Funding for states to develop and implement a state program that provides training and education to energy efficiency contractors.
What does this funding get me?
This program makes $200 million available to state energy offices to train, test, and certify residential energy efficiency and electrification contractors, many of whom will be doing the work on improvements eligible for rebates under the $8.8 billion HEAR and HER home energy rebate programs. States can partner with nonprofit organizations to develop and implement these programs that will prepare contractors and their employees to bring clean energy technologies into homes. This program is also known as Training for Residential Energy Contractors (TREC).
Am I eligible?
Funding is available for contractors. Funds have been allocated to the states.
Pennsylvania:
- Total allocation: $4,960,910
- First Installment: $$2,480,455
- Second Installment: $$2,480,455
The PA Department of Environmental Protection may set up training programs themselves or work with nonprofits to set up and run training programs.
How can I access the money?
To access formula funds, states and territories will determine their residential energy efficiency and electrification workforce needs and then submit an application that meets the needs of these workers and their communities.
When the training programs are established, we will post instructions here for applying. Or contact the PA DEP (see links below) for more information.
What is the timeline?
IRA Section 50123 provides $200 million to TREC, to remain available through September 30, 2031. Of the amount appropriated by the IRA, DOE will allocate funds to States as follows:
- $150 million for formula grants
- Up to $40 million for competitive grants
What other incentives could I use to help me accomplish my goals?
None at this time
Where can I get more information?
- DOE web page on the State-Based Home Energy Efficiency Contractor Training Grants
- https://www.dep.pa.gov/Business/Energy/Pages/default.aspx
- The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) in partnership with the University of Maryland (UMD) Center for Community Engagement, Environmental Justice and Health (CEEJH), and Environmental Finance Center (EFC), alongside multiple community-based partners will lead the Region 3 Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center for the Mid-Atlantic region. The NWF is also extending its Region 3 community presence through community hubs such as the Overbrook Education Center in Pennsylvania. To inquire about Technical Assistance regarding the EJ Communities Grantmaking Program, contact the NWF at (202) 792-5350 or 1-800-757-1405, or email region3tctac@gmail.com. For more information, visit NWF’s website here.
- For specific questions on this program or for more assistance, contact Matt Salton at cleanenergy@conservationpa.org.