Qualified Contractor Network (QCN) Newsletter
Qualified Contractor Network highlights
Thank you to contractors for your participation. Almost 500 contractors statewide have applied for the QCN. Commerce looks forward to working with you. Once the program has launched, the entire QCN list will be published on our website and available to the public.
You’re only 2-3 hours from your first IRA job
Once the Department of Energy (DOE) authorizes the program to launch, the only thing between you and your first IRA project is 1-2 quick trainings on how to use the program. All you need to qualify for HOMES and HARP projects is to take the program training offered by CLEAResult.
The training doesn't instruct you how to do the work. It instructs attendees how to get work and get paid for the work. Attendees also learn the best ways to work within federal program requirements so jobs run smoothly.
Contact your CLEAResult account manager for more information.
Snohomish PUD to host third energy auditor training
Commerce is partnering with Snohomish PUD to host the next IRA home energy auditor training. Space will be limited to eight participants. To be considered for this opportunity, a contractor must be QCN eligible and approved.
After the training, participants will receive BPI certification valued at over $1,500 and the skills to run energy models and identify opportunities to improve home energy efficiency. The certification allows participants to become eligible to perform home energy audits for the IRA rebates program. The first step in every IRA HOMES project is an energy audit, so this training is a great way to keep your project pipeline full.
All-in-one washer/dryer combos are A-OK in the IRA
Many washer-dryer combos offer efficient, ventless laundry solutions. This technology is a convenient solution that allows you to wash and dry in one machine without transferring clothes. Small, non-vented spaces would benefit from the space-saving design. Best of all, they’re allowed in the IRA Home Rebates Program. If you have a client living in a small space, this could be a great solution, and heat pump washer-dryer combos that meet program requirements are eligible for rebates.
Additional resources
June QCN Application Help Hour
If you know contractors who are interested in joining the QCN or would like to ask questions about the application process in an informal setting, Commerce suggests attending one of our QCN Application Help Hours, scheduled on the second Tuesday of every month from 12 -12:30 p.m.
Contractors can also submit questions via the QCN Contractor Support Form.
This meeting is only for QCN application questions. For questions about the program, please attend one of the sessions listed in the monthly training calendar section above.
The next QCN Application Help Hour is on June 9 from 12-12:30 p.m. If you'd like to attend, please register.
Native Clean Energy Workforce Initiative
The Native Clean Energy Workforce Initiative (NCWI) program equips native and frontline communities with the knowledge and skills needed to secure jobs in the renewable energy industries. This is a great way to get started in careers like wind turbine technician, solar photovoltaic installer, industrial machinery mechanics, and others.
Who is eligible for NCWI?
You may be eligible for NCWI if you:
- Have a high school diploma or GED at the start date of the program
- Are at least 18 years old
- Have a strong interest in gaining a technical education to help contribute to a clean energy future
- Live within the Portland seven-county area while enrolled in the program: Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, Yamhill, Columbia, Clark, or Skamania
For more information, visit Native Clean Energy Workforce Initiative - Northwest Native Chamber. To apply for the next training cohort, complete the NCWI Application today.
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