California Center for Sustainable Energy

You could say there has never been a better time for home energy efficiency in California. The state is in the process of spending more than $1 billion on it, the bulk of which is going toward incentives for home energy retrofitting. The long term goal by 2020 is to deliver comprehensive home improvements to all 13 million single-family and multifamily residential units in the state, leading to an average reduction in energy use of 40 percent per household.

The focus is on the many different elements within a home that affect energy use, how they interact and influence health and safety. The California Public Utility Commission ( CPUC) has established a two-year Whole House Program with comprehensive energy evaluations and rebates for energy improvements.

The CPUC, in conjunction with the California Energy Commission and other public agencies, is helping Californians learn more about energy programs through two new web portals, Energy Upgrade California and Engage 360, which you can read more about in this newsletter. Both websites offer useful information about energy efficiency, whole house performance, rebates and much more.

CCSE is a key player locally in the whole house programs. Currently we are working with San Diego Gas and Electric to train licensed contractors in the basics of home performance during free, three-day workshops at the Energy Resource Center. There is also an advanced workshop that goes further in-depth about energy efficiency measures and prepares individuals for getting their Building Performance Institute certifications.

We’re also involved in the Department of Energy’s BetterBuildings program in collaboration with several local municipalities in programs that link to state goals through contractor outreach, residential incentives, community-based social marketing and in-store education. We’ll be telling you much more about these activities, and how you can participate, during the next few months.

The push toward energy retrofitting of California’s housing stock can help governments achieve greenhouse gas reduction goals, create more jobs and leverage outside resources through the federal stimulus package and utility incentives. Everyone wins from less energy consumption, reduced dependence on foreign oil and cleaner air.

Continue reading December's newsletter.