Funding for these programs comes to Oregon thanks to the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). ODOE submitted our initial application for the home energy rebates to the U.S. DOE in March 2024. Now that the state has received the awards, ODOE can begin to finalize the programs’ design and start procuring and developing the program guidance, technology systems, coordinating agreements, and other materials necessary to launch two effective and well-run programs. ODOE expects that rebates will be available in late 2025 or early 2026.
Programs Overview
HOMES: The Home Efficiency Rebate Program (also known as HOMES) will provide performance-based rebates for energy efficiency retrofits in single-family and multifamily homes. This can include installing more efficient equipment like a heat pump or on-demand water heater, weatherization measures like insulation or air sealing, smart thermostats, and more. HOMES rebates will be issued for projects that can provide at least 20 percent estimated energy savings, with higher incentives available for projects that could save 35 percent or more. HOMES rebate amounts will vary depending on the project scope, with rebates covering 50 to 100 percent of project costs up to $10,000 per project, depending on the household's income.
HEAR: The Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate Program (also known as HEAR) will provide point-of-sale rebates to low- and moderate-income households to install eligible high-efficiency electric appliances and associated upgrades, as well as insulation and air sealing measures. HEAR Program participants could receive between 50 to 100 percent of project costs up to $14,000, depending on the energy upgrades completed and the household's income.
The
home energy rebates represent a significant investment in Oregon households –
particularly in low- and moderate-income households – as well as in the state’s
residential energy efficiency workforce. ODOE will ensure these programs are
designed to protect consumers and that funding is spent efficiently and effectively
in accordance with all state and federal laws and regulations.
Additional Background
On July 27, 2023, the HOMES and HEAR guidance was released by the U.S. DOE. These two programs will provide single-family and multifamily households with varying discounts for efficiency upgrades and rebates on high-efficiency home appliances and equipment. Although the application is not due until January 31, 2025, ODOE applied for both programs on March 27, 2024 and will prioritize rapidly deploying this program, while ensuring a thorough and efficient implementation design. The applications for these programs are the first of many steps necessary to launch these programs in Oregon (read the approved
HOMES and
HEAR submitted narratives for more information).
Now that ODOE has been awarded funding for these programs, the agency will continue developing implementation blueprints, as well as creating a Request for Proposals for an implementer to deliver rebates in consumer-owned utility and Idaho Power service territories.
Energy Trust of Oregon has been selected to deliver rebates in investor-owned utility service territory and will partner with ODOE to finalize program determinations. ODOE will also be selecting
and implementing a statewide rebate management system for the combined HOMES
and HEAR program needs.