Moraga homeowners who meet income guidelines can get insulation, ductwork and other energy efficiency upgrades with 80% of the cost covered through a regional program.

The Town of Moraga announced the BayREN EASE Home Program in a civic alert on Sept. 17. The program, run by the Bay Area Regional Energy Network and funded by utility ratepayer funds through the California Public Utilities Commission, pays for most of the cost of weatherization and efficiency improvements for qualifying households.

Average projects run $5,000 to $7,000. BayREN covers 80%, leaving homeowners responsible for the remaining 20%. Upgrades are installed by program contractors and backed by a one-year warranty.

Who qualifies

Eligibility requirements, listed on BayREN's program page, include four conditions. Applicants must live in a single-family home of four or fewer units built before 2010. They must be PG&E customers. Household income must fall at or below 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI). And the project must include at least one weatherization measure such as insulation, duct sealing or duct replacement.

Renters in qualifying homes may also apply with their property owner's permission.

What the program covers

Eligible upgrades fall into several categories: weatherization work like insulation, duct sealing and whole-home air sealing; efficiency improvements such as smart thermostats and weatherstripping; and induction cooking upgrades, including stoves and cooktops that replace gas appliances.

A limited-time rebate of up to $2,000 is available in 2026 for participants who need to replace active knob-and-tube wiring before efficiency work can proceed.

How to apply

The process has four steps: check eligibility and submit an application, complete a free in-home visit with an energy advisor who provides personalized recommendations, have a matched contractor handle installation, then pay the 20% co-payment after the work is done.

Residents can apply on BayREN's program page. Questions can be directed to the Contra Costa County Energy Team at [email protected].