So what’s the biggest barrier people face to making home energy upgrades?

By far, it’s the upfront cost. About 65 percent of all respondents had concerns about the expense, more than double the 29 percent of households that stumbled over the next most identified hurdle: unclear costs and benefits. The researchers say that the cost barrier underscores how important it is to publicize and develop programs, like those in the IRA, that help people pay for decarbonizing tech.

Another clear trend is that renters reported rarely making or instigating home energy updates. That’s not surprising since building owners are typically responsible for major renovations and appliances. But it does underscore the fact that ​“renters need more help” to find opportunities to decarbonize their homes, either on their own or working with the building owner, Fuentes said.

Almost half of the participants surveyed said it’s important to them that the equipment for the upgrade is available through big-box stores, such as Home Depot, Lowe’s and Best Buy. Visibility is key, Fuentes told Canary Media. The team recommends programs that promote zero-carbon appliances through these retailers.

As for what motivates people to make home energy upgrades, the team found that across the U.S., residents who have already made decarbonizing updates are strongly spurred by common desires: to reduce their energy bills and environmental impacts, as well as increase the comfort in their homes.