We Launched Two New Programs!
3C-REN is pleased to announce the launch of two new programs to enhance energy efficiency in our community: Commercial Energy Savings and Agriculture Energy Solutions. Both programs are part of our ongoing commitment to reduce energy use and support the Central Coast’s transition to a more sustainable energy future.
Commercial Energy Savings offers incentives to lower the cost of energy improvements at small and medium-sized businesses. Example projects might include water heater replacements, HVAC or refrigeration upgrades, and building insulation. The program not only aims to lower utility bills for business owners, but also promotes sustainable decarbonization practices—contributing to a healthier environment for everyone.
Agriculture Energy Solutions is designed specifically for tri-county farmers and agricultural producers with high energy usage, such as controlled environment agriculture and greenhouse operations. Recognizing the unique challenges this sector faces, the program offers specialized assessments to properly scope energy efficiency projects and connects producers to eligible incentives to help pay for upgrades. By investing in modern practices, farmers can potentially improve productivity while minimizing energy costs.
If these services are of interest to you, we invite you to explore them further by completing the corresponding interest forms.
$4,000 and $8,000 HEEHRA Rebates Now Available
Funded by 2021’s Inflation Reduction Act, HEEHRA rebates are now available for California residents. These rebates are being distributed through TECH Clean California and the contractors who enroll in their HEEHRA program.
Contractors: Now is an ideal time to look into TECH enrollment to unlock single-family HEEHRA rebates for your customers as high as $8,000 for heat pump HVAC systems. These new HEEHRA rebates can also stack with additional incentives from TECH Clean CA and Central Coast Community Energy, as well as our 3C-REN incentives, which will be available again this winter.
Single family HEEHRA rebates are available in two tiers:
- Household incomes between 80% and 150% of area median income (AMI) are eligible for up to $4,000
- Household incomes less than 80% of AMI are eligible for up to $8,000
Additionally, there is a multifamily HEEHRA program offering rebates for heat pump HVAC, heat pump water heaters, cooktops, ranges, ovens, and heat pump clothes dryers for multifamily homes that serve income-eligible customers.
- Contractors interested in offering TECH Clean California and HEEHRA rebates can find out more at switchison.org/ca/pros.
- Residents can visit switchison.org to find rebates, incentives, and enrolled contractors.
- Multifamily property owners can find details at techcleanca.com/incentives/heehrarebates.
Breakfast is on us!
We’re excited to help local contractors access new HEEHRA rebates and existing funding opportunities for your electrification projects. Join us for a free breakfast or lunch workshop on December 10th or 11th! Choose the location that’s best for you.
What's New?
- The 3C-REN multifamily program is offering a limited-time $5,000 incentive for up to five contractors* who install heat pump water heaters in participating multifamily properties. For more information email multifamily@3c-ren.org.
- Have you seen our new website? Explore our updated user-friendly design, learn about our new programs, and get access to the latest resources to keep you informed and inspired. www.3c-ren.org
- The Q4 calendar is live! Sign up for FREE online and in-person classes on the energy code, heat pump water heater installation, HRV systems, and more. Register today.
*Available to contractors who have not previously participated in a multifamily project.
Code Coach Corner
Certified Energy Analysts—Who They Are and Where to Find Them
Our Energy Code Coach hotline assists private and public sectors in answering tricky code questions, provides guidance to finding forms, and alleviates confusion between design team members. However, our service does not include providing the actual Title 24 documentation, often leading to questions like “who can I hire to prepare this report?”
Check out our latest blog post to learn more.
Regional Forum, Cornhole Tournament, and Learning Session!
On Friday, October 25th, 3C-REN partnered with the Santa Maria Valley Contractor Association on their inaugural cornhole tournament, a regional forum and fundraiser supporting SMVCA’s scholarship program. This initiative aims to help local students pursue careers in construction through college, apprenticeships, and trade schools.
Attendees enjoyed networking at the 3C-REN & Friends booth, connecting with partners, and learning about upcoming program opportunities—as well as practicing their aim! Local experts led a ‘Lunch and Learn’ session to provide valuable insights into 2025 Energy Code updates, enhancing knowledge and engagement across the construction community. Thank you to everyone who joined us! Keep an eye out for our next Regional Forum in early 2025.
All 3C-REN programs and services are free to participants in the tri-county region.
3C-REN offers ICC CEUs and AIA LUs for many of our educational events.
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