Close-up of a smart energy meter. (Getty Images)
A statewide advocacy group has launched a petition urging Republican Gov. Kristi Noem to reconsider her rejection of nearly $69 million in federal energy rebates for South Dakotans.
The national Home Energy Rebates program is funded with $9 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act. The program provides rebates for energy-efficient home retrofits and high-efficiency electric appliances.
South Dakota’s allocation is $68.56 million , but the state did not indicate its intent to participate before last month’s deadline. The state previously passed up $1.8 million to help set up and administer the program.
South Dakota is the only state not participating.
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Jim Terwilliger, commissioner of the Bureau of Finance and Management, explained the Noem administration’s rationale during a July legislative budget committee meeting. He cited potential administrative burdens, limited staff and policy disagreements about federal spending.