From weatherization to heat pumps to solar panels, programs funded by Clean Energy Resource Teams (CERTs), the MN Department of Commerce, and federal government offer an array of financial incentives to help you tackle home improvement projects.
Here are the City’s best tips for improving your home’s energy efficiency this spring:
- Change air filters: Replacing the air filters on your furnace and air conditioner is an easy and cost-effective way to improve your home’s energy efficiency by allowing your heating and cooling system to run more efficiently.
- Install a programmable thermostat: Adjusting your thermostat when you are away or asleep helps save money on heating and cooling bills.
- Seal and insulate windows and doors: Gaps in windows and doors are major contributors to heat loss in the winter and cool air loss in the summer, resulting in higher energy bills. Seal openings with caulk or weather-stripping to increase your home’s energy efficiency.
- Install a heat pump: Air-source heat pumps are an energy-efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners for all climates. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides eligible homeowners a tax credit of 30 percent of the cost, up to $2,000, for heat pumps, and/or heat-pump water heaters. are an energy-efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners for all climates. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides eligible homeowners a tax credit of 30 percent of the cost, up to $2,000, for heat pumps, and/or heat-pump water heaters.
- Install solar panels: The federal solar tax credit allows eligible homeowners to deduct 30 percent of the cost of installing a solar energy system from federal taxes. The Xcel Energy Solar*Rewards® program also provides incentives for customers installing residential solar panels or small commercial solar installations.
For more information on funding your home energy projects, visit the Energy web page on the City website.