Learn how we are working to transform how we use and produce energy.
Making Decarbonization Financing Work for Homeowners and Contractors
Why we share this work for free
RMI is an independent nonprofit working to accelerate the clean energy transition. We publish research like this to inform decision-makers and drive real-world impact.
Our work is supported by philanthropy as well as partnerships, including fee-for-service engagements. This support makes it possible for us to share our independent insights for free.
If you find this work valuable, you can support it anytime.
Get more insights like this
Stay up to date with the latest research, analysis, and tools from RMI by opting in to receive occasional emails below. You’ll get new reports, event invitations, and practical insights to help us all accelerate the clean energy transition.
Loading form...
Your download should start automatically. If it doesn’t, click the download button below.
This work is made possible by philanthropy
RMI is a nonprofit supported by donors and partners. Philanthropy enables us to produce independent research and make resources like this freely available.
If you find this report valuable, please consider supporting our work. You can also explore how we partner with organizations to drive impact.
Jump to Section
Decarbonizing single-family homes is crucial to meeting US climate goals, as these homes account for 58 percent of the country’s building greenhouse gas emissions. Yet, high up-front costs for electrification, such as heat pump installations, present a significant barrier. In Making Decarbonization Financing Work for Homeowners and Contractors, RMI identifies five key elements that can reshape financing programs to make decarbonization more accessible and appealing to households across America. These include eliminating up-front costs, offering same-day approvals, and ensuring upgrades prioritize efficient electric alternatives over fossil fuel equipment such as gas furnaces and water heaters.
Why is this needed now? Many financing programs today are either too complex or don’t align with US and state decarbonization goals, leaving homeowners to opt for cheaper and more polluting fossil fuel-based replacements. Our report dives into how policymakers and advocates can craft financing solutions that work for both homeowners and contractors, making decarbonization the easy choice. Download the full report to learn more about implementing these five key elements and scaling home energy upgrades.
Related Insights
What Michigan’s Clean Community Financing Ecosystem Can Teach Other US Regions
Appliance Efficiency Standards: A Proven Tool for Affordability and Grid Reliability
Help build the clean energy future. Donate today.
Independent research. Real-world solutions. Supported by donors.
RMI can pursue the highest-impact climate and energy solutions because we’re supported by people who believe change is possible. Every gift helps advance the work needed to make clean energy the default choice worldwide.
For other ways to give to RMI, including checks or gifts of stock, please visit Other Ways to Give.
