Good thing there's help.

The city has launched a Home Energy Makeover Contest, which will award one homeowner up to $5,000 in energy efficiency improvements. Residents who are at least 21 years old and own a home are eligible to enter.

"We're going to choose homes based on their energy usage," said Alana Rivadeneyra, energy efficiency coordinator. "We're going to look at the age and size of their homes."

Improvements could include new insulation, air ducts, light fixtures and possibly solar panels. Five finalists will receive home energy assessments valued at $500.

The contest is aimed to raise awareness of Energy Upgrade California, a state program that brings rebates and incentives to homeowners who install energy-saving upgrades.

Fabian Villenas of the City Manager's Office said the city spearheaded the home makeover contest as part of Healthy RC, the initiative to advocate a healthy body, mind and earth.

"We want to encourage energy efficiency and sustainability in the community," Villenas said. "We thought a contest was a good way to raise awareness."

Qualifications: Rancho Cucamonga homeowners at least 21 years old.

Deadline: Aug. 11

Application: www.CityofRC.us/RCHomeMakeover

Information: 909-477-2700 ext. 2047