Federal Programs and Incentives
U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Weatherization Assistance Program
The Weatherization Assistance Program provides assistance to elderly, disabled, and low-income families, who pay a much higher percentage of their incomes for energy than other groups. The program reduces energy costs for low-income households by increasing the energy efficiency of their homes while ensuring their health and safety. The 2008 Weatherization Assistance Program Briefing Book contains more detailed information and background on the federal program.
The California Weatherization Assistance Program is a federally funded program implemented by the the California Department of Community Services and Development. Owners and tenants that are income eligible for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) Program are eligible to receive weatherization assistance from a network of local service providers.
The ENERGY STAR® Program
ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy promoting energy-efficient products and practices. To earn the ENERGY STAR label, a new home must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The California ENERGY STAR New Home Program (PDF file, 1 page) requires that newly constructed homes be at least 15% more energy efficient than the energy code under which they were permitted and be inspected an Energy Commission certified third party Home Energy Rating Systems Rater. Meeting the ENERGY STAR New Homes Program requirements is often one of the methods used by agencies that promote energy efficiency or use of renewable generation, to qualify for rebates or financing. ENERGY STAR also has an Existing Home Program.
Additionally, the Energy Efficient Rehab Advisor describes the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) guidelines for conducting energy efficient housing rehabilitation. HUD recommends following these guidelines when undertaking any type of renovation project in single family and multifamily housing, whether it is privately-owned or public housing. The Advisor's energy efficiency recommendations are based on ENERGY STAR specifications, where applicable.
Tax Incentives in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (as amended)
The Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPACT) offered homeowners, rental property owners, and home builders tax credits for purchasing and installing energy-efficient products. Many of these credits, which had expired, were extended on October 3, 2008, with the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008. Information regarding these residential tax incentives is maintained by the EERE and by the Tax Incentives Assistance Project (TIAP).