Regional energy network work plan accepted; programs to boost home energy rebates, commercial retrofits and workforce training

The Mendocino Council of Governments unanimously accepted the Northern Rural Energy Network (NREN) fiscal‑year 2627 work plan on June 1, authorizing staff to proceed with program implementation and outreach.

Orion, who presented the report, said the work plan is organized into six program categories: a residential Home Energy Advisors program that will do outreach and perform home consultations; a rebate program for residential heat pumps and appliances; commercial energy services for larger projects, including contractor‑led lighting and heat‑pump water‑heater installs; a finance program exploring a regionwide loan model implemented via local Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs); public‑sector energy services for governments and schools; and an energy career education and training (ESET) program that will run contractor trainings and workforce development efforts.

Staff highlighted recent outreach events across the county, completion of an RFP for a direct‑install contractor for lighting and heat pump water heaters, an anticipated increase in rebate levels and marketing, and the forthcoming addition of a program specialist and a CivicSpark intern to support outreach and assessments.

Members of the public and board complimented staff on expanded training and code‑compliance outreach. The board voted to accept the work plan; no budget appropriation was required at the acceptance step.

Implementation notes: staff will proceed with marketing, launch of home assessments and rebate outreach, contracting for direct installs, and continued work with local CDFIs to design a loan pilot.