State Program Funds HVAC Workers
TL/DR –
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has initiated a program called Penn Heat Pump Pathways to train HVAC workers to install energy-efficient heat pumps. This program is funded by a $4.9 million U.S. Department of Energy grant and aims to support energy-efficiency improvements in over 10,000 homes across the state. Participants who successfully complete the program may become eligible to participate as qualified contractors in the Penn Energy Savers Program, designed to help low- and moderate-income households purchase and install energy-efficient appliances, with potential rebates of up to $14,000 toward qualified equipment and installation costs.
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DEP Unveils Innovative Program to Upskill HVAC Workers and Promote Energy Efficiency
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is spearheading a pioneering statewide initiative known as Penn Heat Pump Pathways. The program aims to train HVAC workers in the installation of energy-efficient heat pumps.
This initiative, financed by a generous $4.9 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, is set to bolster Pennsylvania’s workforce for the rising demand in energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. It is also a move that aligns with the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to providing more access to skilled trades and fostering career growth. On completion, the program is set to contribute to energy efficiency in over 10,000 homes across the Commonwealth.
DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley stated, “Governor Shapiro has made investing in Pennsylvania’s workforce a top priority because we know creating more opportunities for workers strengthens our economy and helps families succeed. Penn Heat Pump Pathways will prepare Pennsylvanians for good-paying careers while helping homeowners reduce energy costs through high-quality, energy-efficient installations.”
Over the past three years, Governor Shapiro has positioned workforce development at the heart of his economic vision. The Commonwealth has witnessed a significant increase in funding for apprenticeship programs and career and technical education by over 50 percent — from $118 million to $183 million. It has also registered 266 new pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, enrolling over 20,000 new apprentices across Pennsylvania.
Training, Support, and Opportunity: The Three Pillars of the Program
The Home Performance Coalition administers the program, which zeroes in on three crucial areas: training, support, and opportunity. Training providers will offer approved heat pump instruction for those entering the HVAC industry and experienced technicians seeking to broaden their skills. Employers can leverage the program to upskill their workforce and recruit freshly trained staff.
Participants who qualify may receive support encompassing paid training costs, wraparound services, and career resources. In collaboration with employers, the program will link new workers with apprenticeships, job placement prospects, and career counseling.
The DEP’s Energy Programs Office received the $4.9 million Training for Residential Energy Contractors (TREC) grant from the U.S. Department of Energy via the Inflation Reduction Act. This established the program and marked Pennsylvania as the first state to receive TREC funding. Since receiving the award, DEP has collaborated with the Home Performance Coalition to create Penn Heat Pump Pathways and expand existing heat pump training opportunities across Pennsylvania.
Qualified Contractors: A Path to Participation in the Penn Energy Savers Program
Workers and employers who successfully complete the program may earn eligibility to participate as qualified contractors in the Penn Energy Savers Program. This initiative aims to assist eligible low- and moderate-income households in purchasing and installing energy-efficient appliances, such as heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, electric stoves, and heat pump clothes dryers. It also covers electrical and insulation upgrades. Households that qualify could receive rebates of up to $14,000 towards qualified equipment, materials and installation costs. More details about the proposed program, eligibility and the percentage of the project covered by the rebate are available on the Penn Energy Savers website.
Through the expansion of specialized HVAC training, Penn Heat Pump Pathways is on track to meet rising industry demand, bolster Pennsylvania’s skilled workforce, and offer more homeowners the benefits of energy-saving technologies that reduce utility costs.
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