What does this funding get me?
This program, formerly known as the Home Energy Performance-Based, Whole-House Rebate Program (HOMES), provides rebates for comprehensive home energy upgrades like insulation and air sealing, along with the installation of newer and more efficient appliances. If the upgrade will save 35% or more energy, you can receive up to $4,000 or 50% of the project costs, whichever is less. For energy savings between 20% and 34%, you can get up to $2,000 or 50% of project costs, whichever is less.
Am I eligible?
Homeowners and landlords in partnership with contractors are eligible. Low-income households are eligible for even more — those earning less than 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) can receive double incentives, up to 80% of project costs.
Check here for AMI in your county. Need help? See more resources below.
How can I access the money?
Guidance on how to access these rebates will come from the North Carolina and South Carolina State Energy Offices. Check back for updates and help applying!
For North Carolina, these rebates are projected to launch in 2025.
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 Carter at info@energyfundsforall.org.
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.
What other incentives could I use to help me accomplish my goals?
Tariffed On-Bill Financing Program (Duke Energy NC customers only)
Home Electrification and Appliance Rebate Program (HEAR)
Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit
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.