The City of Martinez encourages residents and business owners to explore the possibility of installing renewable energy systems, such as solar power and water heaters, on their properties. Many owners (especially high energy users) see savings from their systems from year one.

Solar Energy Systems include Solar Water Heaters and Solar Panels. Solar water heaters include a collector and a storage tank, and they capture the sun's thermal energy to heat water. Solar Panels convert the sun's rays directly into electricity.

Helpful Resources/Tools

Free Assessments

EnergySage Marketplace helps you determine how much you can save by going solar, provides you with instant quotes from pre-screened solar installers, and offers free advice from qualified solar adviser on the best option for you.

Solar Calculator

Solar Calculators help you determine whether or not solar energy systems are right for you. By simply entering the cost of your electricity bill and financing terms, you will find an estimate on how much you will save over the lifetime of the system.

Financing

Various financing options are available to interested owners:

• Rebates and Incentives for Single-Family Residents
• Rebates and Incentives for Business Owners
• Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE)

Low Income Family Financing

California Solar Initiative, funded by the State, offers two programs for low income families:

• Single-Family Affordable Solar Housing (SASH) Program
• Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH) Program

The two programs provide higher incentives to offset installation costs for income-qualified households.

Residential Solar and EV Discounts

SunShares is a group discount program that allows Bay Area residents to receive group discounts on residential solar and EVs. Registration opens August 2019.

Energy Efficiency Tips

Typical households/businesses can save more than 20% on their electricity bills just by improving the energy efficiencies of their properties. Some of these improvements require little effort or cost. Read on to learn some key energy saving tips, and find a do-it-yourself checklist for your property.

Residents

Some energy efficiency tips for residents:

1. Replace outdated incandescent light bulbs with LED or CFL lighting.
2. Fix leaky faucets and install low flow shower heads.
3. Insulate your hot water piping.
4. Set the furnace to 68 degrees in the winter and 78 degrees in the summer.
5. Choose Energy Star models for your appliances, such as your refrigerators and washers.

Find more energy efficiency tips at PG&E's Energy Savings Tips, and more with the Energy Smart "Do It Yourself" Checklist. You may view the Resources section.

Many programs are available for residents and property owners seeking to complete home improvement projects. You may be eligible for incentives, rebates, and financing options. Find rebate and incentive information for Single-Family Residents or Multi-Family Residents.

Businesses

Some energy efficiency tips for businesses:

1. Makes sure your appliances (especially refrigeration units) are Energy Star models.
2. All lighting, including exit signs, should be energy-efficient CFLs or LEDs.
3. Upgrade your HVAC systems, and conduct annual maintenance.
4. Turn off office equipment during non-operation hours.

Many programs are available for business owners seeking to improve the energy efficiency in their facilities. You may be eligible for incentives, rebates, and financing options. Find rebate and incentive information for Businesses.

You may be eligible for a California Green Business Certification. Please visit GreenBusinessCA.org for more information.

For more energy saving information, visit the Resources section.

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