Pierce County is taking a big step towards energy efficiency, thanks to a sizable grant awarded by the Washington State Department of Commerce. The county's Human Services and Planning & Public Works departments received a cool $1.8 million aimed at assisting households make the shift to more eco-friendly electrical appliances.
The funds are a result of a collaborative application by Pierce County Human Services (PCHS), and Planning and Public Works (PPW), according to a county statement. A substantial share of this grant, precisely $1 million, is earmarked for the PCHS Weatherization Assistance Program to buy and set up electric appliances for low-income dwellings in unincorporated regions of the county.
These rebates and incentives are part of a drive to electrify homes with high-efficiency heat pumps, water heaters, and necessary electrical panel upgrades, which in turn, can slash utility costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Donn Falconer, the Weatherization supervisor mentioned, "This funding will help qualified community members transfer to more energy-efficient electric appliances,” and added, “The goal is for participating households to see a reduction in their energy costs."
The yet-to-be-utilized funds will be managed by PPW to work in conjunction with utility companies, offering rebate distribution across Pierce County for their low-income residents. “Increasing access to home electrification rebates is a priority action in Pierce County’s Sustainability 2030 Plan” Ryan Dicks, Sustainable Resources administrator at PPW declared, envisioning it to boost the installation rate of new super-efficient appliances.
