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Electrification for Everyone is a community-based effort with a focus on climate equity in SLO County. The initiative aims to ensure that all members of the community—particularly Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC), as well as low and middle income (LMI) households—have access to the resources and information needed to reduce the cost of their energy bill, partake in climate solutions, and build resilience.
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Ready to electrify your home?
Energy equity begins at home.
The climate crisis has far-reaching effects that impact everyone, but its consequences are not felt equally. Diversity Coalition San Luis Obispo County (DCSLOC), R.A.C.E. Matters SLO County, Central Coast Coalition for Undocumented Student Success (CCCUSS) and technology company BlocPower recognize that underserved communities often experience the greatest impacts of climate change, but benefit the least from available incentive programs. Electrification for Everyone is an initiative on the Central Coast of California to support a Just Transition to the future.
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Energy Equity in America
Even before COVID-19, energy bills strained many family budgets, especially for low-income, Black, Hispanic, and Native American households. In 2020, the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) published a report for the U.S. Department of Energy showing how low-income, BIPOC households spend a larger portion of their income on energy bills.
High energy costs correlate with higher risk of respiratory diseases, stress, and financial difficulties, making it harder to escape poverty. These communities also face systemic inequalities and limited access to resources, now exacerbated by job losses and health impacts from the pandemic.
45%
How much higher the median energy burden of Native American households than that of white households.
43%
How much higher the median energy burden of Black households than that of white households.
20%
How much higher the median energy burden of Hispanic households than that of white households.
Why are these statistics about energy burden important?​
An energy burden is the amount of money you have to spend on keeping your home warm, cool, and powered up. For some households, especially those with lower incomes, putting more money towards energy bills means leaving less money for other important needs, like food or a phone bill. The statistics above show how BIPOC households—which tend to also be low- to moderate-income—bear a higher energy burden than the average household.
What does it mean to electrify?
"Electrifying your home" means switching from gas-powered to electric systems for heating, cooling, cooking, and energy needs, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and cut greenhouse gas emissions. This involves replacing gas appliances with electric ones like heat pumps, induction cooktops, and electric water heaters, along with upgrading insulation and windows for energy efficiency.
This transition helps combat climate change by lowering carbon emissions and ensures homes are prepared for gas supply disruptions while promoting cleaner energy sources.
Electrification Explainer Videos
How do I electrify?
Below are three easy steps for beginning your electrification journey.
3. Find a Contractor
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Find enrolled contractors through our community partner 3C-REN to do the work.
If you live in San Luis Obispo, there is a concierge helpline you can call to get advice on how to lower energy bills and protect your home from hazards like flooding and poor air quality. Discover local incentives and free support to upgrade your water heater, HVAC system, and more.
Key Appliances for Energy Efficiency
In the next decade, there will be a mass upgrade of homes across America. Here are the key technologies leading that transformation.
Ready to electrify?
Click the tabs to the right to see how much money is available to you for clean home technologies.
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Enhanced Incentives
There is more money available if you meet the following criteria:
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English as a second language
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Low-income
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Reside in a mobile/manufactured home
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Market Rate Incentives
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Standard incentives available locally and at the state level.
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To help you achieve deep savings, we've connected with 3C-REN (Tri-County Regional Energy Network) to identify local, state, and federal incentives and rebates for you.
Resources for Renters
As a renter, you may encounter obstacles in electrifying your home that homeowners don't experience, like limitations on appliance changes or electrical upgrades. However, there are still avenues for you to contribute to electrification efforts and promote a healthier planet.
Upcoming Events
Calling All Contractors
Are you a BIPOC contractor working on residential energy installations? Click the button below for contractor incentives for energy upgrades, free training and customized energy code support for your projects through our partner 3C-REN. 3C-REN is a state-funded and locally-delivered initiative with free services for Tri-County professionals.
Electrification for Everyone Partners
