Purpose and Objectives

Purpose: The HEAR (Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates) Program is designed to facilitate the transition of low- and moderate-income households (LMI) and adult family homes (AFH) in Washington State to high-efficiency electric equipment, particularly heat pumps and other electric appliances. This program aims to reduce energy use, lower greenhouse gas emissions, improve indoor air quality, and enhance energy affordability for vulnerable populations.

Objectives:

1. Energy Affordability: Reduce energy costs for low- and moderate-income households, especially during peak seasons like winter, by offering rebates and incentives for high-efficiency electric equipment.

2. Environmental Impact: Promote sustainable energy practices and support Washington State's clean energy goals by encouraging the adoption of cleaner technologies in residential buildings.

3. Improved Indoor Air Quality: Enhance indoor air quality by eliminating the combustion of fossil fuels, which releases harmful pollutants, benefiting vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

4. Community Impact: Provide financial assistance to several thousand LMI households and AFH, making significant contributions to energy affordability, environmental sustainability, and community well-being.

Rebate/Incentive Program Description

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Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates Program

Addressing Community Needs:

• Energy Affordability: Providing rebates for high-efficiency electric equipment to reduce energy costs for low- and moderate-income households, particularly vulnerable populations facing energy poverty.

• Environmental Impact: Promoting the adoption of heat pumps and other electric appliances to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support Washington State's clean energy goals.

Impacts and Outcomes:

• Energy Savings: Significant reductions in energy consumption, resulting in lower utility bills.

• Economic Benefits: Alleviating financial burdens, allowing households to allocate resources to other essential needs.

• Environmental Benefits: Decreasing greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating environmental impact, and supporting climate change initiatives.

• Improved Indoor Air Quality: Enhancing air quality by eliminating fossil fuel combustion, benefiting vulnerable populations.

Monitoring, Measurement, and Reporting:

• Data Collection: Tracking the number of participating households and types of equipment installed.

• Evaluation Framework: Assessing program effectiveness based on energy savings, cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and participant satisfaction.

• Reporting: Providing regular updates to stakeholders, including quantitative data, qualitative insights, and recommendations for improvement.

Estimated Impact: Serving several thousand households, contributing to energy affordability, environmental sustainability, and community well-being.

Qualification and Verification Process

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Eligibility Verification:

• Qualification Process: Requiring documentation such as income statements, proof of residency, and utility bills to verify eligibility.

• Auditing Procedures: Conducting regular audits to ensure compliance with program requirements and prevent fraud.

Data Management:

• Data Collection: Systematic collection of participant demographics, eligibility status, and program participation.

• Data Storage: Secure storage of information in compliance with privacy regulations.

• Reporting: Regular updates to COMMERCE, detailing program activities, participant demographics, energy savings, and compliance.