Renewable Energy, Energy Storage and Resiliency
2025-10-28 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | CEC’s Environmental Hub, 1219 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101, United States
Register
Enjoy food, drinks, and great company at the last event in our High-Performance Happy Hour Series! Whether you’re a homeowner, architect, or simply curious about electrification, join us to learn how renewable energy and storage are shaping the building decarbonization landscape.
Event Description
As energy codes and interest in electrification come together, the winning combination of renewable energy and energy storage work together to reduce pollution, improve affordability and, importantly, support resiliency in emergencies that may lead to power outages. We’ll review the background and drivers of distributed energy generation and storage and review different approaches to meet a project team’s goals.
Learning Objectives

Understand the drivers for increasing distributed PV’s and battery storage for individual projects and neighborhoods
Differentiate between terms including distributed energy storage, ‘microgrids’, islanding, grid-tied, demand response and behind-the-meter / in-front-of-the-meter
Review key design features of batteries to inform system selection and sizing
Understand factors impacting upfront and long-term system costs, including time of use and options for managing renewable energy and battery use.

Learning Units

1.0 AIA HSW LUs approved for this course
1 hour of ZNCD Continuing Education units for CAB

Instructor
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting

This event is held in partnership with AIA Santa Barbara. Attendance is open to all.

Energy Code Compliance: Using HERS/ECC Measures (Part 2)
2025-10-29 09:30 - 11:00
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Event Description
3rd-party verification through HERS/ECC measures is a great way to improve energy performance and, more to the point, meet the Title 24 Energy code. In this two-part course, we’ll cover what architects and builders need to know to successfully integrate HERS/ECC measures into residential design and construction. Part 2 will address HERS/ECC measures relating to HVAC and indoor air quality.
Learning Objectives

Review key roles and identify integration strategies for HERS measures related to mechanical systems.
Learn HERS/ECC measures related to heat pumps, refrigerant charge, and air handlers and which are the best fit for specific projects
Understand HERS/ECC measures related to domestic hot water (DHW), including compact plumbing and pipe insulation
Discuss ducted systems and options for improving performance and compliance through verification.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA HSW LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Paul Dunn, Central Coast Energy Compliance

3C-REN Contractor Connection Hub at Standard Plumbing
2025-10-30 07:00 - 13:00 | Johnstone Supply, 1250 Graves Ave, Oxnard, CA, 93030, United States
Register
Join 3C-REN on October 30th at Johnstone Supply in Oxnard for an exciting opportunity to connect and grow! The 3C-REN team will be on-site to share workforce development opportunities; exclusive incentives tailored to contractors in the region and provide answers to Energy Code questions.

Discover how you can enhance your skills and grow your business with the support of our programs.
Learn about air leakage and blower door testing with our installation and presentation!
Learn about exclusive incentives available to participating contractors.

Stop by and say hello! We’ll be thrilled to share more details and answer your questions.
Plus, don’t miss out on some fantastic free goodies waiting for you!

Home Improvements for a Healthier, Resilient, and Clean-Energy Future: A One-Page Guide for Homeowners
2025-11-03 16:00 - 17:00
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Event Description
Overview of a new one-page guide for homeowners. With the premise that most home improvement projects have the potential to improve or harm performance, it’s helpful to be informed of basic building science principles. The class will spotlight the benefits many homeowners look to achieve, a recommended order of steps to take, and building details in a range of improvements. Homeowners can meet their goals and enjoy their benefits while reducing emissions.
The guide was created to serve two purposes:

To inform homeowners in the early process of planning improvements to existing homes. To provide a descriptive path to increasing performance while reducing emissions, mindful of the whole-house approach. While not exhaustive, the intent is to raise awareness of the complete A-Z considerations in a short take-away info sheet. Much of the public messaging in recent years has focused on electrification but has left out the foundational principles of high-performance enclosures, which are so essential to optimal outcomes.
In response to a question I’ve often heard expressed, “I’m concerned about climate change but what can I do as an individual?” The guide illustrates ways we can reduce emissions within our households. Our climate actions can start with our own homes!

There are two versions of the guide with the subtitles tailored to each purpose. The one-page, two-sided guide in hard copy will also be accessible online with live links to resources. In addition to homeowners, the guide is useful as an educational tool for contractors, programs and outreach organizations, building departments, and Realtors.
Learning Objectives

Attendees will be equipped with a handy one-page guide designed for homeowners. The guide is also useful to contractors and others as an educational tool to share with their customers.
Attendees will comprehend the myriad benefits to both house and occupants of higher performance homes. We’ll address the topic of increased market value, not often delineated from a professional standpoint.
Attendees will be cognizant of a recommended, science-informed, step-by-step process of implementation that typically makes the most practical and cost-effective sense, while also encouraged to tailor their choices to personal priorities.
Attendees will be aware of the fundamental elements of a highly efficient enclosure, what switching to all-electric mechanical systems looks like, and how to attain low to zero greenhouse gas emissions with solar plus batteries.

Audience

Homeowners
Contractors: The guide is a communication tool to share with their clients
Realtors, programs

Instructor
Debra Little is a home performance and valuation specialist with field experience in both appraising and energy efficiency. Since building her own home in 2007, her work has focused on high efficiency, low emissions, and related health benefits. Debra develops and presents courses for real estate professionals on the technology, valuation, and market representation, of high performance assets and solar (Public utilities, professional associations, conferences). Certifications: CA Certified Appraiser; Building Performance Institute, Building Analyst and Healthy Homes Principles; Build It Green, Green Point Rater; IDECC, Certified Distance Education Instructor.
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Preparing Buildings for Wildfire Resiliency in 2025 and Beyond
2025-11-04 10:00 - 13:00 | Louise Lowry Davis Center, 111 W. Victoria Street, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101, United States
Register
3C-REN invites building professionals and community members to join us for an in-person forum on November 4, 2025, from 10 AM – 1 PM at the Louise Lowry Davis Center in Santa Barbara.
This forum, Preparing Buildings for Wildfire Resiliency in 2025 and Beyond, will host a diverse panel of experts exploring perspectives on recent wildfire rebuilding efforts, strategies to strengthen building wildfire resiliency, and how recently adopted code updates prompted by wildfires such as AB 130 and Executive Order N-29-25 affect the current rebuilding process.
Attendees will have a chance to engage with the speakers and network with fellow attendees while enjoying lunch following the conclusion of the presentations.
All attendees will be entered into a giveaway. At the end of the forum, one lucky attendee will be selected to receive an air purifier so be sure to stay through the end of the program for your chance to win!
After attending this forum, participants will be able to:

Understand upcoming 2025 Energy Code changes related to wildfire-driven code updates including AB 130 and Executive Order N-29-25, and how these influence local rebuilding efforts.
Identify obstacles and opportunities to permitting rebuilds after wildfires
Explain the most effective and cost-efficient home hardening strategies that meet the Energy Code
Gain insights into how wildfire resilient design on homes influence firefighting strategies.
Explore ways to encourage wildfire resilient buildings

After the forum, from 1:30 – 2:30 PM, join us for a special tour of the County of Santa Barbara Emergency Operations Center & Regional Fire Communications Center which is the first building in Santa Barbara to achieve net zero energy status. This state-of-the-art facility not only showcases sustainable design but also serves a vital mission: delivering exceptional medical, fire, and rescue dispatch services for public safety partners across Santa Barbara County. More details to follow after registering for the tour.
Speakers

Mike Horgan, Cairn Collaborative
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Ryan Cullinen, Allen Construction
Chris Olmstead, Santa Barbara County Fire Department

Learning Units
2.0 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.20 ICC CEUs approved for this course

Inflation Reduction Act Part 4: Homeowner and Homebuyer Decarbonization Strategies Utilizing IRA Funds
2025-11-05 11:00 - 13:30
Register
Event Description
IRA funding is coming, bringing huge potential for energy-efficiency upgrades at an affordable cost. By understanding the programs coming, you can help clients maximize their savings – on both their installation costs and utility bills.
Learning Objectives

Use IRA funds to help pay for energy-efficiency improvements
Learn strategies to help sellers utilize IRA funds to get more for their home and sell their home faster
Learn how IRA funds can lower your buyer’s true cost of homeownership, while helping them have a healthier and more comfortable home from day one

Learning Units
1.5 AIA LUs pending for this course
Instructors
Franklin Energy
John Shipman, Franklin Energy
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

2025 Energy Code Update for the Building Industry
2025-11-12 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
The 2025 code cycle takes effect January 1, 2026! This course provides an overview of key changes to Title 24 Part 6 Energy Code, with a focus on architects, builders, building department staff and others in the construction industry. We’ll provide background on the reasons behind the changes and impacts for projects, particularly in the Central Coast region.
Learning Objectives

Identify Big Pictures Goals of the California Energy Commission and how those goals influence requirements for energy performance, indoor air quality and fuel source.
Understand the organizational changes to the 2025 Energy Code.
Recognize key updates including building envelope, lighting, mechanical and DHW systems, renewable energy and storage and field verification.
Review recent housing legislation AB 130 (AB 306) and its impact on the energy code cycle.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA HSW LUs pending for this course
1.5 ICC CEUs pending for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Grant Murphy, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Using Wrightsoft for Residential Load Calculations
2025-11-18 11:00 - 13:00
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Event Description
Software is a powerful and useful tool, but it is not magic, nor does it know if it has been fed accurate information. ACCA Manual J Residential Load Calculation is a detailed and complex procedure with many do’s and don’ts. The various ACCA-approved softwares assist with the math involved, but they cannot produce accurate load calculations if the user does not know the procedures detailed in Manual J. This virtual training will guide participants through the Manual J procedures for a simple house in the MiTek Wrightsoft software. This will be both a beginning learning experience of the Manual J procedures as well as a glimpse into how that procedure is applied within a software program.
Learning Objectives

Participants will experience the creation of a heating and cooling load calculation in the MiTek Wrightsoft Right-Suite Universal software.
Participants will learn that a load calculation is only as accurate as the inputs.
Participants will understand why the survey procedure is so important to producing an accurate load calculation.
Participants will learn what information needs to be obtained about a residence in order to create an accurate load calculation.

Learning Units

2.0 AIA LUs approved for this course
2.0 ICC CEUs approved for this course

Instructor
Judy Rachel, Home Performance Pro
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

HRV and ERV in Existing Multi-Family Buildings
2025-11-19 09:00 - 10:30
Register
Event Description
Whether compelled by changing code or by market demand for better ventilation, providing ventilation in existing multi-family buildings is a challenge. This training explores how balanced ventilation can be added to current buildings for maximum occupant comfort and energy savings. In this training, learners will:

Obtain a basic overview of balanced ventilation, specifically in multi-family applications
Identify design and installation considerations in HRV choice for multi-family buildings
Utilize information from lessons learned in the field regarding HRV choice and installation in multi-family buildings

Instructors
Eric Fenno, Small Planet Supply
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Electrify Smarter: Your Step-by-Step Home Upgrade Plan
2025-11-19 18:30 - 20:00
Register
Event Description
Thinking about upgrading your home but not sure where to start? Join us for an engaging and practical session designed to help Central Coast homeowners plan smarter electrification projects that save money, increase comfort, and avoid costly mistakes.
In this webinar, you’ll learn:

How to chart your personal electrification roadmap—from heating and cooling to water heating, cooking, and EV charging.
Which upgrades to prioritize first, and how to avoid the common pitfalls that derail many projects.
The five most important steps to prepare your home, including panel readiness, ductwork, and insulation improvements.
How to budget, sequence, and bundle projects for maximum efficiency and incentives.
What incentives are available from 3C-REN and additional programs.

You’ll walk away with a clear strategy to transform your home into a more comfortable, efficient, and resilient space—on your timeline and budget.
Instructor
Larry Waters, Electrify My Home
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Heat Pump Water Heater Installation Training at Westlake Village
2025-12-09 07:00 - 08:30 | Cedar Valley Plumbing Supply in Westlake Village, 31240 Cedar Valley Dr, Westlake Village, CA, 91362, United States
Register
Event Description
Heat pump water heaters (HPWH) are becoming the standard in California. This free training will prepare your plumbers to install them correctly to avoid callbacks and achieve their full potential in terms of efficiency, capacity, longevity, and customer satisfaction. We’ll cover how they work, the range of models available on the market, the critical detail of air flow, and research on closet installs and condensation risk. You’ll come out prepared to add heat pump water heaters to your business and avoid some common installation hurdles.
The instructors bring a wealth of experience to this hands-on in-person class. Gary Klein has worked for the California Energy Commission and worked on hot water systems for over 30 years. Nick Brown is an expert on energy efficiency and Title 24 and has two heat pump water heaters operating at his house under continuous monitoring.
Learning Objectives

Acquire practical skills through a hands-on demonstration on installing a HPWH in a closet
Explore the do’s and don’ts of installation based on real-life examples
Understand the importance of air flow for HPWHs
Distinguish how HPWHs are different from typical water heaters

Instructors
Nick Brown, Build Smart Group
Gary Klein, Gary Klein & Associates

Heat Pump Water Heater Installation Training at Ferguson Santa Maria
2025-12-10 07:00 - 08:30 | Ferguson Plumbing Supply Santa Maria, 1209 W Betteravia Rd, Santa Maria, 93455, United States

Heat Pump Water Heater Installation Training at Ferguson San Luis Obispo
2025-12-11 07:00 - 08:30 | Ferguson Plumbing Supply San Luis Obispo, 4546 Broad Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401, United States

Understanding Heat Pump HVAC and Water Heating
2025-12-16 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
This class will cover a basic introduction into the thermodynamics that make heat pumps so efficient. Whether used for space heating or water heating, heat pumps can be up to 300% efficient! How is that even possible? This class will also cover the advantages of heat pumps over gas furnaces as well as some disadvantages. It will cover some important factors that you need to know before selecting a heat pump water heater.
Learning Objectives

Understand how heat pumps use electricity to move heat.
Understand the important concepts related to space heating.
Understand the different kinds of heat pumps for space or water heating
Understand the benefits of heat pumps over gas furnaces
Understand the important factors that affect what heat pump you should choose.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA HSW LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC LUs approved for this course

Instructors
Russ King, Coded Energy
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Renewable Energy, Energy Storage and Resiliency
2026-01-14 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
As energy codes and interest in electrification come together, the winning combination of renewable energy and energy storage work together to reduce pollution, improve affordability and, importantly, support resiliency in emergencies that may lead to power outages. We’ll review the background and drivers of distributed energy generation and storage and review different approaches to meet a project team’s goals.
Event Learning Objectives

Understand the drivers for increasing distributed PV’s and battery storage for individual projects and neighborhoods
Differentiate between terms including distributed energy storage, ‘microgrids’, islanding, grid-tied, demand response and behind-the-meter / in-front-of-the-meter
Review key design features of batteries to inform system selection and sizing
Understand factors impacting upfront and long-term system costs, including time of use and options for managing renewable energy and battery use.

Learning Units

1.0 AIA LUs approved for this course
1.0 ZNCD CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Commercial and Residential Incentives Relaunch Webinar
2026-01-21 07:30 - 08:30
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Event Description
3C-REN residential and commercial incentives are back! Register to learn about program changes for 2026 and how 3C-REN incentives can support upgrades like heat pump HVAC systems, heat pump water heaters, insulation, refrigeration, and more—for projects in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties.
We’ll kick off the webinar at 7:30am with a review of the Commercial program for small to medium businesses and at 8:00am we’ll switch over to the Single-Family program for residential homes. Stay for the full hour to learn about both programs or join the segment that best fits your interest.

7:30 – 8:00 am Commercial Incentive Program Review
8:00 – 8:30 am Single Family Residential Incentive Program Review

Instructors
Reid Leiter, Recurve
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Navigating the Energy Code
2026-01-22 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
If you’re new to the energy code (Title 24 Part 6) and looking for a place to start, or just wanting a refresher, this is the class for you! We’ll break down the scope and goals of the code, how it’s organized, where to find key information for your project and what are some general best practices for successful implementation during design, permitting and construction.
Learning Objectives
• Understand what the Building Energy Efficiency Standards code is and why we have one in California
• Learn how the energy code is organized and where to find the information you need
• Recognize key energy requirements that can inform building design, plan review and construction decisions
• Learn strategies to communicate energy code requirements to promote successful implementation of energy efficiency and indoor air quality standards.
Learning Units

1.50 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course
1.50 CEA CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Unitary versus Split Heat Pump Water Heating Systems
2026-01-29 10:00 - 11:30
Register
Event Description
This course introduces the key differences between unitary and split heat pump water heater systems, with a focus on what they are, what they do, and how they can be used in new or retrofit building applications. Participants will gain a practical understanding of the advantages, challenges, and considerations for selecting the right system in residential and light commercial projects. The session will also cover installation factors, energy efficiency impacts, and maintenance requirements, helping professionals make informed decisions when specifying or recommending heat pump water heating solutions.
Learning Objectives

Describe the fundamental differences between unitary and split heat pump water heater systems.
Identify the advantages and limitations of unitary and split systems in terms of performance, installation requirements, and maintenance.
Evaluate the impact of system type on energy efficiency, climate zone suitability, and customer needs.
Apply best practices for selecting the appropriate system type for specific project scenarios, considering factors such as space constraints, noise levels, and refrigerant management.

Learning Units

1.0 AIA LUs applied for this course

Instructor
Eric Fenno, Small Planet Supply
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

2025 Energy Code in Practice: Single Family Residential
2026-02-04 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
Sorting through tables and reading the fine print in the energy code may get you the specific language of the code, but what does that really mean in practice? In this series, we’ll walk through key components for each building occupancy type, providing sample details, photos of installations and potential pitfalls to avoid. Highlighting 2025 changes throughout, this course is intended for designers, builders and building officials. Bring your questions and join in the discussion.
a. Single Family Residential (SFR) – THIS COURSE!
b. SFR Additions + Alterations
c. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s)
d. Multi-family Residential
e. Non-Residential
Learning Objectives
• Understand the metrics and standards used in the energy code for evaluating energy performance and indoor air quality, and how choices for electric or gas equipment may impact compliance with those standards.
• Within each building type, review key mandatory measures related to energy performance, ventilation, refrigerants and insulation and review potential challenges for integration into design and construction.
• Review the prescriptive “recipe card” approach versus a building performance approach and discuss when to use each strategy to best incorporate energy efficiency and healthy interior environments into the specific project design.
• Recognize where barriers or stumbling blocks may occur within permitting and construction and tips for documentation to smooth out the process, ultimately increasing the energy efficiency, health and safety of our buildings.
Learning Units

1.50 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course
1.50 CEA CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Grant Murphy, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

2025 California Energy Code & Passive House
2026-02-10 13:30 - 15:30
Register

Event Description
This course will provide an overview of how the 2025 California Title 24, Part 6 code addresses Passive House concepts. We will examine the basic principles, methodology, and performance targets of Passive House, focusing on electriﬁcation goals and their relationship to the updated California codes. The class will illustrate the goals, strategies, and results with regional case studies.
Learning Objectives
1. Explain Passive House principles and benefits.
2. Describe relevant California Code updates.
3. Outline strategies for building design and construction to meet Passive House and new code requirements.
4. Describe case studies of homes that achieve all-electric code-compliant Passive House outcomes and the strategies and outcomes.
Learning Units

2.0 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.20 ICC CEUs approved for this course
2.0 CEO CEUs approved for this course

Instructor
Ken Levenson, Passive House Network
Course Location
Zoom link will be provided upon registration

Builder's Perspective: Heat Pump Water Heaters
2026-02-18 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
Heat Pump Water Heaters (HPWH’s) are favored by the energy code, and increasingly by building owners, for their energy efficiency, cost effectiveness and contribution to better indoor air quality, but implementation in the field may not be so clear cut. We’ll hear the builder’s perspective on tips for HPWH design, selection and installation, including best practices and pitfalls to avoid, whether new construction, renovation or replacement.
Learning Objectives

Learn what factors to consider when locating a HPWH and how equipment selection and installation will vary based on location
Discuss specifications and maintenance of a HPWH for efficient operations and to meet client expectations
Learn Energy Code mandatory measures for installation as well as best practices for meeting those requirements
Review special considerations for replacing an existing gas water heater with a HPWH

Learning Units

1.0 AIA HSW LU approved for this course
1 ZNCD CEU approved for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Mike Horgan, Cairn Collaborative Design-Build
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

2025 Energy Code in Practice: Single Family Additions and Alterations
2026-03-10 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
Sorting through tables and reading the fine print in the energy code may get you the specific language of the code, but what does that really mean in practice? In this series, we’ll walk through key components for each building occupancy type, providing sample details, photos of installations and potential pitfalls to avoid. Highlighting 2025 changes throughout, this course is intended for designers, builders and building officials. Bring your questions and join in the discussion.
a. Single Family Residential (SFR)
b. SFR Additions + Alterations – THIS COURSE!
c. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s)
d. Multi-family Residential
e. Non-Residential
Learning Objectives

Understand the metrics and standards used in the energy code for evaluating energy performance and indoor air quality, and how choices for electric or gas equipment may impact compliance with those standards.
Within each building type, review key mandatory measures related to energy performance, ventilation, refrigerants and insulation and review potential challenges for integration into design and construction.
Review the prescriptive “recipe card” approach versus a building performance approach and discuss when to use each strategy to best incorporate energy efficiency and healthy interior environments into the specific project design.
Recognize where barriers or stumbling blocks may occur within permitting and construction and tips for documentation to smooth out the process, ultimately increasing the energy efficiency, health and safety of our buildings.

Learning Units

1.50 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course
1.50 CEA CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Grant Murphy, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Ask the Experts: Load Calculations
2026-03-12 12:00 - 13:00
Register
Event Description
This is an office-hours style open discussion about heating and cooling load calculations.
Bring your questions about load calculations procedures, specific and general. Ask about data collection for a load calculation, choosing design conditions, how a load calculation can help you make recommendations for creating a lower load home, whatever is on your mind regarding heating and cooling load calculations.
Our expert won’t leave you out in the cold or put you in the hot seat. The goal is always to provide a comfortable, safe environment.

Instructor
Judy Rachel, Home Performance Pro
Judy Rachel specializes in single family home audits and HVAC system designs, guiding homeowners through performance and energy efficiency home retrofits.
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

SBCA Builders & Brews Presents: Contractor Power Hour with Electrify My Home
2026-03-20 16:00 - 18:00 | Shalhoobs Funk Zone Patio, 220 Gray Avenue, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101, United States
Register
The Santa Barbara Contractors Association, in partnership with 3C-REN, Electrify My Home, Ferguson, and Santa Barbara Clean Energy, invites you to an engaging evening designed specifically for building professionals who want to stay ahead of the curve.
What to Expect
Contractor Power Hour is a relaxed, happy-hour style gathering where education meets networking. Enjoy great food, drinks, and conversation while getting up to speed on the fast-moving shift toward electrification.
Heat pump water heaters and HVAC systems are no longer “on the horizon”—they’re here now. As codes and market demand continue moving away from gas equipment, understanding installation, design, and incentives is becoming essential knowledge for today’s contractors.
Featured Insight
Industry veteran Larry Waters will share real-world expertise drawn from decades in HVAC and his experience as one of California’s recognized leaders in home electrification. Expect practical takeaways, candid discussion, and a few laughs along the way.
Why Attend?
– Stay current on emerging electrification technologies
– Learn what’s changing—and how it affects your projects
– See the latest products onsite
– Discover available incentives that can benefit your clients
– Connect with fellow contractors and share best practices
– Experience SBCA’s signature Builders & Brews atmosphere
Instructors
Larry Waters, Electrify My Home
Event Location
Shalhoob’s Funk Zone Patio
220 Gray Ave, Santa Barbara
In Partnership With:

2025 Energy Code in Practice: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
2026-04-08 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
Sorting through tables and reading the fine print in the energy code may get you the specific language of the code, but what does that really mean in practice? In this series, we’ll walk through key components for each building occupancy type, providing sample details, photos of installations and potential pitfalls to avoid. Highlighting 2025 changes throughout, this course is intended for designers, builders and building officials. Bring your questions and join in the discussion.
a. Single Family Residential (SFR)
b. SFR Additions + Alterations
c. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s) – THIS COURSE!
d. Multi-family Residential
e. Non-Residential
Learning Objectives

Understand the metrics and standards used in the energy code for evaluating energy performance and indoor air quality, and how choices for electric or gas equipment may impact compliance with those standards.
Within each building type, review key mandatory measures related to energy performance, ventilation, refrigerants and insulation and review potential challenges for integration into design and construction.
Review the prescriptive “recipe card” approach versus a building performance approach and discuss when to use each strategy to best incorporate energy efficiency and healthy interior environments into the specific project design.
Recognize where barriers or stumbling blocks may occur within permitting and construction and tips for documentation to smooth out the process, ultimately increasing the energy efficiency, health and safety of our buildings.

Learning Units

1.5 AIA LUs approved for this course
0.15 ICC CEUs approved for this course
1.50 CEA CEUs approved for this course

Instructors
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Grant Murphy, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Intro to Heat Pump Technology
2026-04-13 12:00 - 13:00
Register
Event Description
It’s Heat Pump Week! Let’s kick-off the week with an introduction to heat pumps for heating, cooling and generating hot water for our homes and businesses. We’ll cover the basics of how heat pumps work, which system to select depending on occupancy and climate zone, and tips for design and installation to make sure the units will work properly.
Learning Objectives

Learn the basics of heat pump operation, pitfalls from years past and the benefits of current technology for HVAC and domestic hot water demand
Understand options for ducted and ductless heat pumps for thermal comfort
Discuss integrated and split-system Heat Pump Water Heaters, as well as combination systems
Learn important considerations for design and installation such as dimensions, locations, venting and condensate line

Learning Units

1 AIA HSW LU
1.0 CAB ZNCD CEU

Instructor
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Ask the Experts: No More Heat Pump Headaches!
2026-04-14 08:00 - 09:00
Register
Event Description
Bring your toughest “no” and your real-world roadblocks to this interactive session about any and all electrification projects. Your questions from the field, your trickiest case studies, and your difficult client scenarios will take the center stage during this engaging session. Whether you’re stuck on a brain-bending system design or struggling to get through to a skeptical customer, this is your chance to get direct feedback and tried-and-true strategies from one of the best electrification contractors in the state, Larry Waters of Electrify My Home.
Instructor
Larry Waters, Electrify My Home
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Energy Performance and Fire-Resistant Construction
2026-04-16 09:30 - 11:00
Register
Event Description
With increasing fire intensity throughout the state and more areas designated with high fire severity zones, our region is naturally interested in building construction that decreases fire risk. Fortunately, there is an overlap of strategies that reduce fire risk while also improving energy performance and indoor occupant health. This course walks through those strategies for new construction, highlighting the confluence of the Title 24 Energy code, WUI and Zero Net Carbon Design.
Learning Objectives

Understand where the energy code, Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) code and Zero Net Carbon Design (ZNCD) overlap in building construction.
Identify code requirements and key strategies for hardening the building envelope and improving energy efficiency through air sealing and strategic window choices.
Discuss impacts and opportunities for PV panels and battery storage systems, including size, placement and chemistry.
Evaluate options for locating electric heat pumps and heat pump water heaters to support both energy efficiency and fire resistance.

Learning Units

1.0 AIA HSW LU
1.0 CAB ZNCD CEU

Instructors
Andy Pease, In Balance Green Consulting
Jennifer Rennick, In Balance Green Consulting

Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration

Start Your Home Electrification Journey in the Kitchen
2026-04-21 18:00 - 19:15
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Are you interested in learning about the benefits of home electrification and where to begin?
During this webinar, Ecology Action will cover why induction cooking is winning professional cooks over, how modern heat pumps deliver efficient comfort in home heating and cooling, and where to start with a quick home assessment.
The Tri-County Regional Energy Network (3C-REN) will walk through incentives and rebates available to Central Coast residents from a variety of programs (including new rebates for induction cooktops/ranges and portable heat pumps), and demystify costs, contractors, and timelines.
oin live for Q&A and a chance to win a portable induction cooktop (must attend to be eligible).

Multi-Family Domestic Hot Water
2026-04-28 12:00 - 13:30
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Event Description
Moving from fossil-fuel boilers to other forms of domestic hot water heating can be challenging, but it’s definitely doable. This training offers experience and strategies for providing DHW in multifamily projects. As a result of this training, learners will be able to:
Learning Objectives

Identify the design considerations which should be included in a new or retrofit DHW system design
Demonstrate understanding of the differences in capacity design between a boiler based and heat pump DHW system
Utilize information from lessons learned in the field with new system designs to make confident decisions in design direction

Learning Units

1.5 AIA LUs approved for this course

Instructors
Albert Rooks, Small Planet Supply
Course Location
Zoom link provided upon registration
