Shapiro & Other Governors Commit To Quadruple Heat Pump Installations By 2030

September 25, 2023

Last week the US Climate Alliance announced its goal of quadrupling the installation of heat pumps in the country by 2030. It also announced its goal to develop widespread local zero emissions building codes. Pennsylvania is listed as one of the member state governments of the Alliance and signed onto some of the following goals:

  • Explore the adoption of zero-emission standards for space heating and water heating equipment.
  • Explore the adoption of Building Performance Standards like those enacted in CO, MD, OR, and WA.
  • Explore the development of clean heat standards.
  • Support the development and adoption of advanced energy-efficient building codes that maximize opportunities for efficient electrification and support solar and electric vehicle readiness
  • Take actions to align buildings sector utility resource planning and procurement policies with state climate goals

Note: Pennsylvania did not sign onto the goal of phasing out fossil fuel heating and cooling in new construction by 2027

Click here to read the entire US Climate Alliance press release.

Although the announced goals are aspirational (meaning that they do not currently have the force of law), the organization’s action demonstrates the continuing threat of electrification policies. The Alliance promotes as one of its tenets the that at least 40% of heat pump installations should be aimed at low-income dwellings.

The heat pump rebate program established under the federal Inflation Reduction Act is set to begin in the upcoming months (most likely Q1 2024). Pennsylvania will receive $129 million to provide $8,000 grants to individuals who meet certain income criteria for heat pump conversions as well as other equipment (click here to read more) PPA has been concerned that state government may add funding to this program.

Pennsylvania has already allocated IRA monies to regional organizations to develop local government building codes. One million dollars have been provided to Southwest and Southeast Pennsylvania groups, as well in the Lehigh Valley. Click here to read more.