How IRA’s HOMES and HEAR Programs Can Help You Save on Energy Bills

Save money on utility bills with DG heating and cooling

With rising energy costs, finding ways to save money on your utility bills is more important than ever, especially for lower-income households. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) offers significant opportunities for savings through its HOMES and HEAR programs, which provide energy rebates to homeowners who make energy-efficient upgrades. However, the key to unlocking these savings is working with a certified IRA Registered Contractor, like our team, who can guide you through the process from start to finish.

Understanding the HOMES Program

The HOMES (Home Owner Managing Energy Savings) program is designed to help homeowners reduce their energy consumption and lower their utility bills by offering substantial rebates for energy-efficient upgrades. Here’s how it works:

Primary Contractor Requirement:

The HOMES program requires that a single IRA Registered Primary Contractor oversee the successful completion of the work. This ensures that all upgrades are done to the highest standards and that the final invoicing is accurately completed.

Rebate Amounts:

Rebates under the HOMES program are determined by your household income and the amount of energy savings achieved:

For Single-Family Homes:

Less than 80% of Area Median Income (AMI): Up to $5,000 for 20%-34% energy savings; up to $10,000 for 35% or more energy savings.
80% to 150% of AMI: 50% of project costs, up to $2,000 for 20%-34% savings; up to $4,000 for 35% or more savings.
150% or more of AMI: 50% of project costs, up to $1,500 for 20%-34% savings; up to $3,000 for 35% or more savings.

Energy Assessment:

Every HOMES project begins with a comprehensive energy assessment conducted by a certified professional. This assessment identifies the most effective energy-saving measures for your home and is a prerequisite for accessing rebates.

Financial Disclosure:

If you finance your energy efficiency upgrades through the Primary Contractor (PC), you’ll receive a Financial Disclosure outlining all payment terms. This disclosure includes a waiting period of seven days before you can sign the contract, ensuring you have time to review all details unless it’s an emergency.

How the HEAR Program Enhances Your Savings

The HEAR (High-Efficiency Assistance for Rebates) program focuses on providing instant discounts to help you save on energy-efficient products:

Instant Discounts:

Starting June 1, 2024, the HEAR program offers instant discounts that are applied directly at the time of purchase through participating distributors. This means no forms to fill out and no waiting for rebates—the discount is deducted from your invoice immediately.

Eligibility:

These discounts are available for various energy-efficient upgrades, making it easier and faster for you to start saving on your energy bills.

DG IRA approved contractor

How to Get Started: The Role of a Registered Contractor

Finding a contractor who is registered with the IRA is crucial for accessing these rebates and discounts. As an IRA Registered Contractor, we are fully equipped to:

Conduct the Initial Energy Assessment:
We’ll start by assessing your home to identify the best opportunities for energy savings.

Guide You Through the Rebate Process:
We’ll help you understand which rebates you qualify for and ensure all paperwork is completed accurately and on time.

Perform High-Quality Upgrades:
Our team will carry out all recommended upgrades, ensuring they meet the required standards for maximum rebate eligibility.

Provide Financial Transparency:
We’ll offer clear financial disclosures and work with you to ensure that all payment terms are fully understood before any work begins.

Ensure Satisfaction:
After completing the work, we’ll obtain your written attestation confirming that you’re satisfied with the project. This final step ensures that all rebates are properly processed.

In today’s tough economic climate, every bit of savings counts. The Inflation Reduction Act’s HOMES and HEAR programs offer a valuable opportunity to reduce your energy bills through rebates and instant discounts. By working with a trusted, IRA Registered Contractor like us, you can ensure that you’re getting the most out of these programs. Contact us today to schedule your energy assessment and take the first step towards a more energy-efficient home and lower utility bills.