Rebates: what's different in Orinda
| Orinda | Moraga / Lafayette | |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity provider | PG&E bundled | MCE |
| MCE heat pump HVAC rebate | Not available | Up to $400 per 500 sq ft |
| MCE heat pump water heater rebate | Not available | Up to $675 |
| TECH, BayREN 2026, federal 25C | Closed / subscribed / ended | Closed / subscribed / ended |
As of October 4, 2026. Sources: MCE membership, MCE rebates. Check BayREN and PG&E for new offers.
Hillside, wooded lots
- Flat, stable spots for the outdoor unit can be scarce; wall brackets or a pad on a cut slope are common
- Leaves and debris from oaks and bays collect around outdoor coils, so leave clearance and plan for cleaning
- Long line-set routes around steep yards add cost; ask where the unit will go and why
- Many homes date to about 1960 (Census median), with ducts in crawlspaces that should be tested before reuse
Permits
Confirm the permit path with the City of Orinda before work begins; your contractor should pull the permit and schedule the Title 24 duct test and ECC-Rater verification.
Systems that fit
Mini-splits
Good for homes without ducts and for rooms the central system misses. Mini-splits
Ducted conversion
Replace furnace + AC with one heat pump if the ducts test well. Is it right for my home?
Orinda questions
Can Orinda homeowners get the MCE heat pump rebate?
No. Orinda is not an MCE member city; it is served by PG&E bundled service, so MCE rebates don't apply. Neighboring Moraga and Lafayette are MCE cities.
Are there other heat pump rebates for Orinda?
As of October 4, 2026, TECH Clean California and BayREN's 2026 funding are subscribed and the federal 25C credit has ended. Check BayREN and PG&E for new offers before you sign.