There are many online resources to help you learn about home energy and water conservation. Here are some of them (see also the “How to Afford” and “Green Contractors” webpage on this site):
SUSTAINABLE LIVING AND BUILDING
Stopwaste.org
Association of Bay Area Governments provides many links about recycling, sustainability, green practices – click here
City of Oakland -Sustainable Oakland
City of Oakland – New Green Building Ordinances
Build It Green
Green building info, Certified Professionals directory – click here
Green Retrofitting & Construction
Planned program for existing buildings in Alameda County – click here
Sign up for program updates – click here
Shop Green in Alameda County
Links to businesses: contractors, vendors, energy auditors, and more – click here
Home Performance Contractors
Industry trade organization, with California members – click here
Dept of Energy Information Center
Home Energy Savings, including how to select contractors, products, do-it-yourself audits – click here
Federal Policy Report
Background report about economic recovery through retrofits – click here
WEATHERIZATION, ENERGY & WATER CONSERVATION
Free Weatherization
Qualify for free home improvements, as a low-income Oakland homeowner – click here
Energy & Water Conservation Tips
Useful summer and winter checklists from the City of Oakland – click here
Bay Friendly Landscaping
Green landscaping and conservation in your garden – click here
PG&E Services Resources
Residential energy conservation – click here
Home energy audits – click here
Rebates, Incentives, Services – interactive by zip code – click here
SmartSolar Program
Free home energy audits (rebate to Oakland residents) and home solar project analysis.
KEY FINANCING AND REBATE RESOURCES
City of Oakland Sustainable Oakland-Energy Programs for Residents
East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD)
Utility’s residential conservation rebates and services – click here
Energy Upgrade California in Alameda County click here
Federal Energystar Programs
Practical information and extensive details about tax credits – click here
Specific tax credits – click here
Frequently asked questions – click here