New York launches home energy rebate program
New York has become the first state in the nation to launch the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Home Energy Rebates program.
The program will allow more low-and-middle income families to take advantage of efficiency and clean energy upgrades.
It is part of a nationwide initiative, created through the Inflation Reduction Act, to provide $8.8 billion in Federal funding for states, territories, and Tribes to lower energy costs and increase efficiency. These energy saving measures are expected to save consumers up to $1 billion annually in energy costs and support an estimated 50,000 U.S. jobs in residential construction, manufacturing, and other sectors.
“From tax credits to rebates, the Biden-Harris Administration is determined to lower costs for American families and change the economics of home energy bills,” U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said. “New York is leading the charge as states across the country gear up to launch their Home Energy Rebates program—delivering jobs, savings, and healthier homes.”
New York is launching the first phase of its $158 million Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) program. The first phase of New York’s program will also support homeowners who wish to install air sealing, insulation, ventilation, heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and electric upgrades. The maximum rebate amount is $14,000 per housing unit.
Further, New York is working to stand up its Home Efficiency Rebates with $159 million funding from the President’s Inflation Reduction Act, which will provide eligible households up to $8,000 in additional rebates for measures that reduce energy usage by at least 20 percent.
“As the first state in the nation to offer these Inflation Reduction Act rebates, we are expanding access to home improvements that will save New Yorkers money on their energy bills and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels,” New York Governor Kathy Hochul said. “Thanks to our strong partnership between New York State, the Biden Administration, and U.S. Department of Energy, we are making important progress to make the clean energy transition affordable for all New Yorkers.”
After New York, three more states — Massachusetts, Michigan, and Rhode Island – are seeking to launch their own Home Energy Rebate programs.
