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The federal government’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides tax credits and rebates to stimulate electrification and efficiency improvements in households. Proactive renters can cash in on several incentives, so should not assume the IRA benefits only homeowners.

This is pertinent, as housing stock within the city of Bemidji recently became predominantly renter-occupied. just over 61% of Bemidji’s occupied homes are rented, compared to 39% being owner-occupied residences. Residents who rent their home can tap into the IRA by purchasing electric appliances, many of which can be self-installed and taken elsewhere.

Portable induction burners and counter top ovens have the potential to reduce energy consumption in the kitchen. Both qualify for up-front discounts, up to 100% of the purchase price depending on a purchaser’s annual household income.

In addition to improving energy efficiency, switching from a gas range improves indoor air quality by eliminating pollutant emissions associated with the combustion of natural gas. Such emissions, according to a can cause or worsen respiratory illnesses.

Heat pump technology for air conditioning and heating, a more efficient alternative to traditional window-unit air conditioners, provides supplemental heating and cooling at a fraction of the cost despite still coming in a convenient window unit. Though not yet widely available, these self-installable heat pumps will soon become a viable solution for renters.

Arguably less portable, yet still self-installable, heat pump clothes dryers are also covered by the IRA, up to $840. These rebates will be available starting Jan. 1, 2024. Planning today for eventual upgrades to cleaner, more efficient appliances could yield substantial dollar savings for renters.

Considering lifetime energy costs and savings potential, as opposed to strictly considering the purchase price, is critical to making an informed decision.

Finally, used electric vehicles qualify for up to a $4,000 tax credit. For a vehicle to qualify, though, it must be at least two model years old and under $25,000 MSRP. Individuals in the market for a new EV can claim up to a $7,500 tax credit ($55,000 MSRP for cars and $80,000 MSRP for electric vans, SUVs and trucks). Even if a renter lacks access to Level 2 (240-volt) charging infrastructure at their home or apartment, they can still charge an EV by plugging into a standard 120-volt outlet.

This strategy is especially viable for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, which typically feature smaller batteries (under 25 kWh) and the ability to rely on a hybrid internal combustion engine to supplement the electric range. For reference, a 16-kWh battery will take approximately twelve hours to fully charge and, depending on the vehicle and driving conditions, provide between 30 and 40 miles of electric range.

Income limits do apply to the EV tax credit, so interested buyers should confirm their eligibility with a tax professional before making a final decision.

Renters should think beyond their immediate purchasing power by educating their landlords about incentives available through the IRA. Upgrades to insulation, ventilation, circuit panels and wiring are not typical selling points in the rental industry, yet cost savings associated with utilities certainly resonate.

So although most incentives are particularly focused on properties housing low- or moderate-income individuals, all landlords should seek out and consult tax professionals and contractors familiar with available rebates and tax incentives. When you are ready to explore the potential benefits available through the Inflation Reduction Act, visit and navigate to the IRA Savings Calculator.

Enter your household information such as your tax filing status, household size and income, zip code, and whether you rent versus own to learn about incentives for which you may qualify.

Jordan Lutz of Bemidji is a member of the Citizens' Climate Lobby organization. For more information, visit