Energy Department Curbs $8.8 Billion in Appliance Rebates, Rolling Back Biden-Era Electrification
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jun 1
Energy Department Curbs $8.8 Billion in Appliance Rebates, Rolling Back Biden-Era Electrification
1 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jun 1
New Energy Department guidance effective Friday would block states from using federal rebates for swapping gas appliances for electric models, including stoves, ovens, dryers, heat pumps and water heaters.
The change hits roughly $8.8 billion approved under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, undercutting a Biden climate policy designed to shift households away from fossil-fuel-burning equipment.
One rebate program offers thousands of dollars for home efficiency and heating upgrades, with larger incentives for households earning under 80% of area median income.
A second, electrification-focused program covers families earning up to 150% of local median income, with rebates of up to $8,000 for heat pumps, $1,750 for heat-pump water heaters and $840 for induction stoves.
With federal rebates gone, can states and utilities still make switching to electric appliances affordable for families?
As climate change makes home insurance unaffordable, why are rebates for eco-friendly electric appliances being cut?
How will shifting federal climate policies affect America's energy companies and their goals for a lower-carbon future?