Wisconsin becoming the first state to launch the Home Efficiency (HOMES) portion of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) rebate program is part of the government’s nationwide initiative to provide $8.8 billion in federal funding to enable households at all income levels to save on the installation of heat pumps. HOMES is one of the two programs that make up the Federal Home Energy Rebate programs — and Wisconsin is launching it by leveraging the program infrastructure already in place for the state’s existing focus on energy programs. To qualify, residents must complete a home energy assessment provided by a licensed energy auditor in order to determine the home’s upgrade needs and establish the energy savings that’ll result from the upgrades. The amounts of the rebates are based on household income and the amount of energy savings. They can range from $3,000-$4,000, and in some cases up to $10,000 for those making less than 80% of their area median income. Also eligible are multifamily properties. Wisconsin also expects to launch its Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) program later this year in which Wisconsinites can receive up to $14,000 off high-efficiency electric appliances/other energy-efficient home upgrades.

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