The Durango-based electrical cooperative has created or increased three financial incentives, all of them under a new umbrella given the name Resolve to Electrify.
Newly installed as the chief executive of La Plata Electric, Chris Hansen has dived into the carrot bin to incentivize electrification.
The Durango-based electrical cooperative has created or increased three financial incentives, all of them under a new umbrella given the name Resolve to Electrify.
Battery storage rebates up to $3,000
Members can receive up to $2,000 in rebates for home battery systems. An additional $1,000 is available for systems in interconnection limited zones.
State and federal incentives also exist. The federal government allows tax credits of up to 30% of the cost of a battery system. Colorado also offers a tax credit.
Home battery energy storage systems costs vary based on capacity and brand. Installation often is an added cost.
La Plata says that 10 to 20 kWh batteries range in cost from $10,000 installed while those exceeding 20 kWh generally cost more than $20,000 installed.
“Our rebate program is designed to help offset upfront costs by approximately 10%, although the exact savings depend on the specific brand and the associated installation costs.”
Energy storage can save a homeowner or business operator money over time because the energy that is stored typically will be at lower cost. It can avert the need to use electricity on the ground during times of high demand, such as hot summer evenings.
EV rebates up to $500
La Plata has increased the rebate for installation of Level 2 home chargers, formerly $125, to $500.
Through the cooperative’s time-of-use rate programs, members can reduce their costs of charging the car or truck by shifting use to lower-rate periods. This also helps reduce strain on the grid – and makes it easier to integrate renewable energy at higher levels. Hansen has said he believes La Plata can achieve 97% renewable generation by 2035.
All-electric buildings
La Plata has expanded its rebates for members transiting to all-electric heating and cooling, including water heating and appliances.
Members building all-electric homes or completing a full electric remodel conversion can receive a $500 bonus. This is on top of existing rebates for heat pumps, electric heat-pump water heaters, induction cooktops, smart thermostats, and more.
“This is a true example of community power in action,” said Hansen in the announcement. “As a cooperative, we’re all in this together. By working collectively, we can reduce energy costs and accelerate the adoption of innovative energy technologies. Every member’s participation strengthened our community and moves us closer to a sustainable, resilient energy future.”
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