CUB Supports “Yes” Vote on Emergency Heat Relief for Communities (HB 4058)
Posted on February 3, 2022 by Charlotte Shuff
Tags, Energy
Over the past few years, Oregon has been hit by many extreme weather events. From wildfires to historic heat waves to ice storms, communities across the state have suffered. A new bill, Emergency Heat Relief for Communities (HB 4058), will help Oregon communities access lifesaving, energy-efficient cooling and air filtration systems for their homes. HB 4058 seeks to:
- Provide $5 million toward emergency air conditioner and air filtration deployment
- Provide $10 million toward incentives for high efficiency heating/cooling systems for low-income and rural communities
Energy-efficient cooling and air filter options can help communities stay safe and healthy during the next extreme weather event.
For many Oregonians, access to air conditioning at home can be a lifesaving measure. In the summer of 2021, nearly 100 people died during the record-breaking heatwave across the state. Many people also have medical conditions that make poor air quality from wildfires extremely dangerous.
Having options for high efficiency heating/cooling systems, like heat pumps, can keep Oregonians safe while saving on their bills.
Heat pumps are highly energy efficient alternatives to furnaces and air conditioners. These systems work by pulling heat from the air and “pumping” it either inside or outside your home. During the winter, heat pumps pull heat from outside air to warm your home. In the summer, they do the opposite and remove the hot air from inside to cool your home.
By providing incentives, we can make heat pumps more accessible to Oregon families, particularly those with low incomes. Heat pumps use significantly less energy than traditional heating or cooling systems. These systems can cut energy used for heating by about half. Not only will these incentives save money on installation, but households will also see lower energy bills.
Heat pumps are especially beneficial for rural areas, where heating options can be limited and expensive.
Many rural homes rely on “bulk fuels” like wood, oil, or propane. These options can be very expensive or labor intensive, in the case of wood. Wood heating can also be difficult for seniors and those with disabilities who cannot harvest wood themselves. Other homes, especially manufactured homes, use energy intensive (and expensive) electric resistance heating as well.
Extreme weather is going to affect Oregon more and more as the climate crisis continues. We need to be prepared to keep our neighbors safe with energy-efficient options to keep our homes at a healthy temperature and air quality, while keeping utility costs low. HB 4058 will help Oregonians manage this new climate reality and directly support Oregon families.
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02/03/22 | 0 Comments | CUB Supports “Yes” Vote on Emergency Heat Relief for Communities (HB 4058)