Virginia has made major progress on climate action over the last few years with the passage of the Virginia Clean Economy Act, the Clean Car Standards, and robust budgets for mass transit and trails. In 2022, President Biden made historic climate investments through the passage of the Infrastructure Investments and Job Act (IIJA) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Now, there is an unprecedented amount of funding opportunities available that the Commonwealth must leverage to meet its conservation and environmental goals

VCN is partnering with different organizations to create video stories showcasing how federal funds are being brought into the Commonwealth and highlight opportunities for decision-makers. Our first partner, Viridiant, is an organization committed to supporting sustainable building processes through education, consultation, and certification in Virginia, D.C., and Maryland. Since 2006, Viridiant has ensured the delivery of over 40,000 energy-efficient, sustainable, healthy homes in the greater Virginia region.

The Inflation Reduction Act dedicated nearly $400 billion to clean energy and climate change efforts, including $8.8 billion for Home Energy Rebates. Federal programs funded through the Inflation Reduction Act include Home Efficiency Rebates (HOMES), which support home efficiency upgrades, and the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR), which offers rebates for certain high-efficiency electric appliances. These programs are available nation-wide to help lessen the cost burden of making efficiency improvements. Additionally, these programs provide rebates for households at various income levels, benefitting all Virginians.

Viridiant’s expert energy audits help consumers identify which improvements make the most sense for their home and maximize the benefits of HOMES and HEAR. Based on audit results, Viridiant offers homeowners tailored solutions to enhance energy efficiency, optimize performance, and reduce energy waste—while also improving comfort and saving on home improvement costs. The Department of Energy estimates that these programs could save households up to $1 billion annually.

Additionally, these programs are projected to support over 50,000 jobs that are providing new work opportunities for other home improvement and energy audit organizations like Viridiant.