Frequently Asked Questions
How do I enroll my property into the program?
Start by filling out the program interest form. From there a Technical Assistant will be in contact with you to talk more about your project, determine if it is a good fit for the program, and discuss next steps.
What is the new $5,000 Heat Pump Water Heater incentive for contractors?
Beginning in 2025 there is a $5,000 incentive for contractors installing heat pump water heaters for property owners in the Multifamily Home Energy Savings (MHES) program. We see this $5,000 incentive as a new tool for small property owners to solicit bids from qualified local heat pump water heater installers. The property owner must be working with a 3C-REN Technical Assistant in the bidding solicitation phase of their water heater upgrade project. Alternatively, if a Tri-County contractor refers a multifamily property owner to the MHES program as part of a heat pump water heater install, the $5,000 incentive would be available to the contractor, if eligibility criteria are met.
- Incentive: A one-time $5,000 flat rebate paid directly to the contractor after completion and inspection.
- Eligible participants: Any contractor who has not yet installed a heat pump water heater through the 3C-REN MHES program and is located in the Tri-County region. Contractor is defined as whoever enters into contract with the owner.
- Eligible projects: Unitary or Central Heat Pump Water Heating Systems serving at least 5 units.
- Eligible timing: The project must not already be under contract.
Are there extra rebates for heat pump projects?
High-performing technologies such as heat pumps earn additional rebates through the Multifamily Home Energy Savings program. For example, listed here are heat pump rebates as per item or per apartment served as well as add-ons for panel and wiring upgrades if needed:
- In-unit Heat Pump Water Heater—$1,500 per item
- In-unit Heat Pump HVAC—$1,500 per item
- In-unit Heat Pump Clothes Dryer—$250 per item
- Central Heat Pump Water Heater—$1,250 per apt. served
- Central Heat Pump HVAC—$1,250 per apt. Served
- In-unit Electrical Upgrades—$500-$2,000 per apartment served
- Common Area Electrical Upgrade—$5,000 per property
There is also a one-time, $5,000 contractor incentive available for contractors installing heat pump water heaters for property owners in the Multifamily Home Energy Savings (MHES) program. See FAQ: What is the new $5,000 Heat Pump Water Heater Incentive for contractors?
What happens during the site assessment?
Your Technical Assistant will conduct a walk-thru site assessment of your property. This will include looking at a sample of apartment units and common areas to get an understanding of the existing conditions and identify opportunities for savings.
What energy efficiency measures are included in the program?
A list of eligible measures can be found on the multifamily upgrade page.
What is the goal of the Home Energy Savings program?
The goal of the Home Energy Savings program is to make comprehensive energy efficiency upgrades easier and more affordable by providing technical assistance and rebates to property owners. The result is lower utility bills, improved tenant comfort and safety, and reduced GHG emissions.
What properties are eligible to participate in the Multifamily Home Energy Savings program?
Properties that meet the following criteria are eligible for energy savings incentives:
- Existing multifamily properties with 5 or more dwelling units
- Located in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, or Ventura Counties
- Receives utility service from PG&E, SCE, or SoCalGas (Central Coast, Community Energy, Clean Power Alliance, and Santa Barbara Community Energy customers are eligible)
If I have already started an energy efficiency project, can I enroll in the program?
Ideally, you’ll want to contact 3C-REN before starting a project. However, if 3C-REN can help identify additional energy efficiency opportunities to include in the scope of your project, you can participate in the program.
Can I sign up more than one building to participate in this program?
Yes, multiple properties can participate. If you have multiple properties you’d like to enroll, please answer yes to the final question on the interest form, “Do you own or manage multiple properties?” and our team will reach out to collect information on additional properties.
What is the maximum incentive I can receive for my project?
The rebate cannot exceed the project cost. Project cost is both labor and equipment costs, and detailed documentation must be provided to the Technical Assistant in the form of receipts of purchase, any contractor invoices or receipts, and any in-house labor hours and rates.
Do I have to use a certain contractor(s)?
There are no restrictions around hiring contractors. The Property Owner or Manager is responsible for getting bids and hiring contractors. Your Technical Assistant can help in this process if assistance is needed.
Are there rebates for rooftop solar PV?
3C-REN cannot offer rebates for solar, only energy efficiency upgrades. However, your Technical Assistant will work to identify other incentive programs your project may qualify for.
