Federal Home Energy Rebates and the Healthy Homes Act of 2024

Assistance for Income-Qualifying Households and Buildings

DOEE is using federal funding from the Department of Energy (DOE) Home Energy Rebates Programs to expand the Affordable Housing Retrofit Accelerator (AHRA) and the Affordable Home Electrification Program (AHEP), low-income programs that reduce energy use in homes through energy efficiency and electrification upgrades that help households transition from gas-powered to electric-powered appliances and systems. These programs are run under contract with the DC Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU). Property owners/managers and residents are encouraged to learn more about these programs and apply directly with the DCSEU. Federally funded rebates will not be available outside of participation in AHRA or AHEP.

As part of its grants from the federal Department of Energy, DOEE is required to make program implementation documents publicly available. Those documents, including consumer protection and education and outreach plans, can be accessed below.

Assistance and Incentives Available to All Households

DCSEU’s Residential Rebates – distinct from the federal DOE Home Energy Rebates Programs – are available to District residents who want to upgrade appliances and systems in their homes, regardless of income level. District homeowners can also schedule one-on-one home energy coaching free of cost, or attend home energy coaching events sponsored by Electrify DC, to ask specific questions about their home energy audit or energy upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is electrification?
Electrification involves replacing home appliances and systems that burn fossil fuels with appliances and systems that are powered by electricity; for example, replacing a gas stove with an induction stove, or a gas-powered furnace with a heat pump for home heating and cooling.

What is the difference between the DOE Home Energy Rebates Programs and DCSEU’s Residential Rebates?
DOEE is using federal funding from the DOE Home Energy Rebates Programs to expand two existing District programs that are available for low-income households and eligible multifamily housing properties, the Affordable Home Electrification Program and the Affordable Housing Retrofit Accelerator. Interested residents and building owners must apply with DCSEU to participate in these programs. Under these programs, DCSEU provides direct financial and technical assistance to homeowners and building owners for home energy upgrades, including connecting participants directly to qualified contractors, advising on specific upgrades, and ensuring quality installation. Participation in these programs minimizes upfront costs to the homeowner or building owner.

Separately, DCSEU offers HVAC, appliance, and other rebates to households at any income level. These rebates are funded using local dollars and are issued typically after proof of purchase is provided. To find out if your purchase or installation is eligible, please visit DCSEU’s website.

How do these programs relate to the District’s Healthy Homes and Residential Electrification Amendment Act of 2024?
The Healthy Homes and Residential Electrification Amendment Act of 2024 is a local law that directs DOEE to provide residential electrification retrofits at no cost to low-income households and qualifying multifamily housing buildings. DOEE’s planned implementation of the Act is built on DOEE’s applications for federal rebates under the DOE Home Energy Rebates Programs. The implementation plan can be accessed below.

What other programs are available to save money on utilities?

The District also offers other forms of assistance to income-qualifying residents and homeowners to reduce energy use and save money on utilities.