The West Virginia Office of Energy has begun to roll out $88 million in federal rebates to support residents as they make upgrades to their homes.
Home energy improvements like air sealing and upgraded heating and cooling equipment, which create better weatherization, can all be eligible for government incentives.
Here's what to know
The West Virginia Office of Energy has entered the pilot phase of its Home Owner Managing Energy Savings, or HOMES, Program. It's one of two state rebate efforts financed through the U.S. Department of Energy.
Among the upgrades that may qualify are insulation, energy-efficient windows and doors, and efficient HVAC systems. State officials said those changes can increase comfort, improve energy performance, and lower utility costs all at the same time.
When the program is fully in place, participating households across West Virginia are expected to collectively see up to $4.5 million in utility savings each year, Lootpress reported.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey presented the program as a practical way to help families deal with household expenses.
TCD Picks » Quince Spotlight
💡These best-sellers from Quince deliver affordable, sustainable luxury for all
"Every family deserves a safe, comfortable home they can afford to heat and cool," Morrisey said of the incentive package. "This program will help West Virginians make practical improvements that lower energy costs, strengthen our housing stock, and put more money back in the pockets of hardworking families."
The pilot is limited to a set number of homes in the southern portion of the state through Coalfield Community Action Partnership, Southwestern Community Action Council, and PRIDE Community Services, per Lootpress.
Rebate size is based on a home's income and potential energy savings. There's a maximum rebate size up to 100% of the project's cost, per the West Virginia Office of Energy.
To see if you are eligible for the program and apply for the incentive, check the agency's website here.
More background
The pilot is an early stage ahead of a statewide launch. The West Virginia Office of Energy said starting this way will allow officials to test contractor coordination, customer support, and other systems before wider expansion.
Energy efficiency upgrades can provide benefits beyond a one-time rebate. Better insulation and air sealing can help keep homes more comfortable year-round, and efficient equipment can ease strain on aging systems and lower operating costs over time.
State officials are also trying to expand the workforce needed to complete the upgrades. The West Virginia Office of Energy said it is growing its network of qualified professionals through an Energy Efficiency Contractor Training Program operated in partnership with Everblue.
A second rebate effort is also in development: The Home Efficiency Appliance Rebate, or HEAR, Program. HOMES is aimed at whole-home improvements tied to measurable energy savings. HEAR is intended to help eligible households cover part of the cost of efficient appliances and equipment.
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.
