Homeowner Subsidies for Energy Upgrades

To give homeowners an incentive to invest in home energy upgrades, the government is willing to put some money on the table.

To learn about the rebates, homeowners can attend a free workshop in Milpitas at the  on Sept. 21 at 7 p.m. 

Trained contractors are available to give homes an energy "check-up" for leaks and energy-consuming systems. About 80 percent of the costs, or up to $800, can be paid directly by the county. 

A whole-house assessment can take a couple of hours, through a series of tests. Techniques include blower testing, duct testing and more, said a representative of Energy Upgrade California.

The assessment can indicate which areas of a house is losing energy, such as through single-pane windows, doors, walls and more.

Another set of rebates are available to help with home improvements. Through Energy Upgrade California, from $1,500-$4,000 would be available for an advanced upgrade package, where you can pick improvements such as switching to a more efficient furnace, energy-efficient water heater, pool pump or cooling system. 

A more basic package for up to $1,000 in rebates is being offered. It could involve adding insulation and sealing of the ducts, for example.

But time is limited. The rebates for assessment ends when the county funding runs out. And Energy Upgrade California rebates will end sometime in 2012.

The funding comes from stimulus money, U.S Department of Energy Better Buildings Program, Employment Development Department Workforce Investment Act and the California Energy Commission, to name a few.

The collaboration involves federal, state, local government and utilities, such as Pacific Gas and Electric Co., and nonprofits.

For more information, visit energyupgradeca.org.