H.R.2679 - Cool Roof Rebate Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2679, the Cool Roof Rebate Act of 2025, directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a program providing rebates for the purchase and installation of cool roof products for eligible households. The bill specifies rebate amounts based on the type of roof (low-sloped or steep-sloped) and the solar reflectance and thermal emittance properties of the roofing material. The program is set to terminate on September 30, 2030, with a reporting requirement to Congress six months after termination.
Expected Effects
The bill aims to incentivize the adoption of cool roof technologies, potentially reducing energy consumption for cooling, lowering household energy bills, and mitigating the urban heat island effect. It also authorizes appropriations for updating the Cool Roof Calculator, a tool used for evaluating the performance of cool roofing materials. The rebates are targeted towards lower-income households in areas with high heat vulnerability.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced energy consumption for cooling homes.
- Lower energy bills for eligible households.
- Mitigation of the urban heat island effect, leading to cooler urban environments.
- Support for the cool roof product manufacturing industry.
- Improved public health outcomes due to reduced heat exposure.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential administrative costs associated with establishing and managing the rebate program.
- Risk of fraud or misuse of rebate funds.
- Limited scope, as the program only benefits eligible households in specific ZIP codes.
- Possible market distortion if manufacturers inflate prices to capture rebate value.
- The program's reliance on specific performance standards might exclude some effective cool roof products.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, as it aims to promote the well-being of citizens by reducing energy costs and mitigating the effects of heat. The establishment of a rebate program falls under Congress's power to tax and spend for the general welfare. There are no apparent infringements on individual liberties or rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).