Need Support Transitioning to Electric Appliances? A New Kind of 'Coach' Can Assist

Lindsey Williamson discovered innovative heat pump water heaters through a home improvement show. Nevertheless, locating a local installer proved challenging. "The biggest hurdle was finding a local professional to set up what I needed," says Williamson.

In Whittier, California, after transitioning to an electric vehicle and fitting solar panels onto their historic home, Lindsey Williamson and her husband sought further ways to diminish their environmental impact.

"We started considering what other household items we could switch from gas to electric," Williamson explains. Upon learning about energy-efficient heat pump water heaters on a television program, they decided this was the optimal route.

On reaching out to contractors, Williamson faced difficulties. Some were unfamiliar with heat pump water heaters; others pushed for another gas water heater. Only a single installer visited but later disappeared without a trace, leaving them in a lurch.

Emergence of the Decarbonization Coach

Many people face similar hurdles, prompting businesses, NGOs, and government bodies to step in. They offer guidance in navigating complex governmental incentives for cleaner appliances, acting as a kind of 'climate coach'.

Switching from gas to electric devices in the home is a significant step towards mitigating climate impact. Buildings account for a substantial portion of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, mainly through fossil fuels powering household appliances.

Recently, there's been a shift in preference toward electric alternatives. Since 2021, heat pumps outsold gas furnaces in the U.S. Furthermore, Consumer Reports indicated burgeoning interest in induction cooking, though few currently use it.

QuitCarbon: Bridging the Gap

In her search for a suitable installer in Los Angeles, Williamson encountered QuitCarbon, a California-based startup with plans for expansion. The firm ensures contractors commit to helping clients transition from gas, earning a commission upon matching successful installations.

Founded in 2022 by Cooper Marcus, who termed himself the "Chief Quitter," the company arose from a personal realization. If costly consultancies are a prerequisite for eco-friendly home changes, widespread adoption would be unattainable.

Marcus conceptualized the business as a 'decarbonization coach,' assisting in the complex journey to more sustainable homes.

Thanks to QuitCarbon, Williamson found an installer for a heat pump water heater. Although pricier than a gas option, they anticipate savings on future energy bills.

QuitCarbon also enlightened Williamson about government incentives, which she found quite beneficial. "I wasn't aware of these financial aids," she admits.

Marcus emphasizes staying updated on incentives, advising clients on potential financial benefits. "We can suggest delaying certain upgrades until favorable incentives are available," he says.

State-Sponsored Assistance

Some states provide services to simplify the gas-to-electric transition. For example, Maine's quasi-state agency aims to simplify the purchase of efficient appliances.

Michael Stoddard, the executive director, highlights their focus on consumer satisfaction. They aim to spur demand for efficient appliances, facilitating easier purchase processes.

Their website provides foundational information on appliances, with some suppliers streamlining incentives automatically, simplifying the purchase process for consumers.

By advancing consumer demand, the marketplace shifts in response, promoting workforce expansion and training in the cleaner appliance sector.

Empowering Consumer Decisions

It's crucial for people to have information about efficient appliances readily available, especially during urgent replacement scenarios, explains Ari Matusiak, CEO of Rewiring America.

Rewiring America, along with initiatives and volunteers, strives to educate households on eco-friendly appliance options.

A volunteer initiative is underway, primarily involving retired engineers committed to this cause. Trained volunteers offer vital support across U.S. households, meeting the growing demand for sustainable living insights.