Green Remodel Forum

Is the furnace included in Energy Upgrade CA rebate or it is only for insulation?

The insulation, furnace and air conditioner are qualified for the rebate for advance upgrade package.

The Energy Upgrade California program offers 2 packages:

1. The Basic Upgrade Package includes seven required measures that together can reduce your energy consumption by an average of 10%. The fixed incentive is $1,000. The measures includes: air sealing, attic insulation, duct sealing, hot water pipe insulation, thermostatic shower control, combustion safety testing, and smoke detector/CO detector.

2. The Advanced Upgrade Package is a customized solution for your home based on an Energy Assessment. Incentives range from $1,250 - $4,000. They include: High efficiency furnace, energy efficient cooling, energy efficient hot water heater, energy efficient window, wall insulation, variable speed pool pump, and cool roof.

Are PV systems (solar panels) included in the Energy Upgrade CA rebate? I could not find that they are included. After all, they generate electricity. It makes sense to include them in the rebate program.

You can get 30% federal tax credit for the solar system. It makes sense to do the other energy upgrades and get the rebates. Check with your local utility company for the rebate programs. Also check with your city or county if they have additional rebate program.

I know of San Francisco offers $7000 and Contra Costa County offers $5000 in addition to the Energy Upgrade Ca rebate.

Alameda offers $1000 for Green Point Rated

I thought California has a huge deficit. Where do they get the money for Energy Upgrade California program?

There are multiple sources for the funding. Some general breakdown can be found from this link:
http://www.energy.ca.gov/releases/2011_ ... ornia.html

With all those rebates, that means we need to spend a lot of upfront money before we can qualify. With the slow economy most of people can not afford it.