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Milwaukee, July 3, 2022
What is Decarbonization?
Decarbonization refers to the process of reducing or eliminating carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from various sources, particularly from human activities such as burning fossil fuels, industrial processes, and deforestation. The primary goal of decarbonization is to mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as CO2 is a major contributor to the warming of the Earth's atmosphere.
How Might I "Decarbonate" My Home?
Decarbonization aims to transition your home towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources and practices. You can start on the pathway towards decarbonization of your home include:
Renewable Energy: Increasing the use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power is a crucial part of decarbonization. These sources generate electricity without emitting CO2, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Energy Efficiency: Improving energy efficiency is another vital component of decarbonization. This involves adopting technologies and practices that minimize energy waste in buildings, transportation, and industrial processes, thereby reducing the overall energy demand and associated carbon emissions.
Electrification:
Shifting from fossil fuel-based systems to electric-powered technologies is a significant strategy in decarbonization. This includes the electrification of transportation, replacing gasoline-powered vehicles with electric vehicles (EVs), and transitioning from natural gas to electric heating systems.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS):
CCS technologies aim to capture CO2 emissions from power plants and industrial processes and store them underground, preventing their release into the atmosphere. CCS can be an important tool for reducing emissions from certain sectors that are challenging to decarbonize completely.
Sustainable Land Use and Agriculture: Protecting forests, implementing sustainable agricultural practices, and reducing deforestation are crucial for decarbonization. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere, while unsustainable land use contributes to emissions.
What is the Status of Decarbonization in the City of Milwaukee?
Governments also play a vital role in decarbonization efforts by implementing policies, regulations, and incentives that promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low-carbon technologies. These can include carbon pricing mechanisms, renewable energy targets, and stricter emission standards. In Milwaukee,
Milwaukee Energy Efficiency Program | ME2. In Milwaukee, residents can participate in the Milwaukee Energy Efficiency Program | ME2 to secure easy and affordable energy-saving upgrades such as insulation, air sealing, furnaces, boilers, hot water heaters, air conditioners, and now, windows. Use the dollars that you are wasting on high energy bills and put them into energy-saving home improvements. Homeowners who have had their home inspected, insulated, and air sealed through Me2 have averaged a 30% reduction in energy use. Contact one of our Participating Me2 Contractors to find out how much you can save.
In addition to improving your home, all participating Me2 Contractors are committed to putting Milwaukee residents to work. Plus, saving energy in your home reduces air pollution that can lead to respiratory problems and contribute to extreme weather events from climate change.
Use Federal Dollars on Your Project: Residential Energy Efficiency Inflation Reducation Act (IRA) Tax Credits & Direct Rebates
Not a Homeowner? Explore PACE Financing for energy efficiency improvements to commercial properties.
What Improvements are eligible Improvements?
With Me², Milwaukee residents can finance primary energy efficiency improvements and a limited number of supporting safety improvements.
Equipment must be listed on the ME2 Residential Project Detail Form.
High Efficiency Hot Water Heaters, Heating & Cooling Equipment
High efficiency furnaces & furnace/air conditioning packages (95%+ efficiency)
High efficiency boilers (95%+ efficiency)
Indirect Water Heater installed at the same time as a qualifying boiler
Geothermal Heat Pumps (EER 15+)
Air Source Heat Pumps (15+ SEER, 8.5 HSPF)
Central Air Conditioning (14+ SEER)
ENERGY STAR® Rated Windows*
Attic & Wall Insulation
Air Sealing
The Me2 program offers an accessible, low-interest loan that can help you decrease your costs and increase your savings. Through our partner, Summit Credit Union, Me2 provides affordable financing up to $15,000 for eligible home improvements.
If a loan isn't right for you, the project can be completed and you can still take advantage of additional savings with rebate incentives from Focus on Energy.
The City of Milwaukee is NOT offering Me2 Bonus Incentives at this time.
Conclusion
Decarbonization is an essential strategy in addressing climate change and achieving long-term sustainability goals. By reducing carbon emissions, societies can minimize the impact of global warming, mitigate climate-related risks, and transition towards a low-carbon economy.
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