This story originally appeared on BigPivots.com on January 20, 2025.
Durango-based electrical cooperative LPEA has created or increased three financial incentives, all of them under a new umbrella given the name ‘Resolve to Electrify’.
Newly installed as the CEO of La Plata Electric, Chris Hansen has dived into the carrot bin to incentivize electrification.
Battery storage rebates up to $3,000
Members can receive up to $2,000 in rebates for home battery systems. An additional $1,000 is available for systems in interconnection limited zones.
State and federal incentives also exist. The federal government allows tax credits of up to 30% of the cost of a battery system. Colorado also offers a tax credit.
Home battery energy storage systems costs vary based on capacity and brand. Installation often is an added cost.
La Plata says that 10 to 20 kWh batteries range in cost from $10,000 installed while those exceeding 20 kWh generally cost more than $20,000 installed.
“Our rebate program is designed to help offset upfront costs by approximately 10%, although the exact savings depend on the specific brand and the associated installation costs.”
Energy storage can save a homeowner or business operator money over time because the energy that is stored typically will be at lower cost. It can avert the need to use electricity on the ground during times of high demand, such as hot summer evenings.
EV rebates up to $500
La Plata has increased the rebate for installation of Level 2 home chargers, formerly $125, to $500.
Through the cooperative’s time-of-use rate programs, members can reduce their costs of charging the car or truck by shifting use to lower-rate periods. This also helps reduce strain on the grid – and makes it easier to integrate renewable energy at higher levels. Hansen has said he believes La Plata can achieve 97% renewable generation by 2035.
All-electric buildings
La Plata has expanded its rebates for members transiting to all-electric heating and cooling, including water heating and appliances.
Members building all-electric homes or completing a full electric remodel conversion can receive a $500 bonus. This is on top of existing rebates for heat pumps, electric heat-pump water heaters, induction cooktops, smart thermostats, and more.
“This is a true example of community power in action,” said Hansen in the announcement. “As a cooperative, we’re all in this together. By working collectively, we can reduce energy costs and accelerate the adoption of innovative energy technologies. Every member’s participation strengthened our community and moves us closer to a sustainable, resilient energy future.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: To further engage with the new program offerings, LPEA is hosting a special online webinar on January 29 at 1:00pm where members can learn more about the exciting initiatives within the “Resolve to Electrify” campaign. The webinar will cover the new rebate programs, energy storage options, and enhanced EV incentives, with opportunities for Q&A and additional guidance from LPEA experts.
In addition to the webinar, LPEA will host two in-person “Ask an Expert” events for members who prefer face-to-face interaction. These sessions will take place on:
Pagosa Springs: Wednesday, February 5, from 11:30am to 2:30pm at the Ruby Sisson Memorial Library.
Durango: Thursday, February 20, from 1:00. to 4:00pm in LPEA’s BE Lobby.
These events offer a great opportunity to connect directly with LPEA experts for personalized advice and to learn more about the latest energy-saving programs and incentives available.
Allen Best publishes the e-journal Big Pivots, which chronicles the energy transition in Colorado and beyond.