Energy Efficiency in Buildings and Infrastructure
Why buildings and infrastructure?
Buildings and infrastructure are a major source of climate pollution in California. It is important to reduce our buildings' energy use and make them more energy efficient.
Addressing buildings and infrastructure has economic and human health benefits. Steps to make buildings more energy efficient can lower utility bills and health risks. For example, replacing gas-burning appliances with safer and more efficient electric models can reduce the asthma risk in your home.
What can you do?
Your options will depend on your budget and whether you rent or own your home or workplace. Every action is important and can contribute to making our homes, communities, and planet healthier.
Small spaces use less energy
The energy and resources required to run and maintain large buildings is significant. If you live in a large home, consider heating, cooling, and lighting only the spaces you are using.
Upgrade your lighting
Switch your existing lighting to more energy efficient LED lighting. LED light bulbs use about 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last up to 10 years. Learn more about LED light bulb options with the Energy Star LED Buying Guide.
Renters and homeowners can request a no-cost Green House visit from Rising Sun Center for Opportunity. Recommendations can include switching out your existing incandescent lamps for no-cost LEDs. Visit their website or call (510) 665-1501 extension 300 to schedule an appointment.
Assess the energy efficiency of your home or business
An energy assessment can help you learn how to save money and reduce your home or business energy use. Home Energy Score is a rating program that informs homeowners of how efficient their home is on a scale of 1 to 10. Each assessment comes with customized recommendations. To learn more, visit the Home Energy Score website or find an assessor to schedule a Home Energy Score directly.
BayREN Business provides rebates, financing, and technical assistance to ensure small and medium businesses can take part in energy saving programs. You can find more information on their programs by visiting their website.
The Marin Green Business Program also helps businesses to identify ways to save energy. Learn more about the Marin Green Business Program by visiting their website.
Make energy efficiency and electrification upgrades to your home
When you are ready to make energy efficiency improvements to your home, like switching from gas appliances to electric alternatives, you can get no-cost help through the BayREN Home+ program. Apply for electrification rebates through Electrify Marin.
Take part in behavior-based energy savings programs to save energy and get paid!
OhmConnect and HomeIntel are PG&E sponsored programs that pay you to reduce energy use throughout the day. There are no costs to participate.