What does this funding get me?
This program, formerly known as the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act (HEEHRA), gives point-of-sale rebates (which are essentially big discounts) for electrification projects, many of which save consumers money on their electricity bills. Examples include heat pumps (HVAC systems, water heaters, clothes dryers), electric stoves, and upgrades to ventilation and insulation.
Includes a $14,000 cap per household, with a $8,000 cap for heat pump costs, $1,750 for a heat pump water heater, and $4,000 for panel/service upgrade.
Am I eligible?
If you are a low-income or moderate-income household, you are eligible. Homeowners and renters are both eligible under the income qualifications.
This program covers 100 percent of electrification project costs for low-income households and 50 percent of costs for moderate-income households.
Low-income: 80% of area medium income (AMI) and below
Moderate-income: 80 to 150% of AMI
Check here for AMI in your county. Need help? See more resources below.
It is expected that owners of renter-occupied buildings, including both single- and multi-family buildings, will be able to apply for rebates on behalf of households they carry out projects for.
How can I access the money?
Guidance on how to access these rebates will come from the NC and SC State Energy Offices. Check back for updates and help applying.
For North Carolina: These rebates are estimated to launch in 2025. We will provide updates as we move closer to next year.
At this time, it has not been determined whether the rebates will be retroactive, so it is advisable to postpone upgrades until the final rules are established if you are counting on the rebate.
What is the timeline?
North Carolina: The NC State Energy Office is currently hiring a staff member to design these rebate programs. If you’re interested in applying, find the position HERE.
In the meantime, the SEO is soliciting public comments on how to design these programs equitably for North Carolinians. If you’re interested in submitting your thoughts, email NC SEO at seo.publiccomments@ncdenr.gov. Want help writing a public comment? Email Meech at the address below!
South Carolina: The SC Energy Office is currently designing these rebate programs. For more information, contact Gretchen Pool, Energy Program Coordinator at 803-737-0984 in the SC Energy Office.
Tribes: In addition to states, Federally-recognized Tribes can apply for funding to establish a HEAR program. For further guidance, visit DOE’s Tribal HEAR program page.
What other incentives could I use to help me accomplish my goals?
Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit
In South Carolina, check out the state’s Energy Saver Tool.
Tariffed On-Bill Financing Program (Duke Energy NC customers only)
Check the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) for additional incentives that may be offered by your state, local government, or utility, as well as important federal, state, and local policies. For questions regarding DSIRE, contact Justin Lindemann (NC Clean Energy Technology Center) at jplindem@ncsu.edu.
Where can I get more information?
- Sierra Club’s Appliance Buyers Guide
- FAQ on these rebates from the NC State Energy Office
- SC Energy Office web page on the rebates
- NC Clean Energy Technology Center’s Word to the Wise guide to home energy upgrades, which has more information on this incentive and others, plus hints on hiring contractors (English) (Spanish)
- Rewiring America’s coverage of the Home Energy Rebate programs
- Rewiring America’s Personal Electrification Planner helps homeowners and renters see what funds may fit their individual needs. In less than five minutes, the Personal Electrification Planner will generate a customized plan to help users go electric based on their unique home, lifestyle, and priorities. Check out the Planner HERE.
- For questions about these rebates, please contact Meech Carter at info@energyfundsforall.org.