CCSE’s recent success in modifying the San Diego California Solar Initiative (CSI) program means rebates are available again for solar water heating systems in single-family homes using electricity or propane to heat water.
In January 2013, CCSE surpassed the amount of megawatts allocated to the CSI for residential solar projects in the SDG&E territory, including photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal systems. This meant homeowner applications for solar water heating rebates were put on a wait list for available funds.
Returning for a third year and offered on the last Tuesday of the month through June 2014, Skip’s Tips is the forum for valuable technical information, techniques and skills training for solar thermal professionals and those who want to be one.
Owners and operators of community and other types of public swimming pools soon will be able to take advantage of rebates for installing solar pool heaters under a new portion of the California Solar Initiative-Thermal Program.
In mid-August, the California Public Utilities Commission approved the additional rebates for solar pool heaters at commercial and government facilities, schools, multifamily housing and locations operated by nonprofit organizations. Swimming pools at single-family homes are not eligible for the rebate program.
CCSE recently hosted a five-day solar water heating installation training specifically for contractors, other industry professionals and self-installers who are looking to boost their careers. The training attracted more than a dozen participants with varying backgrounds and aspirations, motivated by a desire to advance their career in the burgeoning solar water heating market.
Rebates will soon be available in California for a wider range of solar water heating systems with applications in business, industry and commercial properties.
The California Public Utilities Commission has approved additional California Solar Initiative (CSI) rebates for solar water heating technologies, including space heating and cooling. These technologies have the potential to significantly reduce natural gas use and curb greenhouse gas emissions.
Effort to help increase energy efficiency of California homes and buildings
CCSE and CalCERTS, Inc. have entered into a partnership agreement to provide training for building science professionals and contractors in the San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego regions.
The training supports programs statewide to help homeowners and building owners understand and identify the most cost-effective and appropriate energy efficiency improvements. Residences and commercial buildings in the state account for about 65 percent of California’s total electrical consumption.
Limited space available. Register to secure your spot today.
Have you considered entering the solar water heating industry? This August, CCSE is joining with National Solar Trainers (NST) in offering a comprehensive five-day training geared toward preparing participants to become solar thermal installers, designers, sales and marketing professionals or entrepreneurs – at less than 10 percent of the normal cost.
The California Public Utilities Commission approved an advice letter on March 4, 2013, that modifies some areas of the CSI-Thermal Program Handbook. The changes further streamline program requirements and the application process for contractors and self-installers.
Specific details and requirements associated with the recent program changes and the latest edition of the CSI-Thermal Handbook are located here.
CCSE News for contractors
The California Energy Commission has awarded $4.5 million to CSE to develop workforce resources in disadvantaged communities to help improve the state’s energy efficiency in existing buildings. Funds for the four-year program are part of the commission’s Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC) initiative to create new power grid solutions and foster energy sector innovations.
Demand for home energy raters in California increased in July 2014. That’s when the state implemented an updated version of its building energy efficiency standards, enforcing stricter requirements for third-party testing and verification of home energy performance.
Solar water heating installation training June 9–13. Register today!
