Energy Efficiency Upgrades and Rebates
Energy Upgrade California
Energy Upgrade California is your one-stop-shop for home efficiency projects that can reduce energy and water use, create a more comfortable home, and may even lower your utility bills. Their website will connect you with participating contractors to help plan and complete your project - and find the rebates and incentives to help pay for it!
Rebates
If you're making home improvements or simply shopping for new appliances, you probably know that energy-efficient products can help lower your energy costs. PG&E offers rebates on hundreds of energy-efficient products.
California Solar Initiative
Thinking about solar? Not only is solar power one of the cleanest forms of energy, but going solar could save you money today and in the future. PG&E has financial incentives for installing solar panels on your home.
Energy Efficiency Help for Moderately Low-Income Residents
San Mateo County Energy Watch provides free weatherization and energy-efficiency retrofits to qualifying moderately low-income households, including:
- Attic insulation
- High-efficiency lighting
- Weather-stripping and caulking
- Low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators
This is a pilot program for 2011 with limited funding. To qualify, recipients must be San Mateo County residents that are PG&E customers with household incomes 200-400% above the federal poverty level. Qualifying residents will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact Ortensia Lopez at El Concilio of San Mateo County for more information: (650) 483-0426.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The California Department of Health and Human Services' Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) program provides financial assistance with energy bills and weatherization for qualified low-income households. For additional assistance paying your energy bills, check this PG&E website.
Track Your Energy Use
Flex Your Power
In a state with as many people (and air conditioners and light bulbs!) as California, taking even small steps to save energy can quickly add up. Flex Your Power has a comprehensive website, an electronic newsletter and blog, and educational materials designed to help you save energy.
SmartMeter
SmartMeters are automated gas and electric meters that have many benefits, including allowing PG&E to access your meter remotely and enabling customers to monitor their energy usage via the Internet. SmartMeters are currently being deployed in the Bay Area.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Carbon Footprint Calculator
Learn how your daily activities contribute to climate change by calculating your carbon footprint - and discover what action you can take to help the environment. There are many online calculators that you can use - type in "carbon footprint calculator" into an Internet search engine or try:
PG&E ClimateSmart
This voluntary program allows customers to reduce their carbon footprint by balancing out their greenhouse gas emissions associated with their electricity and gas usage with environmental conservation and restoration projects.