Jan Klein, Conservation Coordinator                

SMEU_Info@sanmarcostx.gov

512.393.8310

Whether you are interested in making small changes, or large ones, the City is here to help.  We offer a variety of programs and information to help you achieve your energy conservation goals:

• Free Energy Audits

• Energy Efficient Home Heating/AC Rebate Program

• Distributed Generation Rebate Program

• Links/Resources

Free Energy Audits

Through the Free Energy Audit program, the City of San Marcos provides electric utility customers with customized recommendations on how to reduce energy consumption and associated utility costs. The energy audit includes an evaluation of:

• Heating/AC equipment and ductwork,

• Ventilation systems,

• Energy using appliances,

• Insulation,

• Windows and doors,

• And more.

To schedule your Free Energy Audit, contact the San Marcos Electric Utility at (512) 393-8308 or via e-mail.

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Energy Efficient Home Rebate Program

The City of San Marcos offers rebates for energy efficient heating and AC upgrades including HVAC systems, attic/wall insulation, duct sealing/replacement, radiant barrier, windows and doors, solar window film and screen, and window AC units. The program is open to City of San Marcos residential electric utility customers. For more information:

Energy Efficient Home Rebate Program Brochure

Here's how it works:

1. Customer contacts the City to schedule a free energy audit.  During the audit, city staff will evaluate existing HVAC equipment, insulation types/levels, duct leakage, and windows/doors.  Staff will make recommendations, and provide information on rebate programs. 

2. Customer purchases qualified products and has them installed. 

3. Within 90 days after purchase, customer submits application along with dated and itemized sales receipts.  

4. COSM conducts follow-up inspection to verify products have been properly installed.

5. Rebate check is issued to customer.

Energy Efficient Home Rebate Application/Guidelines

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Distributed Generation Rebate Program

The City of San Marcos Distributed Generation Rebate Program encourages installation of grid-tied renewable energy systems such as solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind systems.  The Distributed Generation Rebate Program is open to all City of San Marcos electric utility customers with an account in good standing. For more information:

Distributed Generation Rebate Program Flyer

Renewable Energy Ordinance

Here's how it works:

1. Customer contacts the City of San Marcos Electric Utility to schedule a free energy audit and renewable energy inspection.  City staff will provide an audit report detailing recommended measures for that location.  

2. Customer chooses a qualifying renewable energy contractor.  Solar contractors must employ at least one staff member certified as a PV Installer by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (www.nabcep.org) or that has completed the initial NABCEP certification training and is actively working towards completing their certification.  All contractors must be registered with the City of San Marcos Permit Center. 
3. Contractor submits permit packet to the City of San Marcos Permit Center.  Permit packet must include: completed permit application form, site layout/diagram showing proposed installation, one-line electrical diagram, equipment manufacturer specification sheets, and signed interconnection agreement.
4. City staff will review permit application.  Upon approval and issuance of a permit, the contractor may proceed with installation. 
5. After project is completed, contractor contacts the Permit Center to schedule the final inspection. 
6. Within 30 days after final inspection/approval, customer submits completed rebate application along with paid invoices and warranty information to the San Marcos Electric Utility.
7. City staff will review rebate application.  Upon approval, rebate check will be mailed to customer.  Rebate checks are generally sent within 4-6 weeks after application is received.  

Distributed Generation Rebate Application/Guidelines

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Links/Resources

• EnergyStar

• Consortium for Energy Efficiency

• US Department of Energy

• Estimating Appliance and Home Electronic Energy Use

• Home Energy Saver Online Energy Audit

• Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency

• Infinite Power - Texas State Energy Conservation Office

• DOE Renewable Energy

• American Wind Energy Association

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