The House as a System

Applying basic building science to the “House as a System” is how we assist you to have the safe, comfortable, resource efficient and durable home you want.  We do this using Home Performance Evaluations, Energy Conservation Analysis, GreenPoint Rating, and HERS Field Diagnostic Testing services.

The HERS Rating Survey
Sonoma County Energy Independence Program staff recommend that all property owners planning to use SCEIP financing for renewable energy or energy efficiency upgrade projects first obtain a survey by a HERS rater to determine the best opportunities for energy efficiency and water conservation upgrades.  Rick’s Energy Solutions is trained, experienced and ready to provide HERS rating services to you for your SCEIP loan application.

The GreenPoint Rating Checklist for Building Plans
Green building has become main stream in most of the communities in Marin and Sonoma Counties.  In these communities building permit applicants must submit GreenPoint Rating Checklists on their building plans demonstrating that their building will be built to exceed minimum building code standards for energy conservation, water conservation, indoor air quality, resource conservation and building durability.  Rick’s Energy Solutions will review your plans, prepare the documents and verify in the field that you are complying with these requirements.

Qualifying for Available Tax Credits and Incentives
Utility rebates, income tax credits, Energy Star labels, energy conservation forms for building permits and green building applications all require complex and unfriendly documentation to be submitted by the applicants. Rick’s Energy Solutions specializes in the preparation of building energy analysis documents to be used to determine eligibility for these incentive programs.  We also prepare for you the GreenPoint Rated documentation required for an application to Build It Green or to your local building department when required for your permit.

Qualifying Experience

Thirty five years experience in the construction industry in a variety of positions makes our principal, Rick Cowperthwaite very well suited to advise you how to reduce your energy costs and improve the comfort and environmental qualities of your home or small office building.  The North Bay Region of Northern California including Marin, Sonoma, Napa, Solano, Mendocino and Lake Counties are all within our service area.