Ensuring Effective Deployment of Federal Energy Efficiency Funding

Federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) presents an opportunity to help homeowners make their homes more energy-efficient. These provisions can be even more effective by utilizing federal tax rebates in conjunction with existing programs. A thoughtful and measured approach will be critical to ensuring that these funds are used in the most effective way possible. It will be imperative for the state energy office, local governments, and utilities to collaborate to ensure that consumers are maximizing their energy savings potential by taking advantage of multiple programs. Additionally, local governments will need to take advantage of this historic federal funding to develop energy efficiency programs that complement those that already exist. Providing clear information, as well as connecting people with programs and funds, will be critical in order to help consumers achieve deeper energy savings.

Federal, state, and utility programs will all only be successful if there is a trained, skilled workforce to meet the rising demand for energy efficiency. There is funding available from both the BIL and the IRA to help fill in the workforce gaps, but a holistic approach will be necessary to ensure workers are recruited, receive the hands-on training needed, and are placed in well-paying jobs with the potential for growth. The VAEEC has already submitted a proposal to develop a program on workforce development.

To assist all these entities, the VAEEC will convene all interested parties in order to collaborate on the creation of marketing and outreach campaigns, as well as educational materials with consistent messaging to ensure customers are aware of all available funding opportunities, including new federal money and existing utility energy efficiency programs. Additionally, the VAEEC will help local governments navigate the available options, including guidelines, timelines, and how to apply.

Members: The VAEEC has compiled a list of relevant resources to help you navigate the available funding options. You must be logged into the member portal to access this page, which we will continue to update as more guidance and resources are released. 

All Virginia localities, VAEEC members or not, are encouraged to view our EECBG Toolkit to learn more about the funding opportunities through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant Program.

In June 2020, VAEEC rolled out a new member resource portal. There is no longer one universal password for access. If you have not already accessed the portal in the past, select Reset Password on the Login Page. You will receive an email to create a username and password for yourself. If you have problems accessing the portal, or don’t receive an email, please visit our FAQ page or contact Rebecca Hui at rebecca@vaeec.org.