HVAC System Rebate

A large portion of your electric bill can be attributed to heating and air conditioning systems. In a typical California office, air conditioning and ventilation alone can account for 35-45% of the electric bill. 

If you need to replace your old air conditioner or would like to reduce the operating cost of your existing unit, Silicon Valley Power offers rebates on the purchase and installation of new, more efficient systems. Not only will you save money on your new equipment, your employees will enjoy a more comfortable working environment while your company saves money on its electric bills. 
If you would like to reduce your facility’s operating costs, improving the efficiency of your air conditioning equipment is one of your best options. Silicon Valley Power is offering rebates for installing advanced controls on rooftop air conditioners. The controls – referred to as advanced rooftop controller– optimize the operation of your existing equipment and reduce your building’s air conditioning costs by as much as 40%. In addition, the advanced rooftop controller improves the unit’s supply of fresh air, providing a healthier workplace while saving money. 

Heat Pump Rebate

When you install a heat pump in your business, you could get a check from the electric utility - IF you install an energy efficient one.  

Here are the forms you'll need:

• Air Conditioner / HVAC Application - Complete and submit this form when applying for a rebate for installing a new rooftop air conditioner
• Advanced Rooftop Controller Application - use this form when applying for a rebate for installing controls on your existing rooftop air conditioner
• Heat Pump Application - Complete and submit this form when applying for a rebate for installing a new rooftop air conditioner (heat pump)
• Sample invoice

Tools to Help You

Use SVP calculators to estimate your potential rebate payments

• Air Conditioner / HVAC and Heat Pump Rebate Calculators - Use this calculator to help determine equipment eligibility and rebate value
• Advanced Rooftop Controller Calculator – Use this calculator to help determine the rebate value

Remember, you must apply for pre-approval of your upgrade plans prior to installation.  For information on eligibility and program details, email savemoney@siliconvalleypower.com or call 408-615-6650. 

One of the most cost-effective ways to reduce energy costs is to improve the performance of your facility’s existing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. For buildings with HVAC systems controlled by building automation systems, you may be able to optimize HVAC performance by reprogramming the control system. Typically, this involves conducting an energy assessment that provides an implementation plan for testing and making control system improvements that optimize HVAC operation.

Building Controls and Optimization Programs Flyer

When is Optimization Needed?

If your facility is more than 5 years old, it’s likely your HVAC system operation and performance can be improved.

Over time, your facility’s HVAC system loses its ability to operate efficiently to meet your heating and cooling needs. Often this is due to equipment aging and to changes in building usage. But sometimes the HVAC system has never operated as intended due to design or construction deficiencies.

By optimizing HVAC system performance, you will improve occupant comfort, reduce maintenance costs, and reduce both your gas and electric utility costs. As an added bonus, SVP will pay you cash incentives over a 3-year period based on the energy you save.

What types of projects qualify?

HVAC optimization based on reprogramming, calibration, and/or adjustments made to the existing HVAC building automated system or energy management system controls. Contact an SVP energy engineer to determine project eligibility. Whether or not a particular project will be approved for a rebate is up to the sole discretion of SVP.

What types of projects are ineligible?

The addition of a new control system or a major expansion of the existing control system are not eligible for a rebate under this program. However, they may be eligible for rebates under SVP’s Controls Program. If HVAC improvements include measures that repair broken equipment, the energy savings associated with those repairs may not be included in the estimated rebate payment.

Here are the forms you'll need:

• Building Optimization Pilot Rebate Application - Complete and submit this form.
• Sample invoice - This sample invoice provides an example of the proof of payment that must be submitted when your project is complete.

Remember, you must apply for pre-approval of your upgrade plans prior to purchase and installation. For information on eligibility and program details, email savemoney@siliconvalleypower.com or call 408-615-6650.

Automated control systems with advanced energy management capabilities save energy while improving the performance of building air conditioning or industrial process. The Controls Program offers performance-based rebates to customers who install, commission, and maintain an energy-saving control system. Rebate payments are provided over a 5 year period based on verified energy savings.

Building Controls and Optimization Programs Flyer

What Types of Projects Qualify?

The Controls Program is limited to projects where automated control strategies account for more than 80% of a project’s energy savings. Control projects are limited to HVAC or process control systems. Eligible projects include the installation of a new control system or the significant expansion and upgrade of an existing control system. The Control system must be re-commissioned on a yearly basis, according to the approved commissioning plan.

Whether or not a particular project will be approved for a rebate is up to the sole discretion of SVP.

What Types of Projects are Ineligible?

Projects that are installed and completed before application pre-approval are ineligible. Projects based on reprogramming existing control systems are ineligible. All energy-efficiency projects are subjected to SVP approval - please consult with an SVP energy efficiency program representative to determine if your project is eligible for rebates under this program.

Here are the forms you'll need:

• Controls Rebate Application - Complete and submit this form when applying for a rebate for the installation of advanced controls for either air conditioning or manufacturing processes.

Resources:

• Sample Invoice - This sample invoice provides an example of the proof of payment that must be submitted when your project is complete.

Remember, you must apply for pre-approval of your upgrade plans prior to installation. For information on eligibility and program details, email savemoney@siliconvalleypower.com or call 408-615-6650.

The Customer Directed Rebate Program provides unique opportunities for energy-efficiency projects that may not otherwise fit into our standard rebate and customer assistance offerings. Now more than ever, customers have the opportunity to capitalize on a broader selection of energy-saving projects.

Customer Directed Rebate Flyer

What Types of Projects Qualify?

Energy efficiency related projects that decrease electrical usage at a facility located in SVP service territory may qualify. Examples of systems that may be eligible for a rebate include: chilled water plants, air compressors, fan or pump systems and unique processes. Please contact an SVP energy engineer to determine if your proposed project is eligible.

What Types of Projects are Ineligible?

Ineligible projects include self-generation, cogeneration and fuel switching projects, or those installed and completed before application pre-approval. Projects involving equipment not permanently installed or easily removed may also be ineligible for a Customer Directed Rebate. All energy-efficiency projects are subjected to SVP approval. 

Funding Limits

• Incentives are limited to 80 percent of the project's cost
• Maximum customer incentive per year is $1,500,000
• Maximum incentive per project is $1,500,000

Here are the forms you'll need:

Use one of the two available rebate forms. The standard rebate application form applies to most projects. The performance-based application is for projects with higher levels of savings uncertainty. Please consult an SVP energy engineer to determine which rebate application is appropriate for your project.

• Customer Directed Rebate Application - Complete and submit this form for customized rebate projects
• Performance-Based Customer Directed Rebate Application - Complete and submit this form for projects with a lower certainty of persistent energy savings where annual measurement and verification is required
• Sample invoice

Tools to Help You

The following calculators are available to help you estimate project savings for typical variable speed drive installations.

• HVAC Fan VSD Calculator
• HVAC Pump VSD Calculator

Remember, you must apply for pre-approval of your upgrade plans prior to installation. For information on eligibility and program details, email savemoney@siliconvalleypower.com or call 408-615-6650.

The Data Center Program is targeted to data centers with IT server loads greater than 350 kW or IT cooling loads greater than 100 tons. This program provides unique opportunities for energy-efficiency projects that may not otherwise fit into our standard rebate and customer assistance offerings. 

Data Center Program Flyer

What Types of Projects Qualify?

Energy efficiency projects that decrease electrical usage at a data center facility in SVP service territory may qualify. Retrofits to existing data centers that reduce fan energy usage or increase the efficiency of the cooling system may be eligible for rebate. New data centers with an energy efficient design as compared to a typical data center may also be eligible for rebate. Contact an SVP energy engineer to determine project eligibility. Whether or not a particular project will be approved for a rebate is up to the sole discretion of SVP.

What Types of Projects are Ineligible?

Ineligible projects include self-generation, cogeneration and fuel switching projects, or those installed and completed before application pre-approval. Projects involving equipment not permanently installed or easily removed may also be ineligible for a rebate. All energy-efficiency projects are subject to SVP approval.

Here are the forms you'll need:

• Data Center Rebate Application  - Complete and submit this form along with a project description and savings calculation for retrofit projects.
• Data Center New Construction Rebate Application - Complete and submit this form along with a project description and savings calculation for new construction projects.
• Sample invoice - This sample invoice provides an example of the proof of payment that must be submitted when your project is complete.

Remember, you must apply for pre-approval of your upgrade plans prior to purchase and installation. For information on eligibility and program details, email savemoney@siliconvalleypower.com or call 408-615-6650.

Have you ever thought that you would like to show off a new energy-saving technology, but didn't have the funding? We want to help. Take advantage of SVP's new, increased incentive for Emerging Technologies Gra Program.

SVP wants to help you implement projects that:

• Demonstrate new products and product applications not yet commercially viable in today’s marketplace
• Install energy efficient technologies not generally known or widely accepted, yet show potential for successful market growth
• Successfully apply energy efficiency solutions in new ways
• Introduce energy efficiency into industries or businesses that are resistant to adopting new technologies or practices

SVP will provide grants to customers who implement exceptionally creative uses of energy technology. Grant award limits will be paid based on energy saved, subject to a maximum of 85 percent of project cost up to a $250,000 limit per customer. Program funding is limited to $500,000 per year.

Download the application to see what you need to do to apply for this grant.

Here are the forms you'll need:

• SVP Emerging Technologies Grant Program Application
• Sample invoice

Remember, you must apply for pre-approval of your upgrade plans prior to installation. For information on eligibility and program details, email savemoney@siliconvalleypower.com or call 408-615-6650.

Energy Efficiency Grant Program for Nonprofit Organizations

Silicon Valley Power offers grants to eligible nonprofit organizations located in the City of Santa Clara to help fund energy efficiency upgrades. This program is targeted at helping nonprofit organizations improve energy efficiency of their facilities and reduce their electric bills.  

Who is eligible?

Organizations registered as a 501(c)3 or 501(c)19 nonprofit organization may apply. Organizations must own or lease property in the City of Santa Clara and receive electric service from Silicon Valley Power.

What type of projects may be funded?

Energy efficiency projects that save electric energy may be eligible. Typical projects include but are not limited to lighting, HVAC, and weatherization upgrades. 

How much money is available?

The maximum available funds for a single project is $25,000. Matching funds of 20% are required. Grant funds will be paid per the schedule outlined in the pre-approval notice.

Timeline for funding

Grant awards will be made twice during the program year to successful applicants. Applications are due as follows: 

• Summer grant period: June 30 of each year
• Winter grant period: December 31 of each year. 

Awards will be announced within 4 weeks after the application period ends.

Here is the form that you’ll need:

• Energy Efficiency Grant Program for Nonprofit Organizations Application Form

For complete list of program rules and required submittals, please download and review the application form. 

Remember, you must receive pre-approval of your grant application prior to purchase and installation in order to be eligible. For questions, email savemoney@siliconvalleypower.com or call 408-615-6650.

The Food Service Equipment Rebate Program provides cash incentives for purchasing qualifying, energy-efficient commercial food service equipment. Upgrade your kitchen with the latest technologies in cooking and hot/cold storage equipment and save a bundle on your annual energy costs. Switch from natural gas equipment to electric equipment and receive a bonus rebate.

Look for the ENERGY STAR® label on the following appliances: fryers, holding cabinets, commercial refrigerator / freezers, and steam cookers.

SVP is offering rebates for installing advanced controls for commercial kitchen ventilation systems. Demand control kitchen ventilation systems vary the fan speed of your kitchen exhaust hood and make-up air systems. They use advanced sensors that vary speeds based on cooking activity. Not only do they save money on energy costs, but they also reduce noise, increase occupant comfort, and they reduce wear and maintenance costs of your kitchen ventilation equipment. 

Food Service Equipment Rebate Program Flyer 

Did you know that:

• For each ENERGY STAR-qualified electric steam cooker you purchase, you can save on average $450 per year on your utility costs
• Commercial solid door refrigerators and freezers are up to 45 percent more efficient than standard models
• Hot food holding cabinets with the ENERGY STAR label can provide you with up to $615 in annual cost savings

Visit the Food Service Technology Center website to obtain a qualified equipment list and other useful information on efficient commercial kitchen best practices.

Here are the forms you'll need:

• Pre-Approval Form for Demand Control Ventilation Systems - Complete and submit this form along with the rebate application when applying for a demand control kitchen ventilation rebate.
• Food Service Equipment Rebate Application - Complete and submit this form when applying for food service equipment rebates.

Resources:

• Food Service Equipment Rebate Calculator - Use this calculator to estimate the potential rebate for installing energy efficiency food service equipment.
• Sample invoice - This sample invoice provides an example of the proof of payment that must be submitted when your project is complete.

Remember, you must apply for pre-approval of your upgrade plans prior to installation. For information on eligibility and program details, email savemoney@siliconvalleypower.com or call 408-615-6650.

Heat Pump Water Heater Rebate 

Replace your existing electric resistance water heater and receive a rebate of $1,000. Heat pump water heaters operate more efficiently than electric resistance water heaters, lowering your operating costs while meeting your hot water needs.

If your existing water heater uses natural gas, replace it with a heat pump water heater and receive an electrification bonus rebate of $2,000 for a total rebate of $3,000. With this conversion, you will also reduce your carbon footprint and help your business meet its sustainability goals.

Things you should know

Heat pump water heaters draw heat from the surrounding air to heat the water and require access to an ample supply of air to operate effectively. According the U.S. Department of Energy, heat pump water heaters should be placed in a location that remains between 40°-90°F year around and has at least 1,000 cubic feet of air space (12’ x 12’ of floor space). Some manufacturers require only 700 cubic feet of space.

If you are replacing a natural gas water heater, check to ensure the electric circuit supply can support a new heat pump water heater. If not, you may need to upgrade your electric panel.

All water heaters have a metric called the “First Hour Rating” which is a function of the storage capacity and the speed at which it can heat water. Select a heat pump water heater that matches the First Hour Rating of your existing water heater.

Here are the forms you’ll need:

• Heat pump water heater rebate application - Complete and submit this form when applying for a rebate for installing a heat pump water heater

• Sample invoice

Remember, you must apply for pre-approval of your upgrade plans prior to installation.  For information on eligibility and program details, email savemoney@siliconvalleypower.com or call 408-615-6650. 

Installing new energy efficient lighting will reduce your energy costs while enhancing the quality of light in your facility. Take advantage of the latest technologies to improve the look and feel of your business, increase productivity and receive a rebate from Silicon Valley Power. To get started, simply download and use the lighting rebate calculator to determine your potential rebate and energy savings. Bonus rebates are available for upgrading exterior lighting and adding networked lighting controls to exterior lighting systems through June 30, 2026.

Lighting Rebate Program Flyer

Bonus Rebate: Outdoor Lighting Program Flyer

Here are the forms you'll need:

• Lighting Rebate Application - Complete and submit this form when applying for a lighting retrofit rebate.
• Lighting Rebate Calculator - Submit calculator with the rebate application when applying for a rebate. The rebate calculator establishes your lighting project’s potential rebate. See the Lighting Rebate Calculator tutorial.

Resources:

• Sample invoice - This sample invoice provides an example of the proof of payment that must be submitted when your project is complete.

Remember, you must apply for pre-approval of your upgrade plans prior to installation. For information on eligibility and program details, or for assistance in completing the forms, email savemoney@siliconvalleypower.com or call 408-615-6650.

Locating your business in Santa Clara is a smart move. Not only does it offer the lowest utility costs in the Bay Area, but Silicon Valley Power also provides valuable rebates to businesses that are building or expanding facilities with energy-efficient equipment.

Nonresidential newly-constructed buildings, newly constructed building additions, and major renovations where building shell is retained and new HVAC and lighting systems are installed are eligible for a rebate. See application for eligibility rules.

New Construction Incentives Flyer

Design Team Incentives Now Available

SVP offers financial incentives to design teams who develop high performance buildings that save energy. Incentives of up to $50,000 are available for buildings meeting the program performance and eligibility requirements. For further details, see the eligibility rules in the program application form.

Here are the forms you'll need:

• New Construction Rebate Application - Complete and submit this form when applying for a rebate.
• Indoor Lighting Rebate Calculator - This calculator is used to establish the potential rebate for installing energy efficient indoor lighting in a newly constructed facility.
• Outdoor Lighting Rebate Calculator - This calculator is used to establish the potential rebate for installing energy efficient exterior lighting at a newly constructed site.

Resources:

• Sample invoice - This sample invoice provides an example of the proof of payment that must be submitted when your project is complete.

Remember, you must apply for pre-approval of your upgrade plans prior to installation. For information on eligibility and program details, email savemoney@siliconvalleypower.com or call 408-615-6650. 

Nonprofit Solar Grant

Silicon Valley Power offers grants up to $100,000 to qualifying nonprofit organizations for the installation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system at their facility. Grants may cover up to 100 percent of the system cost. Up to ten percent of the grant funds may be used on qualifying building repairs or infrastructure to make the site PV ready. Examples include roofing repairs or a ground mount structure to support PV panels. Projects cannot exceed 80 percent of the site’s annual energy usage.

Applications will be pre-approved on a first come, first served basis until all funds are exhausted. Customers will have six months from the date of pre-approval to install the PV system to receive the rebate.

Once all funds have been reserved, Silicon Valley Power will maintain a waiting list. If any pre-approved projects are not complete within the six-month requirement or withdraw their application, funds will be awarded to customers on the waiting list.

Here is the form you’ll need:

Nonprofit Solar Grant Application and Program Rules – Complete and submit this form for pre-approval to reserve your commercial solar rebate.

Commercial Solar Rebate Program

Silicon Valley Power is offering a commercial solar photovoltaic (PV) rebate program for customers who install a qualifying PV system. The program is intended to help offset the utility’s peak demand, especially during the summer months. Rebates will be paid as either an up-front rebate of $0.75 per Watt or as a performance-based incentive of $0.30 per kWh over two years. Payments will be made quarterly. For projects pre-approved after Jan. 1, 2026 that are completed and receive Permission to Operate by Dec. 31, 2026, Silicon Valley Power will provide a 30% bonus rebate.

Projects must be between 50 kW and 1MW and cannot exceed 80 percent of the customer’s annual energy usage. Projects must be pre-approved prior to beginning the project to be eligible. Pre-approval is on a first come, first served basis until all funds are exhausted. Customers will have six months from the date of pre-approval to install the PV system to receive the rebate.

Once all funds have been reserved, Silicon Valley Power will maintain a waiting list. If any pre-approved projects are not complete within the six-month requirement or withdraw their application, funds will be awarded to customers on the waiting list.

Here is the form you will need:

Commercial Solar Rebate Application and Program Rules – Complete and submit this form for pre-approval to reserve your commercial solar rebate.

If your project is eligible for the bonus incentive in 2026, please submit the Commercial Solar Rebate Bonus Payment Form in addition to the rebate application.