Recent federal updates have moved up deadlines for major clean energy tax credits and incentives. Here's a look at some of the options available in our area. Make sure you sign up for the Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge to track your progress. Mark as "complete" each action as you take it.
Contra Costa’s Sustainability Resources page highlights dozens of local, state, and federal programs that make it easier and more affordable to go green. Below is a summary of key updates and opportunities for residents and small businesses in Contra Costa County.
What’s Changing
Home Energy Upgrades — To qualify, installations for heat pumps, weatherization, electrical panels, home energy audits, rooftop solar, battery storage, or geothermal heating must be completed by December 31, 2025.
- Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit — Homeowners can still claim a 30% income tax credit on rooftop solar, wind energy, geothermal heat pumps, and battery storage, but projects must be completed by 2025.
- EV Charger Installations — To receive a tax credit, home and business charger installations must be completed by June 30, 2026. NOTE: Dedicated EV home chargers are not required for EV owners, but they will likely decrease your charging time.
- EV Purchase Credits ($7,500–$4,000) — The federal EV purchase credits have expired, although state and utility incentives may be available.
Use The Switch is On's lookup tool to learn about specific incentives.
CC Challenge Actions: Buy or Lease an Electric Vehicle, Install Electric Heat Pump Water Heater, Install Solar Panels, Install Eletric Heat Pump HVAC
Energy & Water Savings for Homeowners and Renters
BayREN EASE helps income-eligible residents make a variety of energy upgrades such as weatherization, smart thermostats, improved insulation or duct sealing, which help you lower bills and increase comfort year-round. See if you qualify.
- Solar and Battery Incentives: Programs like the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) and federal tax credits make clean energy more affordable. The best way to get started in accessing SGIP is to reach out to an installer who can help navigate the application process. Use the Approved SGIP Developer List to help find an installer in your area.
- Water-Smart Homes: Local water districts offer rebates on smart irrigation controllers, efficient toilets, and drought-tolerant landscaping.
CC Challenge Actions: Install Efficient Irrigation, Install Low Flow, Replace Your Lawn
Quick Links:
- EBMUD Rebates
- Contra Costa Water District Rebates
- MCE Home Energy Savings
- Contra Costa Weatherization Programs
- Golden State Rebates – Smart Thermostats
- Bay Area SunShares (rooftop solar & battery storage)
CC Challenge Actions: Install Smart Thermostat, Seal Air Leaks, Weatherize and Insulate Attic, Upgrade Air Conditioner
Clean Transportation: Drive Electric, Breathe Easier
Contra Costa residents can take advantage of electric vehicle rebates, tax credits, and utility discounts for installing home charging stations.
Quick Links:
- MCE EV Rebates
- PG&E EV Programs
- The IRS EV and plug-in hybrid rebates
- Clean Cars for All
- Ride & Drive Clean EV Guides
Clean commute options likepublic transit, biking, and walking are also being promoted to reduce emissions and congestion countywide.
CC Challenge Actions: Buy or Lease an Electric Vehicle, Bike, Walk, Skateboard or Unicycle, Combine Trips, Drive Less, Take the Train or Subway
For Small Business Owners
Contra Costa Green Business Certification Program Local businesses can become certified by adopting eco-friendly practices such as recycling, using energy-efficient lighting, conserving water, and switching to green cleaning products. Certified businesses can receive a $500 rebate to support changes.
Other Business Incentives:
- Energy Efficiency for Commercial Buildings: Rebates for lighting, refrigeration, and HVAC upgrades through MCE Clean Energy and BayREN Business.
- Solar and Battery Programs: Tax credits and rebates lower energy costs and carbon footprints.
- Water Efficiency Rebates: Incentives on irrigation retrofits and low-flow fixtures.
Quick Links:
Stay Involved
Contra Costa continues to offer a wide range of climate resilience, energy savings, and sustainability programs, even as some federal funding shifts. Together, we can make Contra Costa cleaner, more resilient, and more sustainable for everyone.
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