Following three different pathways
First start with a basic plan and never replace gas with gas
From Incentives to Impact
Introduction
Catharine S. from Edgewater, in Chicago, IL, embarked on her electrification journey driven by the availability of incentives like rebates and tax credits. Over the past three years, she has made significant upgrades to her home and lifestyle, embracing sustainability through energy-efficient solutions.
The Transition Steps
Her journey began in 2022 when she hired a local company, Green Attic, to upgrade her home’s insulation. Thanks to available rebates, the installer deducted the rebate amount directly from her bill after completing the project.
In 2023, Catharine purchased a Chevrolet Bolt EUV, receiving a $7,500 tax credit, which made the transition to an electric vehicle more affordable.
The most extensive upgrade came in 2024 when she installed solar panels on her 1,900-square-foot home’s roof through another local company, Ailey Solar. The $25,000 project included squirrel guards and an electrical service upgrade to her detached garage for an EV charger. Since trenching was required for the solar panels, she combined it with installing a 220-volt electric line to save costs. Participating in the Illinois Shines program reduced her solar installation costs by 30%. She also plans to claim federal tax credits for both the solar install and the electrical upgrade in 2024 and 2025.
Challenges and Organization
Catharine found the solar installation to be the most challenging due to its technical nature and the conflicting opinions on the return on investment. She kept track of her progress using digital tools like email and document folders.
Costs and Incentives
Her total costs included $30,000 for the EV (after the rebate), $5,000 for the insulation, and $25,000 for solar installation and upgrades. Incentives significantly offset these costs: $7,500 for the EV, 60% off the solar installation (including 30% for the electrical upgrade).
Reflections and Benefits
Catharine is very satisfied with her transition, especially the cost savings. Her electric bills are minimal, and maintaining the EV is cheaper than a gas-powered car, despite Illinois’s $100 higher registration fee for EVs. If she could do anything differently, she would have added more insulation to her basement and windows.
Advice to Others
Catharine recommends starting with insulation upgrades for immediate benefits. She advises considering an EV or plug-in hybrid when purchasing a new car and exploring solar panels if financially feasible.
Conclusion
Catharine’s journey illustrates how careful planning, leveraging incentives, and embracing sustainability can create long-term benefits, both financially and environmentally. Her story is a testament to how electrification can be made accessible and rewarding with the right steps and support. 003