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The electricity and natural gas you use in your home causes greenhouse gases. Natural gas turns into a lot of carbon dioxide when it's burned for heat, while electricity is generated at a power plant, often by burning natural gas, coal, or other fossil fuels. Reduce your personal emissions by:
- Reducing your energy use through Energy Efficiency, and then
- Supplying the energy you need to use through "renewable" energy methods - like solar and wind power.
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Energy Upgrade California
Contra Costa County homeowners can get up to $10,000 in incentives and 3% financing for 15 years for upgrades to improve their homes' energy efficiency. Visit the City's Energy Upgrade - Pittsburg page for more details or check out energyupgradeca.org for rebate information and to find certified contractors in your area.
Energy Efficiency
Reduce your home’s emissions by reducing your electricity and natural gas use, and lowering your PG&E bills. If you are like the average Pittsburg home, then reducing your energy use by 20% can save you about $300 each year and reduce almost a ton of greenhouse gases. Cut your energy use in half, and you’ll save almost $750 a year and lower your emissions to below 2 tons.
How can I cut my energy bill in half? 
The Energy Savers website has many helpful tips for energy conservation, including:
- Low or No Cost efficiency upgrades
- Conducting an Energy Audit yourself
- What Long-Term Investments to make to your home
| Action |
Energy Savings |
| Upgrade to Energy Efficient Appliances |
5% |
| Weatherstripping |
10% |
| Attic Insulation |
5% |
| Furnace Upgrade |
4% |
| Use Less Hot Water |
9% |
| Reprogrammable Thermostat |
9% |
| Turn off Lights and Unplug Appliances |
4% |
| Install Efficient Lighting |
6% |
Your experience will vary, depending on the particular characteristic of your home.
For more great tips and ideas check out the Department of Energy's Energy Savers Booklet |
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Energy Efficiency Assistance for Low-Income Residences
The State, County, and PG&E offer three audit programs, depending on your income level:
|
Household Size |
Income Limits |
|
Low Income Energy Efficiency |
Family Electric Rate Assistance |
Contra Costa County Program |
|
1 to 2 |
$30,500 |
- |
$29,172 - $38,148 |
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3 |
$35,800 |
$35,801 – 44,800 |
$47,124 |
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4 |
$43,200 |
$43,201 – 54,000 |
$56,101 |
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5 |
$50,600 |
$50,601 – 63,200 |
$65,077 |
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6 |
$58,000 |
$58,001 – 72,400 |
$74,053 |
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Each additional |
$7,400 |
$7,400 – 9,200 |
$1,683 |
Maximum income limits are how much you can make and still qualify for each program. These limits are effective through May 31, 2009.
If you have any questions, call the numbers above. |