What is Energy Savings Assistance Program (ESA)?
Are You Eligible for Free Appliances?
The Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) program is designed to help you conserve energy and save money. Income-qualified customers may be eligible to receive energy-efficient appliances at no charge or at a minimal charge. If you qualify, we’ll cover the costs of new energy-efficient appliances—including installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I participate in this program if I rent my home?
Yes. The ESA program is available to both homeowners and renters. Renters may be required to obtain the property owner’s written permission before certain measures and services are delivered.
For renters/tenants, the legal property owner or authorized agent must sign the Property Owner Authorization form.
Can I participate in the ESA program if I live in an apartment, condo, or other multifamily building?
If your building has 5 or more dwelling units and each unit shares either a common wall, ceiling, or floor with another dwelling unit, you may be eligible to participate in the Multifamily Whole Building program. To learn more and apply, contact the program implementer at 1-866-211-3335
Or
Do I have to pay anything to participate in this program?
Participation in the ESA program is FREE to both renters and homeowners.
Rental Applicants and Co-Payments for Some Services
A co-payment from the property owner or landlord may be required if the applicant is a renter/tenant. This co-payment is only required for central air conditioners and/or heat pumps, where it is assumed that the property owner owns the appliance. Note: Central air conditioners and heat pumps are not available in all geographic regions.
As a renter, are there “talking points” to help facilitate a conversation with a property owner about participating in this program?
Yes. Here is information you can share with the property owner when discussing the ESA program.
Advantages of Program Participation for Property Owners and Tenants:
- Potentially lower energy costs for both you and your tenants
- Help improve the safety of your property within your tenants’ homes
- Increase your tenant comfort and satisfaction
What type of proof is required to verify home ownership?
Proof of property ownership is required, and can include, but is not limited to:
- Current loan or mortgage documents
- Property tax records or bills
- Homeowner property and/or fire insurance
- Mortgage payment invoices or book
- Current Mobile Home Registration from Department of Housing and Community Development
- Data Quick or similar title search service papers
How can I verify if the field employee is approved by SCE?
Employees of contracted service providers certified to represent the ESA program must present a valid, SCE-assigned badge containing the following information:
On the front of the badge:
- Picture and name of the employee
- Name of the service provider
- Badge number
On the back of the badge:
- Name and contact information for the field personnel’s employer (service provider)
- SCE’s toll-free number
- Mailing address so that the badge may be returned to SCE if it is lost or damaged
Customers with concerns about the field employee’s identity or with general questions about the visit may call (800) 736-4777 to speak to an SCE representative. The representative will be able to verify the field employee’s identity and if the employee is certified to represent the ESA program.
Can I get money back if I do the work myself?
No. Work must be done by the SCE-approved contractors who are trained to work for the ESA program.
Does an appliance I receive through the ESA program come with a warranty?
Yes. We offer a two-year warranty on parts and labor and a one-year warranty on the installation. Refer to the documents provided after the installation of the appliance(s). They will contain the phone number to call regarding any warranty issues.
What if I don’t qualify for the ESA program?
If you do not meet the requirements to participate in the ESA program, you may still be able to take advantage of one of our other energy efficiency programs.
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