The Yolo Energy Partnership (YEP) is a county-led initiative designed to expand energy efficiency, electrification, and resilience across unincorporated Yolo County. Developed by the Yolo County Sustainability Division, YEP is part of the county’s effort to meet its carbon-negative by 2030 goal while prioritizing equity and environmental justice.

With the adoption of the 2030 Climate Action & Adaptation Plan (CAAP), Yolo County has committed to
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preparing communities for climate impacts. As part of this effort, the Yolo County Climate Action Commission (YCCAC) identified Early Action Projects to deliver immediate benefits—YEP being one of them.

YEP is a collaborative effort between Yolo County, Valley Clean Energy (VCE), Cool Davis, De Colores Resource Center, Earth Advantage, and Archon Energy Solutions. These partnerships ensure that YEP provides technical expertise, financial support, and trusted community engagement, reaching the residents who need it most.

A Multi-Pronged Approach to Energy Efficiency

YEP offers a suite of energy programs designed to address common barriers to home efficiency and electrification, particularly for low-income residents, renters, and agricultural workers.

1. Home Energy Score (HES) Pilot Program

Up to 50 free home energy assessments that provide homeowners with a personalized Home Energy Score report and recommendations for cost-saving upgrades. This program is designed to help residents identify cost-effective upgrades and leverage available rebates and financing.

2. Weatherization Program

Aimed at reducing energy waste and improving home comfort, this program provides up to 300 free weatherization kits with LED bulbs, window insulation, weatherstripping, and power strips. These upgrades help residents lower utility bills while making homes more energy-efficient.

3. Electric Advisor Program

A full-service help center service operated by Valley Clean Energy (VCE) offering personalized guidance on energy rebates, electrification incentives, and efficient energy use. Residents receive expert advice on transitioning to electric appliances, heat pumps, and energy-efficient HVAC systems and hands-no support with filing out rebate applications.

4. Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation (OOHR) Program

Provides low interest deferred loans for essential home repairs and energy efficiency improvements, ensuring long-term benefits for residents.

The Role of Community-Based Partnerships

One of YEP’s most valuable strengths is its partnership with local Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), ensuring that outreach is culturally relevant, bilingual, and accessible to underserved populations.

•  Cool Davis focuses on electrification education and community outreach, supporting residents in navigating the transition to clean energy solutions.
• De Colores Resource Center specializes in equity-driven outreach, ensuring that Latinx and agricultural worker communities are informed about energy efficiency, housing, and social
  services.

Through these partnerships, YEP fosters long-term engagement, trust, and program success, creating a self-sustaining model for equitable energy transition.

Looking Ahead

YEP is just the beginning. The next phase includes expanding electrification education, resilience hubs, and workforce development, ensuring that Yolo County communities are prepared for power outages and climate-related disruptions.

By investing in community-driven, equitable energy programs, Yolo County is proving that local action can drive state and national climate goals forward—one home at a time.