‘Several States to Offer Millions in Homeowner Rebates by September’
TL/DR –
A number of US states plan to use federal funds from the Inflation Reduction Act to offer rebates to homeowners who upgrade their homes for energy efficiency. New York is the first state to roll out such a program, offering $14,000 to homeowners for energy-efficiency projects, and several more states are expected to follow. Not only do these upgrades save homeowners money and reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources, but they also contribute to efforts in reducing planet-heating pollution.
US States to Offer Homeowner Rebates for Energy-Efficiency Upgrades
Several states are preparing to use funds from the Inflation Reduction Act to offer homeowner rebates for energy-efficiency upgrades. New York, the first state to gain funding approval, has launched a program offering $14,000 for such upgrades. It is expected that more states will follow suit by summer’s end.
The funding is part of two Home Energy Rebates programs within the IRA designed to help homeowners offset the costs of energy-efficient upgrades. The first set of rebates in New York is under the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates program, which aids lower and middle-income homeowners. Qualifying purchases include air sealing, insulation, ventilation, electrical upgrades, heat pump water heaters, and other heat pumps.
The Importance of Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Building energy-efficient homes not only saves serious cash with the rebates but also reduces our reliance on dirty fuels. Replacing a regular water heater with a heat pump water heater could save $550 annually. Furthermore, dirty fuels account for over 75% of the planet-heating pollution. Failing to counter this could lead to severe droughts and extreme heat waves.
Global Efforts to Reduce Planet-Warming Pollution
Legislative efforts like the IRA are part of a global initiative to reduce planet-warming pollution. Countries, states, and cities are making strides towards this goal. For example, India is installing solar panels over canals to increase clean energy access, while New York plans for all Lyft and Uber cars to be electric vehicles by 2030.
Even if you’re not in New York, you can still benefit from IRA tax breaks and credits. Rewiring America offers free tools and resources to make home upgrading cheaper. Changing your transportation and investment strategy can also help reduce dependence on dirty energy.
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