A new Redding Redevelopment Agency loan program has just been made available to help you improve your home's energy efficiency. (Translation: Lower your utility bills!)
Eligible homeowners must have an annual household income between 81% and 120% of the current area median. (See chart below)
| 1 | $31,251 | $46,850 |
| 2 | $35,701 | $53,550 |
| 3 | $40,201 | $60,250 |
| 4 | $44,651 | $66,950 |
| 5 | $48,201 | $72,300 |
| 6 | $51,801 | $77,650 |
The maximum loan is $25,000 with a maximum term of 15 years at 1% interest. Repayment of both principal and interest is deferred for the term of the loan, or earlier upon sale of the home or if the home is no longer the principal residence of the loan recipient. A deed of trust will be recorded against the property. Please refer to the Program Rules and Procedures for additional information.
You can choose to utilize the Be WISE! loan two ways:
Option 1: A Be WISE! loan may pay for home improvements such as window replacement; appliance upgrades (limited to 50% of the total loan); enhanced insulation; replacement of heating and air conditioning units; replacement of water heaters; and installation of solar equipment, all focused on improving the home's energy efficiency. It is anticipated that the loan recipient homeowner will utilize a building contractor and/or a variety of subcontractors in the community to accomplish the specific improvements selected. Redevelopment and/or Housing Division staff will assist in creating a scope of work and with contractor selection.
Option 2: A Be WISE! loan may be used to pay for costs associated with participating in the Redding Electric Utility's (REU) new Home Performance Program (HPP). The HPP is a specialized program designed to provide participants with a professional evaluation of their home's current energy usage and to assist with costs related to addressing inefficiencies relative to the home's attic thermal envelope. Typical repairs include air sealing of the home's ceiling top plate; improving attic insulation; replacement of older heating and air conditioning units; and repair/sealing of all duct systems. It is estimated that up to 60% of a home's heated air can be lost before it reaches the register if the home's ducts are not insulated and travel through unheated/underinsulated spaces such as the attic. REU has entered into service contracts with a number of local contractors and subcontractors who have completed specialized training through the Shasta Builders' Exchange and who will perform all HPP work.
The U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy has developed a free guidebook for homeowners that provides valuable tips on saving energy in your home. It also may help you to determine which option is best for you. To access the publication, please click on this link:
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/tips/pdfs/energy_savers.pdf
The Be WISE! Deferred Loan Program is available for a limited time. Don't miss out, act now!
To apply for a Be WISE! loan, please print, complete, and return the Program Application. Please contact Mark Christ, Housing Specialist at (530) 245-7136 or by email at mchrist@ci.redding.ca.us if you have any questions.
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