Power Saver™ Program
Solar Photovoltaics—Energy Efficiency Requirements

Existing Homes
Homes constructed prior to January 1, 2009

• Existing homes must meet the following energy-efficiency requirements:
  Air and Duct System
  • Tests must show comprehensive air seal testing must be less than .45 air change per hour.
  • Tests must show duct system leakage to be less than or equal to 10%.
  Windows and Doors
  • All sun-facing windows and glass doors receiving at least one hour of direct sunlight in the summer on 40% or more of the glass area must have solar screens or window treatments.
  Attic Insulation
  • Must have a rated value of no less than R-22.
  Water Heaters
  • All homes that use an electric water heater are required to have an Austin Energy issued water heater timer installed.
  • If the home uses an electric water heater and has three bedrooms or more, it is required to install a rebated solar hot water system in accordance with the Solar Hot Water Rebate Program Guidelines or an ENERGY STAR ® qualified water heater with an Austin Energy approved water heater timer.
    
  Exemptions
  • Homes that have received a three-star or higher rating from Austin Energy Green Building using version 8.0 (January 1, 2008) or higher of the rating. Allowable water heaters must meet the requirements above.
  • New homes (constructed after January 1, 2009) that comply with the Texas Climate Vision Code. The home’s calculated energy performance must exceed 10% of the current Austin Energy Code and allowable water heaters must meet the requirements above.
  • Homes that have received a Home Performance with ENERGY STAR certificate (all measures meet requirement) within the past 10 years and allowable water heaters meet the requirements above.

Thank you for your interest in our Power Saver Program. Please note you can apply for both a loan and a rebate.

• A refund shall become due and payable to Austin Energy if the customer fails to ensure Austin Energy that the rebated equipment is properly maintained and operated at an metered address.
• The refund will be calculated by reducing the rebate paid by 20% per year for each of the five years following final inspection and approval. (The first 20% reduction will occur on the anniversary date of rebate payment.)

Power Saver™ Program—Saving Energy Together