The Tree Power Shade Tree Rebate Program is a year-round program where Riverside Public Utilities’ (RPU) electric customers can purchase up to 5 shade trees per calendar year from a participating Riverside nursery and receive a rebate of $35 per tree. Sales tax, delivery or installation fees, and other associated costs are not considered part of the total purchase price. Rebates are credited to the customer’s utility bill. (some restrictions apply).
What do I need to do? Go to a participating nursery and purchase up to five (5) qualifying trees. Plant the trees on your property only, then complete the Tree Power Rebate Program application. Mail the application and all applicable tree receipts to:
Riverside Public Utilities Programs & Services 3025 Madison St., Riverside, CA 92501
Every year through our Tree Power program, we hold the annual Free Shade Tree Campaign that starts March 1st and last until June 30th. The Coupon for a free shade tree is redeemable at a participating retailer (listed below) and is good for one (1) free shade tree up to $35 in value (the back of your March RPU utility bill is "the coupon").
What do I need to do? RPU electric customers can take their March utility bill to one of the participating nurseries listed below and leave with a qualifying free tree. It’s that simple!
NOTE: Redemption value of free tree not to exceed $35. Customers purchasing trees more than $35 must pay additional cost. Plant trees 10 to 35 feet from your home, preferably on the south or west side. Dwarf trees, palms, and citrus trees are not eligible for this program.
Why plant trees? Trees planted around a home can reduce cooling costs by as much as 20%. In addition to saving energy, here are some other benefits trees offer:
Tree Power Program Qualifying Trees (for both programs):
(Dwarf trees, palms, and citrus trees do not qualify) * Additional trees may qualify. Please call 951-826-5485 for details.
For complete information on tree species, please visit the Urban Forest Ecosystems Institute and get valuable information on many species of shade trees. Riverside Public Utilities does not guarantee the accuracy of the data and information derived from the UFEI website. This link is provided for informational purposes only.
Don’t Forget the Mulch!
Laying 2-4 inches of mulch in a 3-foot circle around the tree helps retain moisture, reducing water needs and protecting your tree. Be sure to keep mulch away from the trunk.
When Watering, Prioritize Your Trees
Remember, trees are an investment. It will take more water, time, and money to replace a mature tree lost to drought than to keep one alive.
The easiest way to tell if a tree needs water is to use a long screwdriver and poke the soil. The screwdriver will pass easily into moist soil but will be difficult to push into dry soil. If you can't poke it in at least 6", it's time to water.
Soak Slowly to Avoid Run-Off
Watering faster than soil can absorb it leads to runoff and waste. Long, slow soaking allows water to go deeper. Place the watering system above the tree if on a slope, so water flows and soaks around the tree (but not close to the trunk). Use a hose timer so you don't leave the hose on.
Avoid pruning or fertilizing trees during dry seasons. Lack of water and too much pruning both stress your trees. Fertilizer encourages leafy growth, but the tree will require more water.
Submit your completed and signed application, proof-of-purchase and other supporting documentation as required, within 90 days of the purchase date and in accordance with program guidelines to:
Mail: Riverside Public Utilities – Programs & Services 3025 Madison St. Riverside, CA 92504
*Once you have submitted your rebate via email, there is no need to submit a paper form.