Unlike other types of water heaters, many heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) require a permit to receive available incentives. The time and cost of permitting HPWHs can be a barrier to adoption.  

But some jurisdictions are making the process easier and more efficient by allowing contractors to permit their HPWHs without waiting half a day for an inspector to arrive on site. Join AWHI as we explore HPWH permitting best practices, including minor label permits with sticker systems and random inspections, virtual inspections, guides for inspectors, and reduced permitting costs. Making HPWH permitting as convenient as possible will help accelerate adoption of this key technology while still ensuring quality installations and happy customers.

Panelists:

Madison Vander Klay, Senior Manager of Government Affairs, Building Decarbonization Coalition
Madison is an experienced professional who is passionate about smart urban planning and energy policy. She navigates the state legislature and budget processes in California. Prior to joining BDC, Madison worked in the California Legislature on housing affordability and externally on advancing climate, energy, and electric vehicle policy.
 

Steve Brotton, owner and founder, Great Northwest Installation
For the past ten years, Steve has pioneered the best processes for installation of heat pump water heaters in Oregon and Washington. Great Northwest Installation is now one of the leading heat pump water heater installation companies in the Northwest. He got his start in the U.S. Army and found a special connection with plumbing while working in construction. Now, with 30 years of plumbing experience, he’s laser-focused on supporting a clean energy transformation.
 

Siyi Zhang, Head of Product, Virtual Inspection, SolarAPP
Siyi Zhang leads virtual inspections for solar and water heating at Solar App, where she’s on a mission to make affordable, reliable renewable energy accessible to anyone, anywhere. A seasoned product leader, she brings deep experience in energy storage hardware, energy optimization software, DER techno-economics, climate research, and non-profit leadership. She’s working toward a greener future, one inspection at a time.

Moderator:

Joe Wachunas, Associate Director, Building Innovation, New Buildings Institute

Supported by

Explore free courses on energy efficiency and electrification with The LEARN Program. LEARN’s interactive learning hub covers topics like building design & construction, HVAC and hot water systems, renewable energy, and more resources to help you electrify your own home. Start learning today at sandiegolearn.com.