Energize PGH Brings Warmer Healthier Homes to Families Across the City

Energize Pittsburgh is already making a meaningful impact by closing a funding gap among existing sources of funding and deliver energy savings. To date, 36 homes are completed or currently under construction, with five additional homes expected to be completed before the end of the year. The program is being implemented by Rebuilding Together PGH (RT PGH), serving households with an average income of $23,000 investing an average of $11,000 per home to deliver long-lasting energy and health improvements. These upgrades have been especially critical following the challenging winter weather the region experienced, helping families stay warm, safe, and secure.  

“Energy burden, the percent of a family’s income spent on energy, is a critical issue for many Pittsburghers,” said Mayor Ed Gainey. “No one should have to choose between essential care and paying utility bills. Energize Pittsburgh shows what’s possible when we invest in people, neighborhoods, and practical solutions that improve daily life.” 

The pilot supports energy burdened households through a holistic suite of improvements, including electrification, weatherization, solar installation, and removal of indoor toxins Despite changes in federal funding since the program’s launch, early success stories are emerging across the city. 

One of the program’s milestone achievements is the first solar installation completed on a home in East Hills. At Dainna’s home, RT PGH was able to stack several existing programs and optimize funding to provide nearly $70,000 in comprehensive upgrades, including new flooring, doors, structural repairs, and a 5.92 kW solar system on a new roof; have created a healthier living environment for her newborn while reducing projected utility costs by approximately $900 annually. The solar system also strengthens neighborhood energy resilience by feeding excess power back into the grid. The City extends special thanks to EIS, Energy Independent Solutions, LLC, for installing the solar panels. 

The households served through Energize Pittsburgh reflect the diversity and strength of Pittsburgh’s communities. Participants include 32 female heads of household, 8 multi-generational households, 4 veterans, and 12 individuals with disabilities, spanning 15 neighborhoods and representing both Black and white residents across the city. 

The program is also creating economic opportunity. The work has supported six local contractors, including three minority-owned business enterprises (MBEs). In addition, three contractors invested in specialized training for heat pump installation and advanced weatherization, helping build a skilled workforce to meet the city’s growing clean energy needs. 

With nearly half of the initial goal completed or underway, Energize Pittsburgh demonstrates the power of partnership and local investment through building healthier homes, lowering energy costs, and creating a more resilient and sustainable Pittsburgh, one household at a time.