How FIRST Works
Residential and commercial property owners in Berkeley can finance new solar photovoltaic systems using the FIRST program in conjunction with the CSI rebateThe California Solar Initiative (CSI) Rebate Reservation Letter is issued by the utility company in your coverage area. In the letter, they will estimate your initial incentive amount. Your installer in most cases will assist you in applying for the rebate and will provide you with the reservation letter. program. BerkeleyFIRST allows property owners to repay the cost of the solar system through a voluntary tax increment on their property tax bill. The City of Berkeley application process is currently closed.
Program Process
If you are approved, the City pays the installation cost of your new solar system. In turn, the City adds a line item to your property tax bill sufficient to repay the cost of the energy project plus interest over 20 years. If you sell your house, both the solar system and the remaining debt stay with the property.
BerkeleyFIRST Application, Funding and Repayment Process
You apply for a funding reservation as part of the FIRST program and are approved. The application takes about five minutes to complete.
You have 270 days from the date of approval to complete your project and request funding.
You request your funding amount on-line. You can receive 100% of the cost of your system after the state rebate amount, up to $37,500. When you request funding, you will be asked to provide documentation along with a signed consent form for the special property tax levy and filing of the special tax lien on the property.
The City places a lien on your property for the exact amount necessary each year to repay the cost of your project.
You are issued a check for the amount requested.
You (and any future owners of your property) pay for the solar system over the next 20 years. This repayment is made semiannually through an addition to your property tax.
The Benefits of BerkeleyFIRST
- Little to no upfront cost for your solar system
- You choose your solar installers
- Easy repayment as part of your bi-annual property tax bill
- Fixed interest rate for the entire 20-year period
- The repayment obligation stays with your house if you sell
Installing a solar system on your roof is a significant investment that you should investigate carefully. Not every building is a good candidate for solar, nor will it be cost-effective for every building. We strongly recommend you meet with several registered CSI contractors and receive estimates prior to committing to the FIRST program. Please see our resources section for more information on solar installation.