January 8, 2013 > Flex Package improves access to energy-efficiency rebates Flex Package improves access to energy-efficiency rebates Submitted By Alexis Vanni For a limited time, Alameda County homeowners wishing to lower their utility bills and enhance the comfort of their homes can qualify for $1,500 in rebates for energy-saving home improvements through Flex Package. Rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis to owners of single-family homes in Alameda County and are offered through Energy Upgrade California (www.EnergyUpgradeCA.org). To qualify for Flex Package, homeowners must simply install two or more qualifying measures with a combined point-value of 100, or more, using an Energy Upgrade California-participating contractor. The more advanced an improvement, the more points earned. Qualifying Flex Package energy efficiency measures include: replacement of heat pump (85 points); wall insulation (70 points); installation of ENERGY STAR windows (60 points); replacement of central air conditioner (40 points); programmable thermostat (5 points); wrapping/lagging hot water heating pipes (5 points); and installation of efficient lighting fixtures (5 points). "For Alameda County homeowners considering home improvements, the Flex Package is a great reason to incorporate energy-efficiency upgrades at the same time," said Wendy Sommer, Principal Program Manager at StopWaste.Org, the local government agency that is leading Energy Upgrade California in Alameda County. "Flex Package offers homeowners the flexibility to choose the energy improvements that make the most sense for their home and budget and to earn $1,500 in rebates." For more information about Flex Package and a list of Energy Upgrade California-participating contractors, visit www.AlamedaFlex.Org.