Scott Reichart, in a letter to the editor, asked “what has been accomplished with the passing of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)?”
I am pleased to report that 1.2 million American families have already claimed 6 billion in credits for residential clean energy investments such as solar electricity generation, and solar water heating, averaging $5,000 per family.
Accessing funding is easy: Rewiring America describes it essentially as a “free electric bank account with your name on it … for swapping out old, polluting fossil-fueled appliances for new, clean electric ones.”
On the hottest day of the year, our air conditioner failed. With the IRA and other incentives, we received a 25% cost reduction — about $6,300. Our air conditioning bill is now halved. My persistent cough, likely aggravated by burning gas in the home, has improved. Our gas appliances had the same effect as living with a smoker.
We were lucky enough not to be the one in 4 Americans who struggle to keep their homes at a safe temperature over concerns for energy costs. We were glad to know the IRA helps low-income families with up to $14,000 for energy-saving upgrades.
Like me, homeowners can access a calculator to get an overview of electrification money that is available to you, then generate your personalized electrification plan.
Over 10 years, Americans will experience the impact of the IRA — in their homes, in the air they breathe and as they pay their bills. And projections suggest U.S. overheating carbon emissions could drop by 40% below 2005 levels by 2030, aligning with national climate goals.
Additionally, Utahns will soon benefit from a $101million IRA Utah Home Energy Rebate Program.
The IRA is a climate policy that delivers for all of us, while investing in a just and prosperous tomorrow.
Karen Jackson, Salt Lake City
