HARRISBURG, PA — In an effort to enhance energy efficiency and reduce utility costs for homeowners, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has announced a series of listening sessions aimed at gathering public input on two substantial rebate programs. The Home Efficiency Rebate and the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate programs are poised to collectively distribute $129 million to support energy-efficient upgrades for residents across the Commonwealth.
DEP Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley highlighted the significance of these initiatives, stating, “Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration and the Inflation Reduction Act, Pennsylvania residents will have an opportunity to cut their utility bills and help fight climate change.” This underscores the dual benefit of financial savings and environmental responsibility that the programs aim to deliver.
The Home Efficiency Rebate program is designed to incentivize homeowners to undertake energy-saving projects, such as air-sealing, insulation, and enhancements to heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems. Notably, this rebate will prioritize funding for multi-family affordable housing projects, thus extending its impact to a broader demographic.
In parallel, the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate program targets low to moderate income families, offering financial incentives for adopting modern, energy-efficient appliances. These include heat pumps for heating and cooling, heat pump water heaters, and electric cooking appliances. The funds can also cover upgrades to electric load service centers, wiring, insulation, and ventilation systems, making comprehensive energy solutions more accessible.
To refine the design and delivery of these programs, DEP is inviting feedback from a diverse range of stakeholders, including everyday Pennsylvanians, multi-family building owners, and HVAC contractors. The listening sessions will provide a platform for these voices to shape the programs effectively.
The initial schedule for these sessions is as follows:
- Tuesday, October 15, 2024, 6 PM: Brady Fire Company, 700 Maple Street, Ranshaw, PA 17866 (Register here)
- Wednesday, October 16, 2024, 6 PM: Montgomery County Community College, Pottstown Campus, 101 College Drive, Pottstown, PA 19464 (Register here)
- Thursday, October 17, 2024, 6 PM: The Kingsley Association, 6435 Frankstown Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (Register here)
- Tuesday, October 29, 2024, 6 PM: Lincoln University, 3020 Market Street, Room 435, Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Register here)
- Thursday, October 24, 2024, 6 PM: Statewide virtual session (Register here)
These sessions are open to the public, and while prior registration is encouraged, it is not mandatory. The DEP’s initiative reflects a proactive approach to ensuring that the programs are tailored to the needs of Pennsylvania’s diverse communities, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and economically viable future for the state.
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