If you live in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, or San Bernardino County, there’s a new opportunity to save thousands on a high-efficiency heat pumps through South Coast AQMD’s GO ZERO Incentive Program.
Unlike many programs that require you to reserve funds before installation, GO ZERO allows homeowners to apply for rebates after their project is complete — making the process simple and flexible.
What Is the GO ZERO Incentive Program?
The GO ZERO (Grid Optimized Zero Emissions Residential or Other) program is an initiative from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) designed to help residents replace fossil-fueled appliances with zero-emission electric alternatives.
For homeowners, that includes heat pumps and heat pump water heaters. Some of the most impactful upgrades you can make for reducing both emissions and energy use.
After your installation is complete, you simply submit your rebate application online through the GO ZERO portal along with your invoice, and old and new appliance information. Once approved, you’ll receive your rebate directly — no pre-reservation required - although you can also elect to have your contractor apply and receive it on your behalf.
How Much Can You Get Back?
GO ZERO’s incentive levels vary depending on where your community is located and the specific equipment installed. While the program's funding is first-come first-serve, eligible homeowners can expect significant post-installation incentives that can help offset a large portion of the total cost.
Stackable Rebates — How to Maximize Your Savings
One of the biggest advantages of GO ZERO is that it’s stackable with other programs, meaning you can combine multiple incentives to maximize your total savings.
Here’s how your rebate stack might look for a single-family heat pump water heater project in Southern California:
| Incentive Program | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| TECH Clean California | $2,100-$4,300 | Must be installed by a TECH-Clean CA-participating contractor |
| Home Performance Plus (via CLEAResult) | $800-$1,350 | Additional rebate for energy efficiency upgrades |
| Utility Rebates | $500–$1,500 | Varies by utility: LADWP ($1,500), BWP ($1,500), PWP ($500), GWP ($500), Anaheim Public Utilities ($500) |
| Federal Tax Credit (25C) | $1-$2,000 | 30% of project cost, up to $2,000 per year |
| GO ZERO Rebate (SCAQMD) | $1,000-$2,000 | Post-install rebate applied after project completion |
💡 Stacked together, homeowners can receive more than $10,000 in combined rebates and tax credits, depending on various factors.
Why Heat Pump Water Heaters?
Heat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat rather than create it — making them 3–4 times more efficient than gas models. They’re also safer, quieter, and ready for the clean energy future as California transitions away from natural gas.
If your water heater is more than 8–10 years old or nearing the end of its life, now’s the perfect time to replace it with a high-efficiency electric heat pump model and take advantage of these programs.
How it Works
- Plan your incentives — each incentive has their own set of requirements.
- Install your heat pump water heater through a licensed contractor.
- Keep your receipts and installation documentation.
- Submit your GO ZERO rebate application on the South Coast AQMD website after installation.
Final Thoughts
The GO ZERO program makes it easier than ever to decarbonize your home — no pre-approvals, no complicated reservation steps, and major savings once your project is complete.
Southern California residents now have access to one of the most generous rebate combinations in the country. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to switch to a heat pump and/or heat pump water heater, this is it.
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Team VoltHub
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Visit South Coast AQMD’s GO ZERO portal to get started and claim your post-install rebates.