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Welcome HOMES: Four Strategies to Empower Communities through Federal Government Rebate Programs

Based on our experience launching the first HOMES program in the country, APTIM offers four strategies to empower inclusivity in energy efficiency rebate programs.

The US Department of Energy’s (DOE) Home Efficiency Rebates (HOMES) and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) programs will save American households $1 billion per year and support 50,000 onshore jobs.

Energy efficiency, sustainability, and affordability lie at the heart of this landmark funding opportunity created by the Inflation Reduction Act. But how can we ensure that dollars from these federal government rebate programs are equitably serving diverse communities?

1. Forge Connections with Low- and Moderate-Income Communities
  • Collaborate with Trusted Community-Based Organizations (CBOs): As trusted sources of community dynamics and historical context, particularly in disadvantaged neighborhoods, these groups can provide vital information on energy-related matters to inform the implementation of federal government rebate programs.
  • Proactive Outreach: Engage with communities where they naturally gather—whether at local events, community centers, or neighborhood meetings. Be sure to share program details and actively listen to community members’ feedback in the early stages of program development.
  • Host Focus Groups and Public Meetings: Create two-way conversations to gather insights on program design. If possible, compensate community members for their valuable input.

2. Empower CBOs
  • Close Collaboration: Work closely with CBOs, such as community service agencies, United Way, Habitat for Humanity, and Feeding America, to understand community needs, concerns, and preferences.
  • Understand Cultural Nuances: CBOs provide valuable insights into communication styles and cultural norms. As implementer of a federal government rebate program such as HOMES and HEAR, it is critical to consider this information during development of an overall communications strategy.
  • Leverage Existing Networks: CBOs can effectively disseminate program information through their established connections as pillars of the community. Peer-to-peer communication can oftentimes be more effective than direct government intervention.

3. Tailor Communications for Cultural Relevance
  • Speak Their Language: Communicate in the languages spoken by the community. Multilingual materials can help bridge gaps and foster understanding and collaboration, but be sure to have native speakers carefully review your translations before publicizing.
  • Adapt to Cultural Norms: Tailor your communication style and mannerisms to align with local customs and sensitivities, such as removing shoes before entering a home, lightly touching someone to get their attention, or shaking hands.
  • Customize Approaches: Recognize the unique needs of specific populations, including local immigrant communities and Indigenous groups interested in participating or otherwise being affected by federal government rebate programs.

4. Create User-Friendly Online Resources
  • Design Intuitive Website Portals: Develop mobile-accessible hubs that are easy to navigate and create clear pathways to program information. As a rule of thumb, consider the user experience of a potential rebate applicant who has low technological literacy. This will help ensure rebates are accessible to all who need them.
  • Present Concise Information: Eligibility rules, contractor details, and program specifics should be written out in a straightforward format to avoid confusion. Condense information and simplify instructions as much as possible to increase program participation.
  • Prioritize Disadvantaged Communities (DACs): Focus on engaging DACs through accessible online channels. Steps might include maintaining compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines; providing materials in multiple formats (e.g., text, audio, video with captions); and creating an accessible online library of resources, guides, and tools in multiple languages.

As program implementers of the DOE’s Home Energy Rebates, APTIM understands equity and accessibility are key ingredients to success for federal government rebate programs. Partner with us to create a future where every home feels the warmth of inclusion and perks of energy savings.

APTIM. In Pursuit of Better.

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