CSI-Thermal Rebate Program

The California Solar Initiative (CSI) Thermal Program is the solar rebate program for California consumers who are customers of one of the four investor-owned utilities in the state. The day-to-day administrative policy and activities, including application processing and rebate funding are handled by each of these utilities, which includes Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), Southern California Edison (SCE), Southern California Gas (SoCalGas) and the Center for Sustainable Energy (CCSE) on behalf of San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E).

The CSI-Thermal Program offers cash rebates of up to $500,000 for solar water heating systems installed on commercial or multi-family buildings. Rebates are based on how much annual energy the system is expected to displace. Commercial and multi-family buildings that heat their water with natural gas may receive a maximum rebate of $500,000. Commercial and multi-family buildings that heat their water with electricity or propane may receive a maximum rebate of $250,000. Rebates will decrease in a four-tiered declining rebate structure over the life of the program—which will run until December 31, 2017, or until the rebate money runs out. The earlier you apply for a rebate, the more you will be eligible to receive.

Are You Eligible for a Rebate?

You can qualify for a CSI-Thermal Program rebate if you meet the following eligibility requirements:

You install a solar water heating system in the service territory of PG&E, SCE, SoCalGas or SDG&E
You use a qualifying system that displaces either natural gas, electricity or propane as the fuel for heating water
You use an eligible CSI-Thermal Solar Water Heating Contractor to select and install your system

Additional Financial Rebate

Currently, A Federal Tax Credit may be available on the installed cost of the system.

Frequently Asked Questions about the CSI-Thermal Program

What if I am not a customer of PG&E? Is there a way for me to still apply for a rebate?

Only customers of the four investor-owned utilities are eligible to receive a rebate under the CSI-Thermal program. However, you should check with your electric and gas providers to find out if they offer any solar water heating rebates or if you qualify for federal tax deductions.

What equipment is eligible to receive a rebate through the CSI-Thermal program?

Solar water heating equipment must be certified by the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC) or International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO). SRCC or IAPMO OG-100 certified equipment must be installed on commercial or multi-family buildings.

Currently, only solar water heating technology will be eligible for the rebate. Other solar thermal technologies, such as space heating, radiant floor heating and space cooling may be introduced into the rebate program at a later date.

What are the rebate amounts?

For solar water heating systems installed on commercial or multi-family buildings rebates of up to $500,000 are available. Rebates are based on how much annual energy the system is expected to displace. Commercial and multi-family buildings that heat their water with natural gas may receive a maximum rebate of $500,000. Commercial and multi-family buildings that heat their water with electricity or propane may receive a maximum rebate of $250,000.

Rebates will decrease in a four-tiered declining rebate structure over the life of the program—which will run until December 31, 2017, or until the rebate money runs out. The earlier you apply for a rebate, the more you will be eligible to receive. To access the rebate calculator, visit www.csithermal.com/calculator.

How do I find a contractor?

In order to qualify for the CSI-Thermal Program rebate, you must use an eligible contractor. To find one that’s right for you, review these tips.

How can I learn more?

We recommend you attend one of our free classes or workshops. You can also contact us at solar@pge.com.

Rebate Amounts Increased

Rebate amounts recently increased. Act now!

Find Eligible Contractors

Solar water heating contractors can provide potential energy savings and project cost for your business. Find a contractor near you.

Solar Water Heating Kit

Download this Solar Water Heating Kit for information on the benefits of Solar Water Heating, how the system works, rebates available and how to find a contractor to get started today.