EBD-Northern California Main Menu
EBD-Northern California Main Menu
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Equitable Building Decarbonization (EBD) Program?
The EBD Program helps Californians get free upgrades for their homes that make them more energy efficient and comfortable. These upgrades include better heating and cooling systems and water heaters that use less energy and are better for the planet.
Is my home eligible for the program?
You may qualify if:
- You live in a house, apartment building, or mobile home.
- Your home was built before 2020.
- You use gas, propane, or other fuels to heat your home or water.
- You live in a program-eligible neighborhood.
What are the income requirements?
For single-family and mobile homes: your household income must be at or below 80% of the area median income (AMI), or you must be enrolled in an income-qualified assistance program.
For multifamily properties: at least two-thirds of units must be at or below 80% of the AMI.
Not sure if your home qualifies? Fill out the Request More Information form and a community-based organization will help you check eligibility.
How much does it cost?
Nothing! The program pays for the assessment, equipment, installation, permits, and labor.
Which upgrades can I get?
You might get:
- A heat pump water heater
- A heat pump heating and cooling system
- An induction (electric) cooktop or range
- A heat pump clothes dryer
- Other upgrades that help your home use less energy and feel more comfortable, a full list of eligible measures is available in the program guidelines
What’s a heat pump?
It’s a machine that can work as a room heater, a heater/air conditioner, or the heater in a clothes dryer or water heater. It runs on electricity, not gas, and uses energy very efficiently to do the work.
What will my upgrade look like?
Every home is different, so your package will be designed specifically for your home. After a home assessment, the program will recommend the best improvements for your household, such as a heat pump heating and cooling system, induction stove, and/or other comfort and efficiency upgrades.
How do I get started?
Complete the Request More Information form. A local community-based organization will contact you, help you determine if you are eligible, answer your questions, and help you sign up.
What happens after I sign up?
- An energy expert will visit your home to see what upgrades you need.
- A trained contractor will install the upgrades and take care of permits.
Who installs the upgrades?
Only carefully selected contractors do the work. They are licensed, insured, and trained to install energy-efficient equipment. The program manages these contractors to make sure the work meets high safety and quality standards.
Can I apply if I am a renter?
Yes! Renters can also participate, but property owner approval will be needed before the home assessment can be performed and upgrades can be installed. You can fill out the Request More Information form and a local community-based organization will walk you through the process and work with the property owner.
What is an initial community focus area?
These are neighborhoods or regions the EBD program has identified because free clean energy upgrades will help them the most. They may have high energy bills, more pollution, more wildfires, or fewer programs for energy efficiency or electrification. The program begins in these places to help Californians who need it most.
What if my neighborhood isn’t included in the program?
Starting in 2026, communities outside the initial focus areas can apply to participate in future program phases. These communities must also be located in under-resourced or disadvantaged areas. More details will be shared when available.
Will I need to maintain the new equipment?
Yes, but it’s easy. Your contractor will show you how to keep things working well with basic maintenance tips.
Why should I participate?
You’ll enjoy a more comfortable home, lower energy use, and healthier indoor air — all at no cost to you. Plus, your upgrades help reduce pollution and build a cleaner energy future for your community.
What do I do if I suspect fraud?
Good question! Scammers are out there. Don’t give your financial info (bank account numbers or passwords, for example) to anyone offering to get rebates for you. If you think someone is trying to trick you, call the California Department of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-952-5210 for advice or to report them. Or talk to your local District Attorney’s Office.
Who should I contact for more information or questions?
You may email ebd@aeacleanenergy.org or use the Request More Information form.