Incentives through 3C-REN (Tri-County Regional Energy Network), a partnership between Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties, are again available to help improve homes and other buildings with clean, energy efficient systems.
The renewed 2026 funding follows high demand in 2025, when incentives for single-family homes and the commercial sector were fully exhausted months ahead of schedule, according to 3C-REN.
The $9.5 million in incentives will support projects that reduce energy use, lower utility bills and improve comfort and safety. Past projects have included heat pump water heaters, heating and cooling systems, insulation, lighting, refrigeration, and other efficiency improvements.
Funding is available across the tri-county region for single-family homes, multifamily and commercial properties with dedicated budgets of about $3.5 million for single-family homes, $3.25 million for multifamily properties, and $2.75 million for commercial projects.
“Whether you’re replacing an old system, considering adding air conditioning to prepare for summer, or want a safer and more sustainable home, now is the time to switch to clean water heaters and HVAC heat pumps,” said Alejandra Tellez, director of sustainability for Ventura County.
“With these incentives, choosing an electric, energy-efficient system can be cheaper than a traditional gas replacement – and in some cases, the upgrade may be completely free when layered with other incentive programs, which our concierge can help you navigate,” Tellez said.
Program highlights
• For single family homes, incentives range from $750-$1,500 per project. Work with a 3C-REN enrolled contractor to access incentives. Learn more at 3c-ren.org/residents.
• For multifamily properties, incentives start at $1,000 per unit with $1,500 added incentives for projects that offer higher savings. Property owners may work with their preferred licensed contractor to access the funding. Learn more at 3c-ren.org/multifamily.
• For commercial properties, incentives can range from $500 to $6,000, depending on the project type. Work with a 3C-REN enrolled contractor to access incentives. Learn more at 3c-ren.org/commercial.
Enhanced incentives are available for residents and businesses that meet equity criteria, such as enrollment in utility assistance programs like CARE and FERA; households or business owners who do not speak English as their primary language; members of a California Native American Tribe; or small businesses with fewer than 25 employees.
The return of these local incentives is especially important as federal funding for energy efficiency and decarbonization faces significant rollbacks, 3C-REN officials said.
“3C-REN is proud to bring utility ratepayer dollars back to the tri-county region to re-invest in the local community, supporting climate goals and regional economic development while helping residents manage their energy use,” said Garrett Wong, Sustainability Division manager for Santa Barbara County.
“These incentives were incredibly popular last year, with funds running out mid-year. We’re thrilled to bring these programs back with replenished budgets in 2026,” Wong said.
In 2025, 3C-REN supported energy-saving improvements that benefitted more than 1,000 households across Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo and Ventura counties, representing a local investment of nearly $5.5 million in incentives.
For more information, visit 3c-ren.org/connect.