California energy officials want ratepayers to be plugged in.
As a result, the California Market Transformation Administrator will pony up $115 million over six years to boost the development and adoption of plug-in window heat pumps and battery-powered induction stoves. The technology brings cutting-edge performance to homes with no special wiring or installation — just standard wall outlets.
It's similar to efforts in New York and Boston to help low-income residents acquire efficient home upgrades, filling some of the void created by canceled federal incentives, according to a Bloomberg story shared by the CalMTA.
The program is intended to spur innovation from the supply chain through ratepayer adoption, simultaneously boosting market demand and educating the public about the tech. Competitions to encourage lower-cost technology development are part of the plan, per the report.
"This is a pathway for people to electrify and avoid costly upgrades," said attorney Rebecca Barker of Earthjustice, which lobbied for the program's enactment.
Heat pumps are one of the best ways for homeowners to lower energy use and safeguard against surging electricity prices, as more than half of household power is used for heating and cooling, according to the Energy Information Administration.
There are several options — including geothermal, ductless mini-splits, and plug-in window units — and picking the right one can be complicated. Fortunately, The Cool Down's HVAC Explorer can help you understand your options and save up to 50% on your energy bills.
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TCD's trusted partners provide curated quotes and installer suggestions to put the best tech in your home at the best price.
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Plug-in versions are a low-barrier option, as well. They are mounted on a windowsill sort of like traditional window air conditioners, though they are far more efficient. They are geared for room-by-room comfort, so another product might make more sense for house-wide solutions. TCD's partners can help you decide.
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Healthier indoor air 🏠 Battery-powered induction stoves combine the security of stored energy with the superior efficiency of electromagnetism-based cooktops, boiling water up to 40% faster than common appliances. California-based Copper is one manufacturer, but its models can cost $6,000 or more.
That's why programs such as the one in California are set to lower prices and raise accessibility through incentivized innovation and increased demand.
"One of the most beneficial things for us as a manufacturer to help us raise capital is being able to point to a big bundled-up piece of demand," Copper CEO Sam Calisch said.
Plug-in heat pump startup founder Vince Romanin told Canary Media that his company has been working with CalMTA for a year to support the plan.
"We're thrilled to see a clear, coordinated strategy that benefits both manufacturers and consumers," he said.
The advantages can be augmented by home solar panels, which provide abundant, sun-based electricity, lowering energy costs even more. TCD's Solar Explorer will help you find the right array on a budget, saving up to $10,000. And Palmetto's free Home app is a way to unlock up to $5,000 in rewards that you can spend on household upgrades. These perks are earned by completing everyday challenges, such as cutting energy use.
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
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