Sonoma County Launches Energy Independence Program

March 25, 2009: SANTA ROSA, Calif. - The Sonoma County Energy Independence Program (SCEIP) was formally adopted today by the county's Board of Supervisors. The Board's action was followed by a grand opening of the program's storefront at 404 Aviation Blvd. in Santa Rosa. SCEIP is the first county program of its kind, using the authority of Assembly Bill (AB) 811 to fund energy improvement projects on private property. The program is expected to have a profound impact on greenhouse gas emissions throughout Sonoma County, and is also expected to provide a stimulus for green technology jobs.

Sonoma County and the Sonoma County Water Agency have jointly pledged up to $100 million to fund energy efficiency and water conservation improvements for residential and commercial property owners. Property owners who want to use the funding must agree to repay the program through an assessment on their property taxes over a term of 5, 10, or 20 years. The tax assessments are tied to the properties, and may, therefore, be passed from one owner to the next. Details of the program, including application procedures, a list of approved projects, and frequently asked questions, may be obtained at the storefront, or on the program's web site: www.sonomacountyenergy.org.

The Board's action Wednesday was the culmination of many months of effort following the passage of AB 811 in July of 2008. SCEIP is the first county level program of its kind, and the $100 million funding pledge makes it the largest and most ambitious AB 811 program in California. "This program clearly demonstrates Sonoma County's commitment to, and leadership in, the area of climate protection," said Board Chairman Paul Kelley. "It is exciting because it enables residents throughout the county to take positive steps toward combating climate change," Kelley said. "Another benefit of this program is that it will generate "green" business and new "green" jobs," he added. As part of a broad community alliance, Sonoma County it committed to a goal of reducing community-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to 25% below 1990 levels by 2015. SCEIP is one of many strategies being employed to meet this goal.

The County of Sonoma is comprised of 26 departments and agencies that provide a full range of services to the community. It encompasses over 1600 square miles and is home to more than 475,000 residents. Sonoma County government has a history of providing excellent and responsive public service while operating under sound fiscal principles. Located less than one hour north of San Francisco, Sonoma County combines in one location the beautiful Pacific coastline, award-winning wineries, majestic redwoods, historic towns, fine dining, and a wide variety of entertainment and cultural activities.

Contact:

Jim Toomey · (707) 565-2188 jtoomey@sonoma-county.org
Amy Bolten - (707) 547-1981 Amy.Bolten@scwa.ca.gov

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