Blog Archives | Efficiency First California

Spend a Bit More Now to Save Loads Later

By Charley Cormany | November 30, 2021

Heating and cooling replacements are often done upon failure. When this happens, the primary concern is to restore service, leading to decisions that have long-term impacts.

Here are a couple of things you should ask yourself.
1. Are you sacrificing long-term benefits for short-term results?
2. Is my contractor reacting to the situation or providing the best solution?
3. If contractors were responsible for paying your energy bills, would their suggestions be the same?

Creating a plan that accounts for the age of your equipment and its eventual failure might be the smartest thing you ever do.

What’s with all the natural gas bans in California?

By Charley Cormany | October 27, 2021

In Dec. 2019, the city of Berkeley adopted a reach code that placed a ban on natural gas in new construction. Since that time, forty-nine other cities and counties in California have done the same thing. Natural gas has long been promoted as the cleanest fossil fuel option. The state of California relies heavily on natural gas for heating water and space heating in buildings. If natural gas is the clean alternative, why are municipalities banning its use?

How to Deal with Emergency Replacements and Still Support Electrification

By Charley Cormany | September 30, 2021

One of the biggest challenges for residential decarbonization is the emergency replacement of appliances. While many people could be convinced of the benefits of electrifying their heating or cooking given enough time, when devices fail, most people want to restore service as soon as possible. Usually, that means replacing the failed device with something similar.…

What’s the Deal with Contractors and Heat Pumps?

By Charley Cormany | August 31, 2021

Electric heat pumps for space heating are getting a lot of attention these days, and with good reason. Heat pumps are a readily available alternative to gas furnaces. They are more efficient and perform as well or better than gas alternatives and yet contractors are reluctant embrace this proven technology. What is it about heat pump HVAC systems that is limiting widespread adoption?

Heat Pump Water Heaters – We Need to Get this Right

By Charley Cormany | July 30, 2021

The state of California has passed some of the most aggressive greenhouse gas reduction legislation in the county. To meet projected reductions outlined in these laws, California will need to wean itself from fossil fuels. Residential electrification efforts are in progress, and heat pump water heaters are a critical component. Heat pump water heaters are great, but there are some concerns. Check out some of the things we have learned about this new technology.

Simple Ways to Save Water – and Energy Too

By Charley Cormany | June 30, 2021

California is yet again in the midst of a historic drought. Saving as much water as possible will be essential to make it through this parched summer. Read more for tips on saving water and energy.

Energy Efficiency Finally Gets the Credit it Deserves

By Charley Cormany | May 29, 2021

Home performance contractors have been selling deep energy retrofits for years. One of the critical selling tactics is concentrating on the Non-Energy Benefits (NEBs) of high-performance buildings. The real question is what are they? And will the state policymakers every recognize the true value of these non-energy related benefits of energy efficiency?

Changing the Focus: From Saving Energy to Saving the Planet

By Charley Cormany | April 30, 2021

President Biden has already made it clear that combating climate change is a centerpiece of his administration’s agenda. Biden has reached an agreement with China and 40 other world leaders to cut greenhouse gas emissions significantly over the next decade. Will this national focus on climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions finally propel energy efficiency to the forefront?

Having Trouble Finding a Clean Energy Contractor? Efficiency First California is Making it Easier

By Charley Cormany | March 31, 2021

In the face of pandemic-related budget shortfalls, Efficiency First CA pivoted to keep staff working and created a tool that supports contractors in a new way. Read more to find out what went into the decision to develop and launch the all-new Clean Energy Connection.

Four Steps to a Clean Energy Future

By Charley Cormany | February 26, 2021

Having the proper knowledge and guidelines to a clean future is crucial now, as we continually see the impacts fossil fuels make to our climate. There are many tools and efficient steps everyone can take to be a part of this important change. Find out more on how to help keep the progression going and keep our environment and our families healthy.

Your Membership Matters