California has unveiled a groundbreaking rebate program offering eligible homeowners up to $8,000 in savings for energy-efficient home upgrades. The Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEEHRA) program, announced by Governor Gavin Newsom, aims to make climate-resilient homes more affordable while reducing pollution and energy costs.
Starting November 12, 2024, single-family homeowners can apply for rebates to offset the purchase and installation costs of energy-efficient heat pump systems for heating and cooling. The program extends additional benefits to multifamily building owners, who became eligible for various electric appliance rebates on October 8.
The rebate amounts are determined by household income levels:
- Households earning less than 80% of their area median income (AMI) qualify for up to $8,000
- Households earning between 80-150% AMI qualify for up to $4,000
"These units make homes more comfortable and can reduce electricity use by up to 75% compared to electric resistance heating such as furnaces," notes CEC Commissioner Andrew McAllister. The heat pumps serve dual purposes, providing both heating and cooling capabilities.
The initiative represents the first phase of two federal programs rolling out in California. Beyond making homes more energy-efficient, the rebates aim to improve indoor air quality and decrease greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
Homeowners can combine these new rebates with other existing incentives to maximize their savings on electric appliances and equipment. The program's launch positions California as an early adopter in implementing home energy rebates under the Biden-Harris administration's clean energy initiatives.
Qualified homeowners interested in participating can verify their AMI eligibility and begin their applications through the TECH Clean California platform.
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