Residential energy efficiency

Energy efficiency loading order

Every home is different and will require different projects to address energy efficiency. One way homeowners can learn what to prioritize for their own homes is by getting a professional energy audit. The energy efficiency loading order is a general recommendation for residents to keep in mind as they start with home energy efficiency improvements. 

Low-hanging fruit

Start with simple measures that are inexpensive. These will provide the fastest return on investment. 

• Efficient lightbulbs
• Low-flow faucet aerators and shower heads
• Smart power strips
• Smart plug devices
• Smart thermostat

The Rising Sun Center for Opportunity Green House Call Program can provide most of these measures to residents (renters or owners) at no-cost. They operate the Green House Call program during the summer months. Visit the Green House Call website for current program information.

Home appliances

Once home appliances like refrigerators, dish washers, and clothes washers need to be replaced, look for energy efficient models. The EnergyStar website provides product information for home appliances. 

Building shell improvements

The building shell refers to the levels of insulation and air sealing in a home. A properly insulated home will be more comfortable in the winter and summer months and use less energy through their HVAC system. In some cases, homes that improve the insulation and air sealing can save money on furnace and air conditioning projects because they can now install smaller, more efficient units.

Learn about the importance of insulation and energy efficiency from a local insulation contractor in this 2021 webinar recording. 

Mechanical system upgrades and electrification

When it's time to replace large appliances like water heaters, furnaces, and air conditioners, choose the most efficient options to save on operating costs. 

Gas-powered appliances like furnaces and water heaters can be replaced with efficient electric-powered alternatives. Visit our Electrification Resources page to learn more about electrification projects. 

Solar, battery storage, and electric vehicles

These projects can be large investments. They are usually the final steps in a home becoming zero net energy or zero net carbon. Visit our solar and electric transportation pages for more information.

Rising Sun Center for Opportunity green house call

The Green House Call program provides installation of energy and water-saving devices including:

• Efficient lightbulbs
• Smart power strips
• Low-flow faucet aerators and shower heads
• Smart outlet plugs
• And more

The Green House Call program is available to renters and homeowners in single family or multifamily buildings. These measures do not require property owner approval. 

The Green House Call program runs during the summer months. Individuals in multifamily dwellings can sign up for the program. Property owners and managers are also encouraged to take advantage of the program and sign up all units in their buildings.

Visit the program website for more information.

Bay Area Multifamily Building Enhancements (BAMBE) program

The BAMBE program provides Bay Area multifamily residential buildings (5+ units) with no-cost site assessments and project support and access to per unit rebates for energy efficiency improvement and appliance electrification projects. 

Eligible measures include:

• Window replacements
• Insulation upgrades
• Common area lighting
• Appliance upgrades
• And more

Rebates are based on property location. Multifamily property owners and/or managers can get started by filling out a program interest form.