August 29, 2022
Passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) in August 2022 is the first major federal legislation, fighting climate change, the United States has passed in 30 years.
It was a painful process. We can celebrate that it is a significant start in the race to slow down climate change.
If we truly implement all it provides, it will reduce our U.S. emissions by 40 percent. To truly slow climate change we need to get to net zero.
The IRA offers a number of money-saving incentives for all seeking to lower pollution, and emissions. The IRA programs start in January 2023, I hope to cover those programs closer to their implementation.
Remember, your state may have already increased the funding for various energy-saving rebates and programs due to the influx of money from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
For example, as of July 2022, the annual income requirement for Vermonters qualifying for free weatherization programs increased by $10,000-$15,000. How did your state apply its ARPA funding?
The climate care page on the Conference website is the fastest way to check out what you may qualify for right now. Go to: https://www.neumc.org/creationcare
On the right-hand side of the page, you will find links for each state. These pages include information and links to the rebate and free programs in your state for you as an individual and your church.