Perhaps you could use solar to preheat your incoming water before the water heater. Depending on your average attic temperature and time of water usage a 50' roll of copper in your attic might be enough to harness some solar. You mentioned not replumbing the house and most folks consider it a liability...but if you have the attic space, move the water heater to the attic directly above its current location. you will also gain a closet.
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