever is less). Most major retrofits of existing buildings may be included under the program with the same criteria, or will be covered by other RPU programs already in place. RPU will apply all available programs to maximize the benefit to the customer.  Contact:  Information Specialist, Riverside Public Utilities, Programs & Services, 3900 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92522; 951-826-5485; http://www.riversideca.gov/utilities/busi-construction.asp
Application:  http://www.riversideca.gov/utilities/pdf/ProgAppl.pdf

$500,000 to Install a Commercial PV System
The non-residential photovoltaic (PV) rebate program provides financial incentives for Riverside Public Utilities' business customers to install qualifying PV systems on their facilities. The rebate amount is $3.00 per watt AC and cannot exceed 50% of the total system cost. Specific dollar limits for the incentive also apply based on the rate schedule of the applicant. Incentives for customers on the flat rate (E200) are capped at $50,000. The incentive cap for demand customers (E20D) is $200,000, and the cap for large customers (TOU) is $500,000.  Contact:  Information Specialist, Riverside Public Utilities, Programs & Services, 3900 Main Street, Riverside, CA 92522; 951-826-5485; http://www.riversideca.gov/utilities/busi-solar.asp
Application:  http://www.riversideca.gov/utilities/pdf/ProgAppl.pdf

Financial Help for Installing Energy Efficient Equipment
Roseville Electric offers incentives for its commercial customers to increase the efficiency of their existing facilities. Rebates are offered for energy efficient lighting equipment, HVAC system improvements, chillers and custom efficiency improvement projects. All rebate forms include full equipment specifications and program details (see the website below). In some cases, rebates are only available for large commercial customers. In addition to these incentives for existing facilities, Roseville Electric also offers rebates for new construction projects which incorporate efficient lighting systems, building envelope, mechanical systems or meet whole building design standards.  To learn more, contact:  Energy Efficiency Programs, Roseville Electric, 2090 Hilltop Circle, Roseville, CA 95747; 916-797-6937; Fax:  916-774-5583; http://www.roseville.ca.us/electric/business_customers/business_rebates/default.asp

Up to $45,000 for New Green Construction Projects
Roseville Electric offers incentives for their commercial customers to consider energy efficiency when designing and building new facilities. Customers can choose from any combination of rebates offered for lighting equipment, building envelope efficiency, mechanical systems and whole building design. Incentive rates vary in relation to the timing of fund reservation requests. Maximum owner incentives are $22,500 to $45,000.  Rebates are also offered to designers assisting participating businesses. Designers are eligible to earn $100/kW reduced through their design, up to a maximum incentive of $15,000. Contact:  Roseville Electric, 2090 Hilltop Circle, Roseville, CA 95747; 916-746-1667; Fax:  916-774-5583; http://www.roseville.ca.us/electric/new_construction/commercial.asp

Think Green & Get $150,000 for Your Project
Savings by Design offers services and incentives to help owners and designers of commercial buildings raise energy performance. Qualified non-residential new construction and renovation projects in the service area of one of the five participating utilities are eligible to participate. The five participating utilities are Sacramento Municipal Utility District, Pacific Gas and Electric, San Diego Gas and Electric, Southern California Edison, and Southern California Gas Company. Savings by Design has two basic approaches through which to participate: the Whole Building Approach and the Systems Approach. Through the Whole Buildings Approach owners may be eligible for incentives of up to $150,000 and design teams may receive up to $50,000. The Systems Approach evaluates individual efficiency improvements to qualifying systems. Incentives are based on annualized kWh and therm savings. Owners are eligible for incentives up to 50% of the cost of energy efficiency improvements or $150,000, whichever is less. In addition, design assistance is available to owners and design teams. Interested customers must contact the utility early in the design process to determine funding availability and start technical and design assistance.  Contact one of the five participating utilities for more details:  http://www.savingsbydesign.com/

$350,000 for Farmers to Make Their Business Run Efficiently

The Ag Efficiency Plus Program provides rebates to their agricultural customers who install energy efficient equipment in their facilities. Eligible agricultural facilities include dairies, greenhouses, livestock farms, food processing facilities, orchards, crop farms, feedlots, aquaculture facilities, wineries, and warehouses. Prescriptive rebates are available for a wide variety of equipment including lighting, motors, variable speed drives, controllers, ventilation and refrigeration equipment. If a facility uses specialized equipment or operates under a schedule that is not typical of other agricultural producers or processors, the customer can receive custom rebates determined on a per kWh saved basis. Custom measures, however, are capped at 50% of the project cost, while prescriptive rebates can pay 100% of the costs. Total incentives per site may not exceed $350,000. Southern California Edison can also provide free energy audits through this program.  Contact:  AG Efficiency Plus, Southern California Edison, Mt. Diablo Blvd., Suite 200, Lafayette, CA 94549; 800-791-7541; Fax:  925-284-3147; http://www.agefficiencyplus.com/

$2.4 Million for Business Energy Conservation
Southern California Edison (SCE) offers incentives for non-residential customers, regardless of size and energy usage.  Prescriptive rebates for lighting, refrigeration, food service, agricultural equipment and air conditioning technologies are available.  In addition, SCE has a Standard Performance Contracting program in which non-residential users have the option of designing an energy retrofit conservation measure. Incentives are based on the type of measure installed and the kWh saved over a 12-month period. Applicants are eligible to receive up to 50% of the cost for each measure type. The maximum incentive is $2,400,000 annually, per customer site.  SCE also offers demand curtailment programs for non-residential users. Rebates or rate discounts are available to customers who agree to have their energy usage curtailed during peak periods and seasons.   For more details, contact:  Business Programs, Southern California Edison Business Incentives & Services, P.O. Box 800, Rosemead, CA 91770; 800-736-4777; Fax:  629-633-4833; http://www.sce.com/RebatesandSavings/SmallBusiness/

$350,000 for Energy Improvements to Your Business
The Express Efficiency Program gives rebates for retrofit, pre-approved improvements to business, industrial and agricultural customers that have a monthly electrical demand of at least 100 kilowatts or 4,166 therms. Rebates are available for lighting improvements, refrigeration, natural gas technologies, food service or other improvements. A commercial or agricultural customer is limited to $350,000 in Express Efficiency Rebates per year and per energy source.  Contact:  San Diego Gas & Electric, Business Programs, 8335 Century Park Ct., CP12C, San Diego, CA 92123; 800-411-7343; http://www.sdge.com/business/esc/

Rebate Program for California Small Businesses
The Small Business Super Saver Program is a prescriptive efficiency rebate program for small business owners. Rebates for lighting, food service, refrigeration and other technologies are available. Only retrofit projects qualify and business customers must demand less than 100 kilowatts or 4,166 therms per month.   For more information, contact:  San Diego Gas & Electric, Business Programs, 8335 Century Park Ct., CP12C, San Diego, CA 92123; 800-411-7343; http://www.sdge.com/business/esc/

$350,000 for Energy Conservation Improvements
The Standard Performance Contracting Program offers incentives for improvements that exceed government energy standards for business, industrial and agricultural customers, regardless of size. Funding for conservation improvements is up to $350,000 or 50% of the total project costs and the incentives are based on the amount of direct energy saved. Contact:  San Diego Gas & Electric, Business Programs, 8335 Century Park Ct., CP12C, San Diego, CA 92123; 800-411-7343; http://www.sdge.com/business/esc/
 

Incentives for High-Efficiency Improvements to Your Facility
The Energy Savings Bid Program offers non-residential users the opportunity to design a high-efficiency retrofit improvement for their facility and propose an incentive amount from SDGE. Electric projects should save at least 500,000 kilowatts annually, and natural gas projects should save at least 25,000 therms annually. Possible incentive amounts and applications are available by contacting:  San Diego Gas & Electric, Business Programs, 8335 Century Park Ct., CP12C, San Diego, CA 92123; 800-411-7343; http://www.sdge.com/business/esc/

Energy Incentives for Building a New Home
San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) encourages home builders in the San Diego area to construct energy efficient homes through their Residential New Construction Energy Efficiency Incentive Program. There are two ways that builders can participate in this program and there are different incentive structures depending on which option is chosen::
• Performance Program - builders who construct residences which are at least 15% more efficient than Title 24 standards can receive incentives on a per-unit basis up to $500 per unit.
• Individual Measures Program - open to all single-family and low-rise/high-rise multi-family projects. To participate, the buildings must meet the standards of Title 24, and then the builder can pick and choose from a variety of added features and receive incentives based on those specific features. The individual incentives for these measures range from $25 for a verified duct design in a multi-family structure, to $200 for installing a tankless water heater in either a single-family or multi-family building. 
Contact:  Program Coordinator, San Diego Gas & Electric Company, Advanced Home Program, 1919 South State College Boulevard, SC8389, Anaheim, CA 92806; 877-789-9866; http://www.sdge.com/builderservices/

Free Money to Reduce Your Energy Usage
The Sierra Pacific Power Surebet program offers prescriptive and custom incentives for non-residential customer to reduce energy usage. The prescriptive rebate program targets lighting, motors, cooling and refrigeration. Custom rebates are also available for improvements that do not fall under the prescriptive rebate program. An eligible project will involve a capital improvement that reduces overall energy usage or peak hour energy usage and produces savings that are sustainable over at least five years. New facilities may be eligible if the improvement is not related to lighting. Applications and invoices must be filed within 60 days following the installation of energy efficient measures.  The maximum incentive is capped at $100,000, 50% and 25% depending on project qualifications.  Contact:  Sierra Pacific Power, 6226 West Sahara Ave., P.O. Box 98910 (mail stop 329), Las Vegas, NV 89146; 800-342-6335; Fax:  702-367-5452 or Kema, Inc., Surebet Program, 492 Ninth Street, Suite 220, Oakland, CA 94607; 800-342-6335; Fax:  510-891-0430; http://www.californiasurebet.com/ProjectCenter/

$2 Million in Energy Rebates for Businesses
Silicon Valley Power (SVP) offers a variety rebates to its business customers, capped at a maximum total incentive of $2,000,000 per customer per year. Rebates are available for the following:  HVAC systems; chillers; commercial washing machines; food service equipment; lighting; and motors and VFDs.  In addition, Customer Directed Rebates are available for energy efficiency related projects that decrease electrical usage and may not otherwise fit into the other rebate offers. Custom rebates are capped at $500,000 per project. Contact:  Business Rebates, Silicon Valley Power, 1601 Civic Center Drive, Suite 204, Santa Clara, CA 95050; 408-615-5694; Fax:  408-243-0873; http://www.siliconvalleypower.com/bus/?sub=busrebates

$35,000 to Energize Your Business
Sacramento Municipal Utility District offers incentives for its commercial customers to increase the energy efficiency of their facilities. Rebates are available for a wide variety of energy efficient commercial equipment, including:  lighting equipment and controls, HVAC systems and controls, motors, and refrigeration equipment and controls. In general, equipment must exceed Title 24 standards.  The maximum incentive is generally $35,000 per rebate.  Contact:  Commercial Services, Sacramento Municipal Utility District, 6201 S Street, PO Box 15830, Sacramento, CA 95852-1830; 888-742-7683; http://www.smud.org/en/business/Pages/index.aspx

$$ for Businesses to Install Solar PV Systems
SMUD offers cash incentives to commercial, industrial, and non-profit customers who install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. Customers have the option of taking a one-time, up-front payment through the Expected Performance Based Incentive (EPBI) or payments over the course of a 5 or 10 year period through the Performance Based Incentive (PBI).  The current EPBI is $1.90/W-AC for systems up to 1 MW but will be adjusted based on the expected performance of the system. Customers who install systems under the performance-based incentive (PBI) will have their actual energy production measured during the course of the contract period. Options include a 5-year PBI at $0.30/kWh or a 10-year PBI at $0.18/kWh. Systems greater than 1 MW would receive lower incentive rates.   For more information, contact:  Commercial Services, Sacramento Municipal Utility District, 6201 S Street, PO Box 15830, Sacramento, CA 95852-1830; 916-732-6762; http://www.smud.org/en/community-environment/solar/pages/compv.aspx
Application:  http://www.smud.org/en/community-environment/Documents/2661%20fMX.PDF

Rebates for Contractors Going Green
Southern California Gas Company provides incentives to encourage the owners and managers of multi-family residential buildings to increase their energy efficiency. Rebates are available for certain appliances located within apartment dwelling units, and other equipment located in the common areas of apartment and condominium complexes, and common areas of mobile home parks.  Rebate amounts range from $30 up to $1,500.  Contact:  Southern California Gas Company, Multi-Family Rebate Program GT28A4, 555 W. Fifth Street, Los Angeles, CA 90013-1046; 714-634-3052 or 213-244-5256; http://www.socalgas.com/residential/contractors/
Application:  http://www.socalgas.com/residential/documents/application.pdf

$200,000 for Commercial Energy Upgrades
The Express Efficiency Program (EEP) covers the cost of prescriptive improvements, such as the installation of commercial grade clothes washers, boilers, water heaters, steam trap replacement and other energy efficient measures.  Incentives are capped at $200,000/year; $50,000 for greenhouse curtains.  Contact:  Southern California Gas Company, Business Programs, Box 513249 ML 28H2, Los Angeles, CA 90051; 800-508-2348 or 800-427-2200; http://www.socalgas.com/business/
 

$100,000 for Business Energy Efficiency
The Business Energy Efficiency Program (BEEP) encourages large scale improvements to both commercial equipment and to processes to manufacturing. Applicants can create custom improvements under this program that will save on gas usage or purchase equipment that was not covered under the Express Efficiency Program. Incentive amounts are $0.60 to $0.80/therm saved, or 30% of the cost. A business that purchases energy efficient equipment can be eligible for incentives up to $1,000,000.  Contact:  Southern California Gas Company, Business Programs, Box 513249 ML 28H2, Los Angeles, CA 90051; 800-508-2348 or 800-427-2200; http://www.socalgas.com/business/

$25,000 to Replace Food Service Equipment
The Food Service Equipment Rebate Program (FSERP) covers the replacement of commercial food service equipment, such as steamers, fryers and ovens. Applicants may receive rebates of $125 to $2,000 per unit, up to $25,000.  To learn more, contact:  Southern California Gas Company, Business Programs, Box 513249 ML 28H2, Los Angeles, CA 90051; 800-508-2348 or 800-427-2200; http://www.socalgas.com/business/

Up to $1.0 Million to Improve Your Gas Usage
The Energy Efficiency Grant Program (EEGP) is designed to encourage very large non-residential customers to design innovative retrofit solutions to save gas usage. This program will fund projects that save at least 200,000 therms per year and equipment projects and process improvements are eligible and incentives are based on the lesser of $0.50/therm saved or 50% of project costs. To begin the process, the customer should contact their SoCalGas Account Executive. The applicant will then work with SoCalGas to design implementation and performance measures.  Contact:  Southern California Gas Company, Business Programs, Box 513249 ML 28H2, Los Angeles, CA 90051; 800-508-2348 or 800-427-2200; http://www.socalgas.com/business/
 

$25,000/Year for Gas-Related Energy Upgrades
The Commercial and Industrial Incentive Program (CIIP) provides incentives for new equipment, refurbishing of selected applications or modification of your gas related process when other SoCalGas programs do not cover these changes. This incentive is equal to 30% of equipment cost or $0.80 per therm saved, whichever is less. The maximum incentive available is $25,000 per customer, per eligible account, per year.  Contact:  Southern California Gas Company, Business Programs, Box 513249 ML 28H2, Los Angeles, CA 90051; 800-508-2348 or 800-427-2200; http://www.socalgas.com/business/

$500,000 to Help Your Business Save Energy
The Savings By Design Program (SBD) is an energy efficiency program that provides technical and financial resources to help commercial and industrial customers save energy and money when they design, expand, or change new or existing processes and facilities. Incentives equal $0.60 per therm saved annually, up to $500,000 or 50% of incremental cost, whichever is less.  Contact:  Southern California Gas Company, Business Programs, Box 513249 ML 28H2, Los Angeles, CA 90051; 800-508-2348 or 800-427-2200; http://www.socalgas.com/business/

$25,000 to Replace a Gas Engine or Gas Pump
The Gas Engine Program (GEP) provides funding to replace or rebuild an existing gas engine and pump. The maximum incentive available is $25,000 per eligible customer, per year.  To learn more, contact:  Southern California Gas Company, Business Programs, Box 513249 ML 28H2, Los Angeles, CA 90051; 800-508-2348 or 800-427-2200; http://www.socalgas.com/business/

Home Builder Incentives for Meeting Clean Energy Standards
SoCalGas offers an incentive for home builders to build homes which exceed Title 24 standards. The program is open to all single-family and low-rise/high-rise multi-family new construction projects. Incentives are offered through two avenues:
• The performance based approach, also known as the California Energy Star New Homes Program, offers incentives ranging between $150 and $400 per dwelling, depending on the type of dwelling and the climate zone in which it is constructed. 
• The measure based approach provides incentives for individual measures which increase the energy efficiency of a home including HVAC system design, proper duct design and installation, quality installation of insulation, and installation of high efficiency tankless water heaters. Incentives range between $25 and $200 per measure.
For more information, contact:  Advanced Home Program, Southern California Gas Company, 1919 South State College Boulevard, SC8389, Anaheim, CA 92806; 866-563-2637; http://www.socalgas.com/construction/ahp/

PG&E is now offering the SmartAC program. This program offers homeowners the opportunity to install a SmartAC thermostat or a SmartAC switch, which will communicate with PG&E and adjust consumption of energy for powering air conditioners during a state or local energy supply shortage. During energy emergencies, the SmartAC thermostat will control the air conditioner to switch between 15 minutes of cooling air as it regularly does and 15 minutes of just having the fan on to circulate the cooled air.  Cost of the thermostat unit and installation by a technician was also waived ($300 value). PG&E also offers a $25 rebate for participation. The program is open to homeowners, small businesses and property managers. There is also an “opt-out” for the day option where on a particular day you can call in and opt-out for the day. Nice manual override should the temperature get too uncomfortable. To learn more about the SmartAC system, go to:  http://www.pge.com/myhome/saveenergymoney/energysavingprograms/smartac/ or contact a PG&E representative at 866-908-4916; Email:  SmartAC@pge.com