An Electrifying Year to Help Residents Switch from Fossil Fuels

August 29, 2024
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As we mark the one-year anniversary of the Electrify MC Help Desk, this is the perfect time for us to reflect on what has happened since June 2023.

Electrify MC is a pilot project, aimed at helping residents transition from fossil fuels such as oil, gas, and propane in their homes and while it has been a success, there is still an opportunity (and MONEY) to help residents make the switch! This initiative not only supplements the Home Performance with ENERGY STAR audit program, which is part of the statewide EmPOWER Maryland energy efficiency program, but also demonstrates our commitment to fostering a sustainable future for our community to help the County reach our climate goals to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 80% by 2027 and 100% by 2035.

Residents have a turnkey solution for removing fossil fuels from their homes and going electric using the County’s vetted contractor. Through Electrify MC, residents can access an electrification help desk at no cost. When you’re ready for your first (or last!) electrification project, Elysian Energy can provide the services to get it right the first time: energy audits, electrification recommendations, Manual J engineering calculations, required permits for projects, and high-quality contracting. Montgomery County incentives are available to ease the transition away from fossil fuels, in addition to Federal tax credits and utility rebates.

A Year of Positive Impact

From the outset, Electrify MC has been driven by the goal of making homes more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Over the past year, numerous residents have embraced the opportunity to transition to electric energy solutions, reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to a cleaner, greener Maryland.

The success of the program is best illustrated through the voices of the residents who have participated. One resident shared their experience, saying, “We are in the middle of completing a project and are really happy with Elysian Energy so far.” This sentiment underscores the seamless and effective process our program partners provide, ensuring that projects are executed with precision and care.

Another resident expressed their appreciation for the county’s initiative, stating, “Very glad the county is trying to help residents electrify.” This feedback highlights the importance of local government support in driving sustainable practices and the positive reception from the community.

Perhaps the most heartwarming feedback came from a resident who had an exceptional experience with Elysian Energy: “I loved Elysian. They were responsive, extremely helpful, and pleasant to deal with. I had tons of questions and they went out of their way to explain everything very clearly.”This testimonial reflects the dedication and professionalism of our partners, who go above and beyond to ensure residents are well-informed and comfortable throughout the transition process.

To date, the program has

  • helped 19 households chose a cold-climate heat pump
  • completed 55 total electrification projects
  • received more than 400 sign-ups from residents interested in making the switch!

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to continuing the Electrify MC program and supporting residents in their journey towards electrification. Our mission is clear: to create a sustainable and energy-efficient community, one home at a time.

$$ There is still Incentive Money Available! $$

Did we mention that there is still money available? As of July 2024, we have made updates to the incentives available and residents must replace a fossil-fueled equivalent, check out the chart to see what projects may be available for you and your home!

Item Electrify MC Direct Incentive Minimum Efficiency Electrify MC Requirements
Ducted Heat Pump / Air-to-Water Heat Pump $1000 CEE Tier 1 or ENERGY STAR Fossil fuel heating cannot be retained
Mini-Split Heat Pump $2000 CEE Tier 1 or ENERGY STAR 50%+ total heating load
Cold-Climate Heat Pump (incl. Air-to-Water) $2500 CEE Tier 1 or ENERGY STAR Fossil fuel heating cannot be retained
Geothermal Heat Pump $2000 ENERGY STAR Fossil fuel heating cannot be retained
Heat Pump Water Heater $500 ENERGY STAR
Add-on incentive for electrifying two fossil fuel appliances simultaneously that share a flue in a masonry chimney $1000 n/a Verify eligibility with Elysian Energy
Electric Range/Cooktop $500 n/a All combustion appliances removed from kitchen
Electric Clothes Dryer $250 ENERGY STAR
Whole House Surge Protector $200 n/a In combination with an appliance above
Single-appliance surge protector (hardwired) $100 n/a Protecting an appliance above when a whole-house surge protector is not installed
Natural gas permit $135 n/a For capping the gas line for electrification of an appliance above
Oil tank removal $500 n/a When an oil furnace is electrified with a heat pump above

 

For more information on how you can participate in the Electrify MC program, please visit our website or if you have any questions, simply contact the HELP DESK by phone at 301-830-5767 or email us at electrifymc@elysianenergy.com.


You can also sign up through Montgomery County by signing the Electrify MC Sign Up Form