BayREN Refrigerant Replacement
Refrigerant Replacement

BayREN Refrigerant Replacement (BRRR)

Local food and floral businesses can receive incentives to replace environmentally harmful refrigerants with eco-friendlier options at affordable prices.

How to Participate Interest and Eligibility FAQ's
BRRR Interest Form

REFRIGERANT REPLACEMENT

Small business owners are always seeking ways to reduce overhead costs while benefiting their communities. The BayREN Refrigerant Replacement (BRRR) Program helps Bay Area food and floral businesses reduce greenhouse gas emissions by swapping out harmful refrigerants for more environmentally-friendly alternatives. Additionally, the program installs energy efficient equipment that will help lower utility bills. All this at little to no-cost to the businesses.

How to Participate

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Submit an Interest Form

BayREN will reach out within 5 business days to discuss your eligibility and provide an overview of the program.

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Schedule a Free Equipment Evaluation

We will assess your existing systems and identify energy-efficient upgrade opportunities.

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Receive Start-to-Finish Project Service

From start to finish, we’ll handle the project delivery, ensuring smooth installation and operation.

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Obtain a Free Refrigeration Training

Your staff will receive training to operate and maintain new energy-efficient refrigeration equipment.

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Enjoy More Efficient Refrigeration

Benefit from reliable, upgraded refrigeration while saving energy and cutting down on operational costs.

BRRR Program - Interest & Eligibility

Interest & Eligibility

The BRRR Program recently launched in Solano County!

Want to be the first in line when the program reaches your area? Submit an interest form today to check your eligibility and secure a spot on our interest list. As soon as BRRR becomes available in your county, you’ll be the first to know.

To be eligible, your business must:

  • Be in the food service, food retail or floral sectors.
  • Have at least one operating remote condensing unit, as shown in the photo below. This equipment is typically located in basements, on roofs, or outdoors.
  • Meet geographic criteria. Check your eligibility below.

Please note that upgrades currently underway or already finished do not qualify for the program.

Eligibility Map

BRRR Program FAQ's

What is the BayREN Refrigerant Replacement Program (BRRR)?
BayREN Refrigerant Replacement or BRRR provides funding to help eligible businesses identify and repair refrigerant leaks, replace refrigeration components and systems, improve energy efficiency, and support preventative maintenance. Participation in BRRR can help you save energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and lower your utility bill.
How is it funded?
BRRR is funded by the Public Purpose Program (PPP), a fee on your monthly utility bill. The California Public Utilities Commission authorizes this fee to support programs like BRRR, renewable energy, and low-income energy assistance.
What are the benefits of participating?
Free system evaluation, no-cost essential repairs, efficiency upgrades, improved performance, reduced electricity bills, and avoidance of costly breakdowns and inventory loss.
How soon can I get an evaluation?
Submit an interest form and a BRRR representative will contact you within 5 business days to discuss eligibility and next steps.
Are there any obligations?
No, there are no obligations to move forward after receiving your evaluation.
How long does the project installation take?
Project installation time depends on the project's scope and the contractor’s availability. The contractor will help you schedule a convenient installation time.
Can I use my own contractor to install the refrigeration upgrades?
Yes. You can use your own contractor if they collaborate with program staff, submit their license and insurance information, and attend orientation training.
What happens if my business is not eligible to participate in BRRR?
If your business is not eligible, we will refer you to other programs you may qualify for.
How much support can I qualify for under the BRRR program?
BRRR incentives vary and are capped at $30,000 per project.
Who receives the incentives and how?
Incentives are paid directly to the refrigeration contractor.
Are there any out-of-pocket costs for me?
It depends on the specifics of your project. BRRR has an incentives cap of $30,000 per project. Anything in excess is your responsibility.
Is BayREN a party to the installation proposal for my project?
BRRR is a separate, third-party offering intended to provide financial incentives directly to the refrigeration contractor to reduce – and sometimes eliminate – any cost to your business.

Please note that the agreement for goods and/or services provided in connection with this project is solely between you and your refrigeration contractor. All project costs, payments, promised rebates or other financial incentives, responsibilities, and outcomes are the exclusive responsibility of the Customer and contractor.

We do not endorse, warrant, or guarantee the quality, performance, or conduct of any contractor, including their subcontractors, nor do we accept any liability or responsibility for cost overruns, delays, workmanship issues, contract disputes, breach of contract, or any other damages or grievances arising from the Contractor–Customer relationship. We encourage you to carefully vet your contractor before hiring.
If I have questions during installation, or I am not happy with my refrigeration contractor, who can I contact?
Please email env-bayrenbpa@sfgov.org and we will respond to your inquiry within one (1) business day.