Orange County - OCHEEP!

The Orange County Homeowners Energy Efficiency Program (OCHEEP!), which targets self-organized groups of homeowners, includes mandatory energy-education components and offers rebate opportunities as part of a six-step process. The following improvements are generally eligible for rebates, provided that specific energy-saving criteria are met: energy audits; central air-conditioners; heat pumps; water heaters; windows; insulation (for attics, floor and concrete blocks); radiant barriers; attic ventilation (roof and soffit venting, and solar fans); reflective roofs; duct sealing and repairs; skylights; programmable thermostats, whole-house energy monitors; window film or solar screens; door and window sealing with caulk and weather stripping; ceiling fans; refrigerators, and LED lamps. In addition, rebates are available for photovoltaic (PV) systems two kilowatts or greater in capacity, and for solar water heaters that replace electric water heaters.

The maximum rebate per homeowner is $1,000. Rebate amounts for eligible expenditures range from $50 to $700 and vary by technology. Rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis until program funding is exhausted. An energy audit performed by a certified energy rater is required, and most improvements must be installed by licensed contractors. Improvements made to new homes are not eligible. See the program web site for more information regarding improvement eligibility and program requirements.