Saving Energy and Money in the Philly Area: Winter 2025
As temperatures drop, and the costs of heating grow, CNEP hopes that readers will look at some of the programs that Governments and PECO offer for saving energy, money, and reducing carbon-emitting gas emissions. State programs are significant; PECO programs are less so. We call out our programs for individuals, directly supporting energy improvements in their own homes. There are tens of other programs for small businesses, non-profits, and municipal entities.
Assessment is always a good point to start. Then look to the scale of the required upgrades. The programs are listed below from smallest dollar value to largest.
PECO Electric Customer Programs
First, get an energy efficiency assessment: $49/$99 for an on-site evaluation, without/with blower door and thermal imaging tests. https://peco.clearesult.com/energy-assessment This identifies problems to be resolved in existing housing. Based on this assessment, review 20 offers specific to appliance or equipment replacement for $50 to $375 per item. Rebates for heat pumps and other electrical items are tied to unit efficiency.
PA state-Run Programs
Grant of Services for Lower-Income Homes:
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) increases energy efficiency in homes by reducing energy costs and increasing comfort while safeguarding health and safety. Sealing the home’s doors and windows and insulation seem to be frequent measures. Priority is given to low-income individuals (with annual incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level), with priority given to higher risk residents such as the elderly, disabled individuals, families with children and high energy users.1 These seem to be grants of services with an average value of $8,000. Links are here:
Counties each have an administrator. Here is a list of these:
Loans for Residential Upgrades:
(KEEP) Keystone Energy Efficiency Program Home Energy Loan: This program is designed to assist Pennsylvania homeowners in reducing their energy costs. PEDA, the Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority, administers the KEEP program. Homeowners making energy-efficient upgrades are eligible for improvements such as installing storm windows, ductless heating and cooling, smart thermostats, solar water heaters, electric vehicle chargers, and more. “Single-family homeowners and Pennsylvanians residing in owner-occupied multi-unit residential buildings with up to four units are eligible to participate in this program. Improvement work must be performed by contractors approved by the National Energy Improvement Fund (NEIF).” Loans of up to $25,000 are made with terms of 3 years (4.99%), 5 years (6.99% ), or 10 years (7.99%), and are not secured by liens. https://www.neifund.org/keepenergyloan/
Loans and Grants for New Build or Full Renovation:
The High Performance Building Program (the Program) provides grants and loans to underwrite the costs, design, and construction or major renovation of high-performance buildings. Individuals must use the building as their primary residence and are eligible for up to $100,000. Small businesses may be eligible for up to $500,000. The building design must meet one of a number of nationally recognized green building standards. Note: We have not verified that funds are available under this program. See here.
This is not a comprehensive list of residentially applicable programs. We will add to this from time to time.
1 In 2025, the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for a single individual in Philadelphia is $15,650, and for a family of four, it is $32,150. Therefore the limits are $31,300 to $64,300.