Organizers for a campaign dedicated to energy efficiency are hoping to convince 100 homeowners to make the switch from burning fossil fuels for heat to a more climate-friendly, electric source.

The campaign, aptly titled “Kicking Gas,” encourages South Whidbey residents who currently use propane, oil or wood as a main source for warmth to instead install a ductless heat pump in their homes. Discounts of 20 to 50% for installation costs are available, thanks to a $1 million grant from Washington State University’s University’s Community Energy Efficiency Program.

More information about the campaign will be shared at an upcoming launch party starting at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 17 at the South Whidbey Community Center in Langley. Food, door prizes and kids’ activities will be available. RSVPs are recommended and can be made by visiting kickgasnow.org/events/launch-party-january.

Community partners in the campaign include Readiness to Learn, the city of Langley, Island Ductless Heat Pumps, Salish Sea Cooperative Finance and For the People. The aim of Kicking Gas is to help islanders reduce carbon pollution, improve air quality and save money on energy bills.

Linda Irvine, a volunteer advisor for the campaign, pointed out that the price of propane and oil is subject to fluctuation – unlike rates for electricity, which are fixed.

According to data from the U.S. Department of Energy, approximately 3,000 out of 6,500 households on South Whidbey heat their homes by burning propane, oil or wood.

The 20% subsidy is available for every eligible installation, regardless of income. Households which make less than 150% area median income for Island County qualify for the 50% discount on heat pump installation, and beyond that, low-interest loans are available from a cooperative community-based lending program. Donations made to the campaign also help lower costs.

The cost of the heat pump varies and is based on the size of a home, but Irvine estimated the average cost to be about $5,000, before any tax incentives or discounts from Kicking Gas are applied.

Ductless heat pumps also have the added advantage of providing air conditioner during warmer months and filtering out pollution such as wildfire smoke and mold. As more people become aware of climate change, Irvine said, they are also becoming more cognizant of heat pumps.

Kicking Gas campaign organizers have until July to get 100 homes signed up. So far, 12 homes have been awarded subsidies and nine are in the process of receiving quotes for heat pump installation.

“We’re just really excited to help these families make the climate transition to clean energy in a way that supports everyone,” Irvine said.

For more information, visit kickgasnow.org.