CaliforniaFIRST

The CaliforniaFIRST Program is a property assessed clean energy (PACE) finance program. PACE programs allow property owners within participating regions to finance the installation of energy and water improvements on their home or business and pay the amount back as a line item on their property tax bill. The CaliforniaFIRST Program is sponsored by the California Statewide Communities Development Authority (California Communities), an association of counties and cities, in partnership with Renewable Funding and the Royal Bank of Canada Capital Markets.

Pursuant to AB 811, the State of California’s Clean Energy Municipal Financing Law signed into law last year, property owners may finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that are permanently affixed to the property. Recent legislation, AB 474, expanded the Program’s reach to include the financing of water efficiency projects. Eligible projects under the CaliforniaFIRST Program may include but are not limited to air sealing, wall and roof insulation, energy efficient windows, tankless water heaters, photovoltaics (solar electricity), and low-flow toilets.

Local Government:
A local government must adopt the Program in order for local residents to apply for financing. Renewable Funding is currently working with a group of pilot counties and cities to launch the initial stage of the Program. We anticipate expanding the program to all interested counties and cities in 2010. Counties and cities can get more information on how to join the Program by clicking on the link below:

CaliforniaFIRST Local Government Information

Property Owners:
Property owners can take advantage of financing through CaliforniaFIRST after their local government joins the Program.  Find out if your region is participating in CaliforniaFIRST and how you can install energy and water improvements by visiting the link below:

CaliforniaFIRST Property Owner Information