A Step Towards a Clean Energy Future - Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)

The United States Department of Energy (DOE) provides rebates and incentives for residential energy efficiency and electrification through several existing programs (such as the Weatherization Assistance Program and the Energy Star program). These programs aim to help homeowners save money on their energy bills, reduce their carbon footprint, and increase the use of clean and efficient energy technologies in the residential sector.

The rebates and incentives can cover a wide range of measures, including insulation, efficient heating and cooling systems, and the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, among others. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 adds two new programs to the offering:

  • The Homeowner Managing Energy Savings (HOMES) Rebate Program
  • The High-Efficiency Electric Homes Rebate Program

Inflation Reduction Act

Delivering savings solutions to those who need it most

These programs are funded by the Federal Government and delivered by the State Energy Offices (SEOs) of the 50 United States.  With a combined budget of over $8 Billion over eight years, these programs will have a significant impact on carbon reduction, a reduction in homeowner costs for energy, and provide a marked increase in energy-related jobs.

Both programs support owned and rented homes, with an increase in incentives for Low to Moderate Income residents, furthering a push to support underserved communities and ensure governmental funding reaches those most in need.

The DOE has published state budgets for pre-program planning and design activities and State Energy Offices have begun to apply for these funds.  State engagement with subject matter experts like AEG will be critical for them to rapidly and successfully launch programs in the compressed timeline that the current schedule demands.

RFI for stakeholder input

The DOE has released an RFI for stakeholder input focusing on the following, among other topics:

  • Accessible and Equitable Program Design
  • Design Considerations specific to Indian Tribes
  • Designing Programs for Maximum Impact
  • Integrating Existing Incentives and Programs
  • Technology Tools, Technical Assistance for SEOs, and Partnerships
  • Income Verification
  • Estimating Energy Savings
  • Eligible Technologies and Rebates
  • Data Access and Sharing

This research will inform the development and delivery of DOE program guidance, with a goal of having initial program offerings available to the public by late-2023.

Full program life-cycle support with AEG

Leveraging best practices from decades of experience in designing, evaluating, and implementing solutions for energy efficiency and beneficial electrification programs for utilities, State and Federal agencies, AEG assists stakeholders across the spectrum of organizations that will enable these important initiatives.

Contact us to learn more