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
Recent federal updates have moved up deadlines for major clean energy tax credits:
- 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 Credit — Homeowners can still claim a 30% income tax credit on rooftop solar, wind energy, geothermal heat pumps, and battery storage but this program expires at the end of 2025.
- EV Charger Installations — To receive credit, home and business charger installations must be completed by June 30, 2026.
- EV Purchase Credits ($7,500–$4,000) — Many federal EV purchase credits have expired, though new state and utility rebates remain available.
Learn about specific tax credits here.
Energy & Water Savings for Homeowners and Renters
BayREN Home+ offers rebates for insulation, duct sealing, and switching from gas to electric heat pumps, helping you lower bills and increase comfort year-round.
- Solar and Battery Incentives: Programs like the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) and federal tax credits make clean energy more affordable.
- Water-Smart Homes: Local water districts offer rebates on smart irrigation controllers, efficient toilets, and drought-tolerant landscaping.
Quick Links:
- MCE Home Energy Savings
- Contra Costa Weatherization Programs
- Switch Is On – Incentives Guide
- Golden State Rebates – Smart Thermostats
- Bay Area SunShares
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:
Clean commute options like public transit, biking, and walking are also being promoted to reduce emissions and congestion countywide.
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:
Funding Challenges & Canceled Grants
While many programs continue, some planned federal funding has been canceled:
- North Richmond Community Resilience Initiative ($19.1 M) — Canceled EPA grant intended for flood prevention, a disaster response hub, and Wildcat Creek restoration.
- Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano ($150,000) — Ended grocery rescue grant that supported Vallejo food recovery efforts.
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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