For many rural Northern California communities, accessing energy efficiency programs hasn’t always been easy. Geographic distance, limited contractor availability, and fewer local resources can leave residents, businesses, and public agencies without the same opportunities available in larger urban areas.

That is why the Northern Rural Energy Network (NREN) was created.

Serving 17 counties across the North Coast, Lake County, and the Sierra Nevada region, NREN brings high-quality energy efficiency programs directly to the communities that need them most. Through a partnership between Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA), Lake Area Planning Council (LAPC), Mendocino Council of Governments (MCOG), and Sierra Business Council (SBC), NREN combines regional knowledge with technical expertise and trusted local relationships.

Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, NREN meets customers where they are. Whether someone wants simple ways to save energy at home, is planning a major upgrade, or needs technical expertise for a public facility, NREN makes energy efficiency more accessible, affordable, and easier to navigate.

Helping Communities Save Energy

Energy efficiency is about more than lowering utility bills. Efficient homes, businesses, and public buildings can be more comfortable, reliable, and affordable to operate while supporting local economies and building community resilience.

NREN programs help remove common barriers to energy efficiency by offering:

• Free energy assessments
• Technical assistance and personalized guidance
• Energy-saving products and educational resources
• Rebates and financial incentives
• Project planning support
• Connections with qualified participating contractors

By simplifying the process and providing trusted local assistance, NREN helps customers move from interest to action with confidence.

Serving Every Part of the Community

NREN supports a wide range of customers:

Residents can receive personalized recommendations, energy-saving resources, and rebates for home improvement.

Businesses can identify opportunities to reduce operating costs through more efficient equipment and building upgrades.

Public agencies can evaluate facilities, prioritize projects, identify funding opportunities, and implement improvements that benefit their communities.

Contractors can access training, program participation opportunities, and connections with customers seeking qualified professionals.

Our Impact and What’s Next

Since launching its first programs in April 2025, NREN has worked alongside thousands of residents, businesses, public agencies, and community partners across rural Northern California. Every assessment, rebate, and completed project represents progress toward lower energy costs, improved comfort, and stronger, more resilient, communities.

What we’ve accomplished since launch:

(Infographic: NREN program metrics to date. See our 2025 Annual Report here.)

As energy needs evolve, NREN is expanding its services. Upcoming programs include Commercial Direct Install, Commercial Energy Assessments, and Residential Direct Install, along with expanded opportunities for contractors to participate in on-site assessments and energy-saving projects.

Together, NREN and its partners are helping build a more energy-efficient, affordable, and resilient future for rural Northern California.