(a)
The rebates provided through this program shall decline over time. They shall be structured so as to drive down the cost of the solar water heating technologies, and be paid out on a performance-based incentive basis so that incentives are earned based on the actual energy savings, or on predicted energy savings as established by the commission.
(b)
The commission shall consider federal tax credits and other incentives available for this technology
when determining the appropriate rebate amount.
(c)
The commission shall consider the impact of rebates for solar water heating systems pursuant to this article on existing incentive programs for energy efficiency technology.
(d)
In coordination with the commission, the Energy Commission shall consider, when appropriate, coupling rebates for solar water heating systems with complementary energy efficiency technologies, including, but not limited to, efficient hot water heating tanks and tankless or on demand hot water systems that can be installed in addition to the solar water heating system.