News Summary
Governor Dan McKee has announced a $10 million funding boost for Rhode Island’s Clean Heat R.I. initiative, aimed at assisting low and moderate-income households in transitioning to energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. This funding, sourced from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, will cover up to 100% of project costs for eligible families, promoting cleaner energy sources and reducing energy bills. Since its launch, the program has already benefited thousands of Rhode Islanders, contributing to a more sustainable and affordable energy future.
Providence, Rhode Island – On Thursday, Governor Dan McKee announced a significant financial boost to the state’s Clean Heat R.I. initiative with the allocation of $10 million aimed at assisting moderate and low-income households in Rhode Island. This funding is designed to support the transition to clean, energy-efficient electric heating and cooling systems, ultimately helping residents reduce their energy costs.
Through the Clean Heat R.I. program, eligible low-income households can receive funding that covers up to 100% of project costs. The program specifically targets those who currently use oil, propane, or natural gas for heating, making these households newly eligible for support. Moderate-income households are defined as those earning up to 150% of the Rhode Island Area Median Income.
Funding for the Clean Heat R.I. initiative derives from proceeds of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, a program aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions across the region. This new set of incentives will cover the installation of innovative technologies such as air-source heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and necessary electrical upgrades.
Since launching in September 2023, the Clean Heat R.I. initiative has shown positive results, reportedly assisting thousands of Rhode Islanders in accessing energy-efficient technologies. By June 30, 3,740 households had benefited from standard residential incentives totaling $10.4 million. Furthermore, the program has allocated $3.9 million for 18 commercial and nonprofit projects and provided approximately $5.4 million in assistance for about 158 low-income households.
To qualify for the incentives, applicants must complete a Home Energy Assessment and document any weatherization upgrades performed. Detailed guidelines, application instructions, and information on income eligibility thresholds can be found through the CleanHeatRI.com website.
Acting Office of Energy Resources Commissioner Chris Kearns remarked on the program’s impact, indicating that Clean Heat R.I. has been successful in supporting homeowners by modernizing their energy systems while fostering financial savings. The program, originally funded with $25 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, has provided crucial assistance to low-income residences, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations since its inception.
Looking forward, additional projects to aid low-income households are anticipated to continue until early 2026, ensuring ongoing support for those most in need in Rhode Island. This strategic investment not only aims to enhance household thermal comfort but also contributes to broader environmental goals by promoting the use of cleaner energy sources.
The Clean Heat R.I. initiative represents a significant commitment by the state government to create a sustainable future for its residents, particularly those facing economic challenges. By making energy-efficient technologies accessible, Rhode Island is paving the way toward reduced energy expenses and a healthier environment for all its citizens.
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- Wikipedia: Rhode Island
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- Google Search: Rhode Island energy efficiency initiatives
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- Google Scholar: Energy Efficiency Programs Rhode Island
- WPRI: Massachusetts Family Oil Leak Cleanup Cost
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Clean Energy
- Providence Journal: High Electric Bills in Rhode Island
- Google News: Rhode Island Clean Heat Initiative
