Statewide Energy Retrofit Rebate programs initiated it’s first “soft launch” in San Diego this week. SDG&E is working with the Center for Sustained Energy who will be managing the program. This launch is targeted towards contractors to provide energy retrofit services. The actual program is scheduled to be available to homeowners the beginning of 2011.
Program requires home energy audits to test insulation, air leakage, & duct testing and more. For the advanced rebates, a before and after will audit is required to measure the energy efficiency improvements.
Home Performance Contractors – Requires BPI Certification as a Building Analyst. Additional training will be required based on contractors skills. BPI training will be offered FREE (3 day) by Center for Sustained Energy .
City of Chula Vista has announced a similar program. San Diego will also launch a similar program. Homeowners will be able to submit for both rebates. Not to mentioned existing rebates currently.
This is a great opportunity for homeowners to maximize existing rebates, improve value, experience energy savings, immediate comfort and sense of comfort improving sustainability for everyone.
The emergence of the Energy Retrofit market will offer homeowners a great opportunity to improve the efficiency of their property. There are pending rebate programs at every governmental level and utility companies. In addition, these programs will stimulate services for realtors, lenders, energy auditors and the ailing construction industry. At the end of the day, the homeowner wins leveraging possibly multiple rebates, energy mortgages while enjoying immediate comfort and reduced energy costs.
Rebates range from $1,000 up to $8,000 for consumers committed to maximizing their energy efficiency. Consumers are expected to save from $200 – $500 a year in energy costs.
Some financing options are still pending. Energy Efficiency Mortgages (EEM) are available today with FHA loans. EEMs extend the loan amount to include energy improvements. The cost of the energy improvements must be offset by the energy savings. EEMs require an energy audit to determine improvements that would yield the best return.
Unlike any other time, homeowners will be highly incented with financing and rebates for energy efficiency improvements. Homeowners will reduce their costs of installation, utilize financing incentives while enjoying immediate comfort and reduced energy bills.
One of the biggest drivers behind many of the rebates is to stimulate the ailing construction industry. These rebates creates thousands of project for San Diego County. Contractors will be required to become certified home performance contractor. At this time, there are still grants available for contractors to offset their costs.
Service providers for the RE industry will benefit from these programs. Helping any client maximize these programs, creates immediate value, savings and comfort. This will also give any service provider an edge improving their value to their clients.
As incentive programs are available now, it will be critical to fully leverage all available programs when you’re ready for home improvements or purchase. For further information, please contact us at (888) 552-4677 or visit our website at www.sdinspection.com.