Incentives Program Launches to Help Eastside Make the Switch to Heat Pumps

Eastside cities in Washington, including Redmond, Bellevue, Issaquah, Mercer Island, and Kirkland, have launched a campaign called "Make the Switch" to encourage homeowners to replace gas furnaces with energy-efficient heat pumps. Households can save up to $6,400 by participating in this initiative, which connects them with trained contractors who can help navigate available rebates and tax credits. Redmond Mayor Angela Birney highlighted the vital role of heat pumps in enhancing energy efficiency and building a climate-resilient community. The program offers rebates from Puget Sound Energy and Mitsubishi, complemented by federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. Households earning $190,000 or less may also qualify for a $1,500 rebate from Energy Smart Eastside.

This effort follows a summer marked by extreme climate impacts, reinforcing the urgency for electrification in homes. The transition to heat pumps not only aims to lower energy bills but also significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. For more information, residents can visit EnergySmartEastside. org or contact Environmental Sustainability Program Manager Jenny Lybeck.