Program Specifics:

• Participation in this Sonoma County program is completely voluntary.
• Energy efficiency, water conservation and renewable energy generation upgrades must be permanently attached to the property to qualify. Items not permanently attached such as dishwashers and other appliances are not allowed. Improvements like insulation, cool roofing, heating and air conditioning systems, waterless urinals, solar panels and energy efficient windows are acceptable.
• Improvements must be for existing buildings, new construction does not qualify.
• Assessments are a lien on the property itself: when the property is sold, the assessment stays with the property.
• Repayment is made through your property tax bill over time.

Participating in the Sonoma County Energy Independence Program is easy. First decide how much makes sense to invest in energy and water efficiency or renewables for your home. Then fill out our application and follow a few simple steps (outlined below.) Before you know it, you’ll be realizing a monthly energy savings on your bill.

How to apply for SCEIP financing:

1. Obtain a PG&E or equivalent energy audit, and water conservation audit. Required for commercial properties; optional but highly recommended, for residential properties.
2. Consult with a California State licensed contractor to determine the cost of the improvements you want to make; then use our on-line calculator to get an estimate of your annual payment. You can check the status of a contractor's license at the Contractors State License Board website http://www.cslb.ca.gov/.
3. Commercial properties: If there is a mortgage on your property, obtain consent of your lender.
4. Download an application, provide all the information required, and return the completed application to SCEIP, 404 Aviation Blvd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403. Or email to: energyinfo@sonomacountyenergy.org
5. SCEIP staff will contact you, and let you know if your application is approved, if further information is required, or if the Program is not able to fund your improvements at this time.
6. Once your application is approved, hire your contractor, and obtain a permit from your local building department.
7. Submit your permit to SCEIP, and sign your assessment contract. All owners of the property will be required to sign the contract and have their signature notarized. A notary will be available at the SCEIP office on Aviation Blvd.
8. Have the work performed, then get sign-off from your local building inspector.
9. Submit your final documentation (finalized permit; invoices showing all costs, less rebate amounts) to SCEIP. Checks will be mailed on the first day of each month, but your final documentation must be filed with SCEIP five days before the end of the month for processing.