On March 25, 2009 the County of Sonoma launched an innovative new program which offers property owners the opportunity to finance energy efficient improvements through the property tax system. Sonoma County is the first in the state to implement this new effort to improve energy efficiency, water conservation and renewable energy generation, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions. All nine cities within the county are also expected to join this program.
Improvements must be permanently affixed to the property, and can include (but are not limited to): high efficiency windows, solar and/or tankless water heaters, solar panels, upgraded wall and roof insulation, "smart" irrigation systems, and high efficiency HVAC systems. Working with their contractor, property owners determine the scope and costs of proposed retrofits and apply for funding from the county. If approved, the county pays the up-front costs, places an assessment lien on the property, and the owner repays the county through the property tax system over a 5, 10, or 20 year period. If the property is sold, the new owner takes on the obligation to repay for the improvements.
Contact Tom Trent Builders (707) 865-1250 or tom@tomtrentbuilders.com for more information and to schedule a free consultation. www.sonomacountyenergy.org is the official website for the program, where you can get all the details and application forms.
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