CESA Response to RFI about the DOE Home Efficiency and Electrification Rebate Programs

CESA submitted a response to a request for information (RFI) from the US Department of Energy (DOE) about two programs authorized by the Inflation Reduction Act—Home Energy Performance-Based, Whole House Rebates (referred to as Home Efficiency Rebates) and High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebates (referred to as Home Electrification Rebates).

The CESA response focuses primarily on ways to achieve accessible and equitable program design, especially to ensure that the programs succeed in benefitting low- and moderate-income (LMI) consumers and disadvantaged communities. The comments also address states’ desire for DOE to produce various opt-in resources that they can use. CESA argues that DOE should ease income verification for consumers to qualify for enhanced LMI incentives, including by establishing a national, safe, secure, easy income verification system.

CESA points out that, despite the significant funding for the two programs, only a small share of households will be able to receive rebates, so it is essential to avoid consumer dissatisfaction by setting realistic expectations, communicating effectively, and managing the programs so that rebates are not all used by wealthier, well-informed consumers who are in a better position to act quickly.

The comments were submitted from the CESA staff and do not necessarily reflect the views of individual CESA member organizations.