Energy Efficiency

Multi-family and Low-Income Housing:

Support rooftop solar in low-income housing and affordable housing/housing authorities
Support meter consolidation/submetering for multi-family housing; electric and meter upgrades for affordable/low-income housing
Ensure community policies, programs, and incentives are extended to non-city-owned projects and developments through alternative financing or RER projects

New Development:

Incentivize use of renewable energy for new developments in TIF districts
Work with local utilities/co-ops and Focus on Energy to promote existing energy efficiency programs
Work with Statewide Energy Efficiency and Renewables Administration (SEERA)/Focus on Energy, in partnership with utilities, to initiate pilot programs aimed at achieving a certain objective or filling a particular gap
Municipalities can establish retrofit programs that are aligned with Focus and Weatherization Assistance Program

Community Needs:

Information-sharing:

Help ensure that residents and community groups are aware of energy efficiency programs and services
Provide links to information and resources about the tax credits and other funding available through the IRA- rebates and tax credits enabled by IRA legislation will be available for homeowners. Rebates will likely be administered through Focus on Energy. Tax credits will be the responsibility of the homeowner.

Focus on Energy could be enhanced to benefit low-income communities through increased incentives.
WAP (Weatherization Assistance Program) could be enhanced to include electrification and solar.
Municipalities are eligible for IIJA and IRA funding to support programs for upgrades. Details TBA. Guidance is available.

Utility rate hikes require significant intervention to prevent energy burden in low-income communities

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