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CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATION A critical element in the program (for participants) is identifying qualified contractors. To that end, staff contacted all Tri-valley contractors with a current (general contractor, insulation, or HVAC) business license and invited them to attend a contractor networking forum. The purpose of this event was to inform local contractors about the EUC program, explain what they need to do to become an EUC-qualified contractor, and to allow them to meet other qualified/non-qualified contractors interested in working on these types of projects. Forty two contractors attended the event on October 11, 2011 at the Operations Service Center. Residents and businesses may choose any licensed contractor to perform these upgrades and be eligible for City incentives; however, in order to be eligible for the EUC rebates, a contractor must be prequalified with PG&E. ADDITIONAL FINANCING OPPORTUNITIES As indicated previously, financing for home owners and businesses is available through the EUC program and many of its contractors, including income-qualified programs through California Home Finance (CHF). CHF is offering 3% loans for 15 year terms, and also provides up to $1,250 as a grant to qualifying applicants. Through the Solar Alliance Program, our solar partner offers three programs to participants (regular loan, equity line, or lease), that offer competitive rates and terms, no money down, easy qualification (FICO score of 700 or higher) and still qualify for all of the rebates offered. The lease option provides a cash-positive investment immediately. MARKETING & LEVERAGING PARTNERSHIPS Staff is currently working to establish public and private partnerships to leverage resources and promote the EUP program. Listed below are various efforts related to this effort: • Three California cities were selected by the California Energy Commission to participate in a targeted marketing campaign for the EUC program: Stockton, Pleasanton, and Dublin (the Stockton campaign has been completed). Staff is working closely with a team of state, county and local agencies to market the EUC program as a 'Tri-Valley" campaign. • The Energy & Environment Committee outreach programs will educate and market the EUP program at events like the Green Fair and the Pleasanton Green Scene Website. • We will work with the Chamber of Commerce and business organizations such as Pleasanton Downtown Association, Hacienda Business Park and others to promote the commercial program. • The Bay East Realtors Association and individual realtors will offer upgrade information to new home owners in conjunction with our program. Page 5 of 6