Enrollment in the Bay Area Regional Energy Network's (BayREN) multifamily and single family programs has achieved significant ground in capitalizing on energy savings potential. BayREN provides cash rebates to both multifamily and single family homeowners who undertake energy efficient property improvements. While both programs have received great interest and participation, BayREN's multifamily program stands out as it has outperformed other multifamily energy upgrade programs in California by a factor of three to four.
As of December 2014, rebates totaling over $6.2 million were paid to multifamily property owners in the Bay Area, and $2.2 million was paid to or reserved for single family homeowners. These programs create meaningful impact across the region with job creation, economic stimulus, cost savings, and the advancement of environmental policy. Participating multifamily properties reduced their total energy use on average by 16 percent.
"The BAYREN programs are protecting California's energy and air resources, reducing property owners' energy bills, helping Bay Area governments meet their Greenhouse Gas reduction targets, and contributing to the growth of the green building industry which in turn creates jobs," said San Mateo County Supervisor Dave Pine. Local businesses benefit from access to green job training and job creation, which stimulates the regional economy.
Administered by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG), BayREN implements effective energy saving programs on a regional level and draws on the expertise, experience, and proven track record of Bay Area local governments to develop and administer successful climate, resource, and sustainability programs. The BayREN program is one example of ABAG's leadership in delivering innovative programs for regional environmental sustainability. BayREN is a collaborative program with all nine Bay Area counties participating. Each county has a representative to respond to homeowners and help them access funds and program upgrades.
BayREN offers a Home Upgrade Advisor Service, which provides free one-on-one assistance to homeowners and contractors. Home Upgrade Advisors are Building Performance Institute certified energy efficiency professionals who can inform homeowners about their energy efficiency options, help select an appropriate participating contractor for the single family program, and navigate project installation and financing processes.
For more information, homeowners can contact a Home Upgrade Advisor by calling 866-878-6008 or by submitting a brief form to https://www.bayren.org/.
Founded in 1961, ABAG is the official regional planning agency for 100 cities and towns, and nine counties of the Bay Area and is recognized as the first council of governments in California.