(California) Bill offers affordable way to be energy-efficient

January 10, 2008

Bill offers affordable way to be energy-efficient

By K Kaufmann
Palm Desert Sun

Palm Desert entered the high-stakes arena of Sacramento politics Monday as its bill to create affordable financing options for energy-efficient home improvements hit the state Assembly floor.

The bill would allow cities throughout California to set up programs connecting residents with low-interest loans for energy-efficient air conditioners, solar panels and other power-stingy home upgrades, with a long-term payback period linked to property tax rolls.

City officials are hoping to pull off the difficult, but not impossible feat of getting the bill to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's desk by spring. Palm Desert could then have its program up and running by summer, said Councilman Jim Ferguson.

"We're taking on the challenge because for the last 15 years every city in this valley has tried to reduce the exorbitant energy costs residents endure," said Ferguson, the city's point man on the initiative.

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