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Equitable Beneficial Electrification (EBE) for Rural Electric Cooperatives
The report investigates 'beneficial electrification'—the replacement of fossil-fuel end-use equipment with electric alternatives to reduce carbon emissions and costs—within Midwest rural electric cooperatives. While 88% of these co-ops offer energy upgrade or loan programs, the research found no 'fully beneficial electrification program' in the Midwest that combines conversion incentives, a net carbon reduction goal, verification processes, and energy audits. The document highlights the potential of cold climate air-source heat pumps (ccHP) and heat pump water heaters to provide grid flexibility and member savings. It emphasizes 'equitable beneficial electrification' (EBE), advocating for inclusive on-bill financing that removes credit score barriers and attaches loans to the meter to support low-income members and renters. Case studies from cooperatives in Washington, Arkansas, North Carolina, and Minnesota illustrate various models of on-bill tariffs and community solar projects used to reduce energy burdens.
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Document type: Report