Home Efficiency Boost Program

Eligible households can receive up to $14,000 in total rebates for the following:

• Heating and Cooling:

  • Up to $8,000 for an ENERGY STAR-certified electric heat pump for space heating and cooling.
  • Up to $1,750 for an ENERGY STAR-certified electric heat pump water heater.

• Electrical System Upgrades:

  • Up to $4,000 for upgrading the electrical panel to accommodate new electric appliances.
  • Up to $2,500 for necessary electrical wiring improvements.

• Home Efficiency Enhancements:

  • Up to $1,600 for ENERGY STAR-certified insulation, air sealing, and ventilation improvements.

• Appliance Upgrades:

  • Up to $840 for an ENERGY STAR-certified electric stove, cooktop, range, oven, or heat pump clothes dryer.

Not Funded by HEAR:

• Non-Electric Appliances: Purchases of gas-powered stoves, ovens, or dryers are not eligible.
• Renewable Energy Installations: Investments in solar panels, wind turbines, or other renewable energy systems are excluded.
• Non-Efficiency Related Home Improvements: Projects such as cosmetic renovations, general home repairs, or non-energy-related upgrades do not qualify.

The HEAR Program is designed to assist households in adopting energy-efficient electric appliances. Eligibility is primarily determined by household income relative to the Area Median Income (AMI):

• Low-Income Households: Earning ≤80% of AMI.
• Moderate-Income Households: Earning between 80% and 150% of AMI.

Both homeowners and renters are eligible, provided they meet the income criteria. Renters must obtain landlord approval for any upgrades. Additionally, owners of multifamily buildings can apply for rebates on behalf of tenants, especially if over 50% of the tenants meet the income eligibility requirements.

HEAR offers financial incentives to assist households in transitioning to energy-efficient electric appliances. The out-of-pocket cost for participants varies based on household income relative to the Area Median Income (AMI):

• Low-Income Households: Those earning ≤80% of AMI are eligible for rebates covering up to 100% of electrification project costs, effectively minimizing or eliminating out-of-pocket expenses.

• Moderate-Income Households: Those earning between 80% and 150% of AMI can receive rebates covering up to 50% of project costs, requiring them to cover the remaining expenses.

What types of services this program provides:

Eligible homeowners can receive up to $16,000 in rebates for projects that achieve significant energy savings. Qualifying upgrades include:

• Insulation and Air Sealing: Enhancing insulation and sealing air leaks to improve thermal efficiency.
• High-Efficiency HVAC Systems: Upgrading to energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units.
• Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors: Installing windows and doors that reduce energy loss.
• Smart Thermostats: Implementing devices that optimize heating and cooling schedules.

However, the HOMES Program does not cover:

• Appliance Purchases: Such as refrigerators, ovens, or washers and dryers.
• Renewable Energy Installations: Including solar panels or wind turbines.
• Cosmetic Home Improvements: Like painting, flooring, or other aesthetic upgrades.

The cost to participate in the HOMES program depends on the energy efficiency upgrades a homeowner chooses to make. Unlike WAP, which is fully funded for low-income households, HOMES requires homeowners to pay upfront for improvements and then they receive a rebate based on the energy savings achieved.

a household in the Raleigh-Durham area earning up to 150% of the Area Median Income (AMI) is considered moderate-income and is eligible for rebates covering 50% of the project costs, up to a maximum of $14,000 per household.

Example Scenario:

• Household Income: Up to 150% of AMI
• Project: Installation of an ENERGY STAR-certified electric heat pump for space heating and cooling
• Total Cost of Installation: $10,000

Rebate Calculation:

• Eligible Rebate: 50% of $10,000 = $5,000
• Out-of-Pocket Expense for Homeowner: $10,000 (total cost) – $5,000 (rebate) = $5,000

Renters may qualify with the property owner’s consent. A home energy assessment is typically required to evaluate the current energy usage and identify potential improvements.

Who qualifies: Eligibility is based on household income relative to federal low-income guidelines. If a household contains a member who receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Public Assistance, Food Stamps, or Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) benefits, the household is considered automatically eligible for weatherization services. Special considerations are given to the elderly, handicapped, and to households with small children. See chart below.

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is free for eligible low-income households. There is no cost to participate because the program is fully funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and administered through state and local agencies.

Renters may still qualify for energy efficiency assistance, but some programs require landlord approval before upgrades can be made. The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is available to renters with the property owner’s consent, and rebates through the HOMES and HEAR programs may also apply to rental properties. If you’re a renter, we encourage you to apply, and we’ll work with you and your landlord to explore the best options for improving your home’s efficiency and lowering energy costs.