Applications are open for the first phase of the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates, which will provide $80 million for low- and moderate-income (LMI) households to retrofit their homes with efficient electrification projects. Owners and agents of multifamily buildings may apply for rebates on heat pump heating and cooling units and other electrical appliances and equipment.
Single-family homeowners will be able to apply for HEERA rebates for new heat pumps for space heating and cooling in the next several weeks.
HEEHRA's rollout is part of the state's strategy to decarbonize California's buildings by encouraging the installation and use of electric appliances; reducing greenhouse gas emissions; and making buildings more efficient, comfortable, and resilient in the face of climate change impacts.
The CEC is distributing the first phase of funds through TECH Clean California , a statewide initiative that focuses on electrification projects. TECH's established community partnerships, network of trained contractors, and coordination with statewide energy utilities will accelerate the uptake of home electrification in low-income and disadvantaged communities and reduce disparities in energy equity. Multifamily building owners can start the application process by checking eligibility at the HEEHRA Rebates web site .
“California has led the way on saving people money while taking climate action. With the help of the Biden-Harris Administration and the historic Inflation Reduction Act, Californians can now get up to thousands of dollars to make the switch to energy efficient appliances,” said Gov. Gavin Newsom. “Saving money and fighting the climate crisis has never been easier.”
"California has long been at the vanguard of combating climate change and advancing energy efficiency,” said US Deputy Secretary of Energy David M. Turk. “DOE is thrilled to provide nearly $300 million to California through the HEAR program. This investment will build upon “California's strong foundation, helping thousands of additional residents enjoy lower energy bills and cleaner air, while strengthening our collective fight against climate change.”
INPUT SOUGHT ON HOME EFFICIENCY REBATES PROGRAM
IRA programs also include the Home Efficiency Rebates (HOMES) program, with $291 million in funding allocated for whole-home energy efficiency retrofits for single-family homes and multifamily buildings in California.
The HOMES application is currently under review by DOE, with opportunities planned for public input to guide its direction in California. Part of the HOMES funding will support a statewide “Pay for Performance” program through which rebates will be based on current measured energy savings. The Pay for Performance program will be available to Californians of all income levels.